Ricardo Cloete, a passionate winemaker, was drawn into the world of winemaking during his final school years. He was captivated by the process from vineyard to glass. “I am especially intrigued by the concept of grapes telling a story, from the vineyards to the science behind crafting a wine that people will still enjoy ten years down the line,” shares Cloete.

His journey has been shaped by pivotal experiences and mentorships, notably with Abrie Beeslaar (Kanonkop), Charles Hopkins (De Grendel), and David Finlayson (Edgebaston Family Vineyards) through the Cape Winemakers Guild’s protégé program. Each mentor imparted valuable aspects of winemaking, instilling in Cloete the core principles and values of top-quality winemaking.

In striking a balance between tradition and innovation, Cloete emphasises the effectiveness of traditional methods while remaining open to new ideas and small-scale experimentation i.e. the use of large 2500l foudres or clay amphorae. 

Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc are Cloete’s favoured grape varietals, thanks to their versatility and complexity. Cloete provides insight on his decision, “These grapes deliver a vast variety of fruit profiles to work with, depending on the site and time of harvesting. You also have the option between wooded and unwooded for more complexity.”

The recognition that Bellingham’s Old Vine Chenin Blanc receives at tastings speaks volumes regarding Cloete’s ability and dedication as a winemaker. People come specifically to enjoy this wine, attesting to its quality and the reputation it has earned in the wine community.

Cloete is still on the journey to achieving his goal of creating the perfect wine, one that will garner 100 points in the near future. There is no doubt that he will go on to achieve this, and many more incredible feats in the decades to come.