Q&A with Christo Basson, Nuy Winery Cellar Master
· 3 min read
Nuy Winery, which celebrated its 60th anniversary this year, welcomed Christo Basson as new cellar master in October. Christo is only the fourth cellar master in the winery’s history.
Christo Basson’s wine journey started in 2002 at DTK Wines in Rawsonville. In 2008, he joined the team at TCB Wines as winemaker and cellar master, where he spent over a decade perfecting his craft. In 2019, Basson took up the position as winemaker at Lutzville Vineyards in the West Coast region, where he earned several awards for his exceptional winemaking. His portfolio includes a diverse range of wines, from still white, red wines, natural sweet, fortified to sparkling, and organic wines. He holds qualifications in business management as well as from EKOV, Wine Training SA and the Cape Wine Academy.
How did your interest in winemaking develop?
My father had the most amazing wine collection. He was passionate about wines and its history and through his passion I gained interest.
How did your prior experience prepare you for the new role at Nuy?
I believe that everything in life happens for a reason and that your past prepares you for your future. The past 21 years in the wine industry was a very inspiring journey and I thrive to learn more.
What are your first priorities in the new role?
As the Cellar Master my focus will be to build on the good foundation that Nuy Winery has built over the past 60 years and by making sure the winery and its wines keeps on improving and take the winery with its producers to the next level. I am excited to see what we as a team can accomplish.
What excites you most about making wine in the Nuy Valley?
I grew up in Worcester – my roots are here. It is a very beautiful valley with an excellent terroir to make promising wines. I am looking forward to growing with this amazing team at Nuy Winery.
I know the region well but a lot changes in five years. I have some good friends to catch up with and then to get to know the new trends in the region.
What’s your favourite variety to work with?
I have always had a special fondness towards Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz on the red wine side.
VISIT NUY WINERY
Nuy Winery is a beloved stop along the R60 between Worcester and Robertson, welcoming visitors from Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00, and on weekends from 09:00 to 16:00.
For more information, visit nuywinery.co.za or contact AC Goodger at 023 347 0272 or via email at [email protected].
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