Stretched beneath the Botmaskop foothills in the spectacular Jonkershoek Valley, Lanzerac boasts over 332 years of legacy evident in its graceful gables, elegant gardens and refined rooms.
Renowned as a premier producer of fine wines, its heritage is deeply rooted in the visionary stewardship of figures like Mrs English, who transformed it into one of the Cape’s most modern wineries in the early 20th century.
Her legacy lives on through Lanzerac’s Mrs English Chardonnay, harvested from a single vineyard and celebrated for its intricate flavours featuring a vibrant citrus aroma, a rich and elegant palate and a long-lasting finish.
Equally pivotal is Professor Abraham Izak Perold, revered for creating South Africa’s signature Pinotage grape. As the first Professor of Viticulture at Stellenbosch University, Prof Perold was determined to craft a wine that could withstand South Africa’s challenging climate, and so pinotage was born.
The beautiful amalgamation blends the tasteful complexity of pinot noir and the reliability and heartiness of cinsaut (Hermitage), resulting in a wine that reflects the essence of South Africa in every sip.
Lanzerac made history by branding their 1959 vintage as the world’s first commercially bottled pinotage. Lanzerac’s profound understanding of the Pinotage grape shines through in their 2022 vintage.
Delight in its juicy plum and rich chocolate notes, complemented by hints of sweet fennel liquorice. The wine’s terroir breezes through with the delicate fragrance of mountain fynbos, reminiscent of fresh rosemary.
The incredible journey of pinotage from its creation to its present status as a unique South African wine variety bears testament to the vigour inherent in winemaking.
Approaching its 100-year anniversary in 2025, wine connoisseurs, enthusiasts and admirers globally look forward to making Pinotage’s imminent centennial milestone with grand jubilations. As the saying goes, ‘In every drop of wine, there’s a drop of history.’
Pinotage, with every pour, unfurls a tale of struggle, resilience and triumph – a story that makes every toast momentous and makes the taste linger with a beautiful legacy.
Lanzerac’s commitment to sustainability is unwavering, setting a benchmark for responsible viticulture. Spanning 164 hectares dedicated to vineyards ranging from 160 to 500 metres above sea level.
Lanzerac implements innovative practices to ensure grape quality and environmental stewardship. Cover crops enhance soil health and prevent erosion, while precision soil management minimises environmental impact.
Integrated pest management and natural predator use reduce reliance on chemicals, exemplifying Lanzerac’s commitment to ecological balance.
Water conservation is paramount, with advanced irrigation techniques and future plans for soil moisture probes to optimise efficiency.
Lanzerac also prioritises native fynbos preservation and responsible alien species management. Waste is repurposed through organic composting, enriching vineyard soils sustainably.
Under Cellarmaster Wynand Lategan’s guidance, Lanzerac continues to craft globally celebrated wines. Each vintage embodies Lanzerac’s dedication to excellence, innovation and environmental responsibility.
As we raise our glasses to the astonishing legacy of Lanzerac and the enduring tale of Pinotage, let us honour the visionaries who paved the way and the custodians who preserve its traditions.
With every sip, Lanzerac’s exceptional range of wines reflects a commitment to excellence, celebrating a heritage as timeless as the Jonkershoek Valley itself.
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Picture: Supplied
