“It was Eikendal who first introduced me to the intrinsic aspects of quality vines and winemaking and today, after four years working here, I can truly say that I know every square inch of vineyard on the farm like the palm of my hand,” says Nico Grobler, the newly appointed winemaker at Eikendal.
After matriculating from Stellenbosch High School, Grobler followed his dream of becoming a winemaker and completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture (BSc Agric) specialising in Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Stellenbosch. During his studies, Grobler cut his winemaking teeth at Eikendal where he did his harvest practical and soon became a regular hand in both the vineyards and the cellar.
A talented winemaker in his own right, he has a clear idea about the style of wine that he likes to produce. For him winemaking is all about balance, resulting in refined wines of classic intensity, flavour and finesse.
“My first challenge is to consolidate the Eikendal range focusing only on those wines we are renowned for. I want to go back to basics, aiming for big Bordeaux-style reds that are bold in structure with opulent fruit and flavour whilst our streamlined white wine repertoire will be led by our wooded and unwooded Chardonnays,” explains Grobler.
Fostering the philosophy of 'quality wine is made in the vineyard' Grobler firmly believes that Eikendal is situated in the country's most premium pocket for producing exceptional Chardonnay with strong regional and varietal integrity, showcasing the best characteristics of the cultivar. In addition, Eikendal is positioned perfectly on the famed 'golden slopes' of South Africa's red wine production.
