Jacques Viljoen
Boschendal’s new winemaker, Jacques Viljoen

Iconic wine estate Boschendal has added another exceptional member to its innovative, award-winning winemaking team. Jacques Viljoen will take up the position of Cellar Master on the estate from 1 August 2018 and will bring with him a deep passion for the art of wine-making as well as experience on estates and in regions the world over.

With 16 years of experience as winemaker at Zevenwacht, Viljoen is an expert in staying true to terroir and the fruit to produce superlative vintages. He believes in mastering the basics but also adds an extra ‘x-factor’ to elevate wines to something special. He will work closely with Lizelle Gerber who looks after the white wines and famous Boschendal sparkling wines (MCC) and Stephan Joubert, the new Group Winemaker for Boschendal, to ensure the integrity of the Boschendal style of winemaking is retained.

A regular awards recipient at the International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) and Decanter Awards, Viljoen most recently won Gold for his Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz at the IWSC – but he has also been awarded for almost every varietal he has produced before.

Jacques has worked with winemakers in three famed French wine regions Côte de Beaune; Côte de Nuits; numerous estates in Northern Rhone; the Left and Right banks of Bordeaux; and the Chenin Blanc hot spot of Vouvray. This French influence is evident in his classic approach to winemaking.

Stephan Joubert says he has long admired Viljoen’s winemaking and is excited to work with him, “Jacques is one of South Africa’s preemi8nent winemakers. He has extensive experience, an exceptional palate and a gift for doing the right things at the right time in the cellar to produce top quality wines. He is a big fan of our wines and very familiar with the Boschendal winemaking style. Our wine enthusiasts can rest easy knowing their favourites are in capable hands.”

Shirley van Wyk, Boschendal Marketing Manager, says, “We’re thrilled to welcome Jacques to the team. He’s known for his dedication and leadership skills and has a reputation for getting consistently excellent results. He’s at the top of his game, and we’re excited to see what he’ll bring to our team.” For more information on Viljoen’s appointment and Boschendal’s winemaking heritage, visit Boschendal.co.za.