Wim Truter will join Meerlust in May 2020
Wim Truter

KWV announced that its chief winemaker, Wim Truter, will be leaving this wine and spirits company in May 2020. Truter will join Meerlust Estate as head of winemaking.

“It is very sad to lose a dedicated and highly respected member of the team,” said KWV CEO Boyce Lloyd. “Our only consolation is that Wim is moving on to a unique and coveted role in the South African wine industry. South Africa and KWV can only but benefit when iconic South African brands are rejuvenated and growing in stature.”

Truter joined KWV on 1 September 2016, and during his tenure, the KWV winemaking team has been presented with numerous local and international awards. Truter has also seen the introduction of new and exciting brands at KWV, amongst others, the newly relaunched Cathedral Cellar wines. His strategic mind proved an asset as valuable as his detailed winemaking skills.

Wim said: “It wasn’t an easy choice. I remain passionate about KWV and leave behind a formidable team and dedicated producers. Ultimately, my position at Meerlust will be of a more holistic nature, which determined my decision.”

Indicative of Truter’s character and dedication to KWV, he will only assume his new role at Meerlust post-harvest season on 1 May 2020.

KWV said that it would be announcing a new Chief Winemaker in due course.