The chance to work with “bubbles” under the tutelage of Pieter Ferreira was the driving interest behind Pierre de Klerk’s decision to apply at Graham Beck Wines for the position of Winemaker, Robertson: that, he says, and the flagship Robertson Syrah. Having started with the close-knit team on Monday 4 October, Pierre is effusive about the time he’s spent in the vineyards and cellar so far.
“Bubbles are by far my favourite white wine – and I can’t possibly be in a better place than this,” Pierre says. “Syrah is my choice of red and the way it’s done here speaks volumes about the terroir and the style of winemaking.”
Pierre’s extensive experience in the Napa Valley and Rhône, and with local cellars of the highest calibre, recommend him highly to the Graham Beck team. Coupled with this is his strong belief in seeking premium quality – which he feels can best be achieved by continual benchmarking.
“The best wine to me is the one that shows such balance that you can’t pinpoint the influence of any one thing. Tannins that are perfectly ripe and don’t overpower the fruit; and each component of the wine in perfect harmony - this is the benchmark that I always seek to achieve.”
Born and raised in Stellenbosch, Pierre began his career with a Bachelor of Science in Viticulture and Oenology. His first harvests were with Rust en Vrede and Chateau de Panery in the Rhône Valley in 2004; followed by Haskell Vineyards, Ernie Els and Duckhorn Vineyards in Napa Valley in 2005; and finally Zevenwacht Wines later the same year, where he remained until his appointment at Graham Beck Wines.
Pierre’s new role will involve operational work with the Graham Beck Robertson still wines, and Méthode Cap Classique. His appointment completes a three-strong team that includes Cellar Master Pieter Ferreira, and Graham Beck Franschhoek Winemaker Erika Obermeyer.
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