Spier launches a new line of holistically farmed wines
Spier’s organic winemaker, Tania Kleintjes says: “I believe the winemaking process should involve as little interference as possible. The less we fiddle with nature, the better the results. When nature is in a good place, so is everything. Wine included.”
That is one of the reasons why Spier – a recognised WWF-SA Conservation Champion – is once again making waves. Yes, they’ve just launched a new line of wines called Good Natured. These wines – a Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Shiraz and Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon – arrive as Spier aims to reach a net zero carbon footprint by 2030.
Moreover, it took Spier seven patient years to get here, with the wine farm being organically certified in 2015. Since then, they have launched a few special ranges of organic wines, leading to some notable awards. Ultimately, it’s the launch of the Good Natured range that marks a milestone, though. It highlights Spier’s commitment to working with long-term partners in the Cape to increase organic sourcing.
What makes the Good Natured range so special?
Firstly, all these wines (two whites and two reds) are made from fruit that grows in organic vineyards. Hence, it’s free of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers.
Secondly, nature has been invited back into the vineyards. Ultimately, this encourages a diverse ecosystem of plants, insects and micro-organisms to thrive. In winter they plant oat, mustard and clover seeds as cover crops to germinate and add nutrition to the soil. Bees, bugs and birds come flocking, acting as pest control.
Then, when harvest time comes, the team handpicks the vines and return as much as possible back to the earth for composting or recycling.
What to expect of the Good Natured range
As a result of Spier’s 360-degree approach, the Good Natured wine range embodies the wine farm’s multifaceted regenerative philosophy. In fact, it serves as proof that regenerative viticulture can create vibrant, flavourful wines.
The vegan-friendly Good Natured wines could not have come at a better time – a time when producer and consumer philosophies on faring and wine production align. Consumers are becoming more aware of the ongoing effects of climate change, leading them to switch to organic wines. Evidently, as they do, they seek more variety, exceptional taste and affordability. We have yet to taste it, but they say that Spier’s new range tick all these boxes. Plus, the wines include leading local and international ethical certifications (including WIETA and amfori BSCI).
Taste for yourself
Of course, this calls for celebration and what better way to celebrate than by visiting Spier’s tasting room and doing a tasting yourself? The Spier Tasting Room has just officially launched an organic wine tasting. Therefore, between 1 September and 31 October, you can enjoy four delicious, freshly prepared vegetarian bites paired with four organic wines, including the new Good Natured Organic Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon. Bookings are essential.