So farewell to the ‘enfant terrible’ - Andre‘s departure marks a real changing of the guard - he has really been a massive brooding presence in the Stellenbosch scene, at least in terms of perceptions from our side of the equator. it is not in doubt that he has improved the viticulture, ripping out vines infected with leaf roll virus, so it is likely that we will only really appreciate his contribution in 5-10 years time. If you took advantage of the offers from TWS from the 2015 vintage onwards you will probably have a fun journey. His riposte to the Swartland Revolution was done in episode 7 of Richard Kelly’s Liberator series - worth the Google search!
His replacement, Luke is a great choice. His time at Glenelly working for Lady May de Lencquesaing previousky the owner of Pichon de Longueville has given him an appreciation for Cabernet Sauvignon, albeit the Simonsberg expression - the world of Rustenberg and Thelema. The meticulous attention to detail in the cellar design will be second nature after Glenelly and he will bring a less abrasive but no less accomplished style. His choice of cellar dog, a golden retriever might suggest a character eager to please the owner, which is perhaps what he will need to guard against being over zealous however I think he will show himself a very capable steward of the Vergelegen heritage.
