In February, the news broke that the Stellenbosch wine farm, Spier’s Cellar Master, Johan Jordaan has been named Chenin Blanc Master Winemaker at the Master Winemaker 100 awards in Paris. Not too long after, I sat down with him in the property’s newly launched Soil Room, talking about all things Chenin Blanc, growing up in the winelands and, well, Spier’s soil (and ultimately, also, it’s soul).

LISTEN TO THE FULL PODCAST INTERVIEW HERE.

Chenin Blanc is a dynamic and versatile grape and Johan’s expert touch with this golden grape has now been recognised globally. This follows outstanding performances of three Spier Chenin Blancs in The Global Wine Masters competition: The Spier Good Natured Chenin Blanc 2023, the Spier 21 Gables Chenin Blanc 2022 and the Seaward Chenin Blanc 2023. The first two wines both earned Master gold medals, while the Seaward Chenin Blanc was awarded a silver.

Chenin Blanc was first planted in South African soils in the 17th century, with the earliest records dating back to 1655. Since then, it has become the most widely planted grape variety in the country.

READ: 5 Ways to Better Understand Cinsaut and Pinot Noir

Having grown up in the winelands, Johan says the flavours of these grapes and the elements of the soil are engrained in one’s being. Becoming a winemaker was the natural choice.

For him, good wine starts with good soil. “Our approach to Chenin Blanc, like everything we do at Spier, begins with caring for the land. These awards tell us we’re on the right path.” He says: “Chenin Blanc is a wine built in layers. While it’s a winemaker’s dream to work with, it also demands a hands-on approach and deep understanding of your vineyards. This recognition belongs to our entire team – from the people nurturing our soils to those crafting these wines in our cellar.” He adds that while recognition like this is deeply appreciated, their real reward comes from knowing people are enjoying the wines at their tables, creating memories and sharing stories of their own.

Here is the full interview with Johan Jordaan, Spier’s Cellar Master and now also globally recognised Chenin Blanc Master Winemaker:

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