A connoisseur of wine and words

It was the smart, educated, internationally attuned, young wine makers leading an intriguing and zainy revolution in the Cape that tickled Ballito wine writer, John Platter’s fingers to create his newest book, My Kind of Wine.

“These youngsters have been producing fresher wines with lower alcohol and less sulphur. Some of their wines are difficult to understand, but they are interesting,” said Platter, who launched South Africa’s first wine guide in 1979.

“Their attitude is so refreshing and informal. Some of them only own a bakkie, surfboard and a garage in which they make wine from grapes they buy. It is fascinating how they have taken the angst and snobbery out of wine.”

Platter said this book is not just about wine, although he did cover 250 of them.

“My wife, Erica and I met with and profiled about 70 winemakers. A winemaker’s personality is so important. We wanted to introduce the different characters making up this new wave.”

He said the activities of these revolutionaries have woken up established classics, making them rethink their old ways.

“I am really in favour of this development and it is lovely to see the regional rivalry develop as areas like Swartland and Hermanus are finding their niches. Swartland’s Chenin blends in particular are an international phenomenon.”

Another trend is to let nature take its course.

“Minimalist winemaking is the new term. It is all about not interfering with nature. I am not completely convinced about this one, as there are so many man-made decisions taken in the winemaking process.”

Following on this, Platter said they also believe the sight should speak and not just the taste.

“The idea behind sight is that you should visualise where the wine comes from, where the grapes are grown and the like.”

The trends are endless and with about 800 winemakers, producing 7000-8000 labels per year, the varieties are endless.

“There are simply too many wines. Of course not all of them make it, but they try.”

Meet the young guns of the wine industry and get the scoop on the revolutionary wines in Platter’s new book, available at local book stores.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join us on BBM at 59015786
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.