This week we kick off our series introducing our new exciting selection of producers with Vriesenhof – a range of wines from South Africa that we are delighted to have been able to bring to Scotland.
Winemaker Jan Boland Coetzee is revered in South Africa for his success in two very different careers. He is a rugby legend, having played for the Springboks against the British Lions in 1974 among many other highlights in a sparkling career.
However simultaneously, Jan was building a reputation on the South African wine scene. Having graduated in oenology and viticulture from the University of Stellenbosch, he learned his trade under the tutelage of various winemakers before acquiring the Vriesenhof estate in 1980.
Since that point, his reputation for producing complex, well-structured wines that speak for their unique terroirs has grown exponentially. From his hilltop vineyards that sit above False Bay, Jan cultivates rugged Pinotage bush vines, along with Merlot, Cabernet and Pinot Noir – a varietal which he fell in love with during time spent in Burgundy.
Alongside the strides he has made in the wine world, Jan is also respected for his contribution to the social situation of his vineyard staff. He has developed various projects with his team that now include new housing schemes close to his vineyards along with the construction of local sports facilities.
We are delighted to be working with Jan and we hope you have the opportunity to try his wines soon!