ADVERTORIAL | ANTHONIJ RUPERT
n o i t a r b e cel
‘WINE IS A IN ITSELF’ We sit down with Anthonij Rupert’s head winemaker, DAWIE BOTHA
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A WINEMAKER? It’s a great joy (and responsibility) to harness the very best from nature by picking grapes at their optimal ripeness. That, and, of course, bringing truly enjoyable wines to our customers. WHAT SETS ANTHONIJ RUPERT WINES APART? Anthonij Rupert has some of the best sites to work within the Cape winelands. It’s these sites, as well as the attention to detail with which we manage them, that adds a definitive quality and value across all our brands WHAT’S ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING PARTS OF YOUR JOB? One of the most interesting and impactful parts of my job is the decisions we make in the cellar. It’s these important decisions that all add up to the wine’s final style and quality. It’s the small differences that can have the biggest impact. DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE FOOD AND WINE PAIRING? Karoo lamb on the braai and a glass of Optima. Add a couple of good friends and you’ll have a magical combination. WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS ANTHONIJ RUPERT WINES APART FROM OTHER PRODUCERS? We have an ongoing commitment to continuous improvement. And, I see how everyone shows this commitment in their actions—from the vineyard to the cellar. There is no such thing as ‘good enough.’ 3 2
SOUTH AFRICAN CONNOISSEUR
Anthonij Rupert.indd 32
2020/11/19 15:35