My father, the patriarch of our family and a man of outstanding courage and humbleness reached another birthday landmark as an octogenarian. Our family was there to celebrate. Food and wine, two of the great loves of our family, were in attendance too.
I owe much of my maturity to my father. I have many recollections of his incredible ability to do the right thing. Not a day goes by that I don’t measure myself up to him and ask myself how would my dad have dealt with this situation?
I have noticed that in life, as in wine, maturity is an invaluable trait. Some people never mature probably because they never had a hero as a benchmark. It is for this reason that I love to relate stories of my father’s actions to my kids in the hope that they too will learn something from this great man.
Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe – another great man
In the realm of fine wines, certain names stand out not just for their maturity but also for the stories they carry. Alvi’s Drift Wine Estate is one such name, steeped in history, tradition, and the pioneering spirit of its founder, Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe.
In any family business, the role of a strong patriarch cannot be overstated. Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe, affectionately known as Alvi, epitomized this role. His vision and determination laid the foundation for Alvi’s Drift Wine Estate, situated on the banks of the Breede River south of the town of Worcester, Western Cape, South Africa.
The History of Alvi’s Drift Wine Estate
In 1928, Alvi embarked on a journey to establish a wine farm in an area ripe with potential. His foresight led him to the picturesque banks of the Breede River. To facilitate access to the farm, Alvi constructed a bridge across the river, which soon became known as Alvi’s Drift. This bridge not only provided physical passage but also symbolized the connection between tradition and progress, a theme echoed in the wines produced by the estate.
Albertus Viljoen’s impact extended far beyond the vineyards. His commitment to quality, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, laid the groundwork for a thriving wine estate that continues to flourish to this day.
Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc 2021
The day of my dad’s birthday was bright and hot – a typical summers day in the hills above Durban and a perfect day for a crisp and fresh white wine.
Good food, as much a filial love, unites our family. We have chefs, both professional and amateur, who make these bonds very strong indeed. We had decided on salads, cold meats and fresh bread for lunch and I was responsible for choosing a complementary wine.
The decision was easy and it was the Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc 2021 that suited the occasion best of all. This delicious wine pays homage to its namesake, just as we were doing to my dad, while showcasing the unique characteristics of the Chenin Blanc grape.
Chenin Blanc, often referred to as the “queen of white grapes,” thrives in the diverse terroir of South Africa’s wine regions. Known for its versatility, Chenin Blanc produces wines ranging from crisp and refreshing to rich and complex.
In the case of Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc 2021, there is a harmonious blend of vibrant citrus notes, subtle floral aromas, and a refreshing acidity that tantalizes the palate. Its crisp finish makes it a perfect companion for leisurely afternoons with a light meal such as ours.
The accolades bestowed upon this wine—Great Gold at the 2022 International Wine & Spirits Awards and a prestigious top 100 SA Wines Winner—underscore its exceptional quality and distinction. Yet, beyond the awards, the wine embodies a legacy that traces back to its namesake, Alvi.
Great wines have the remarkable ability to enhance experiences and etch them into our consciousness. For our family and my amazing father that birthday with its laughter and comradery, was another wonderful memory for us all to cherish.
Awards received
- Top 10 & Platinum Certificate of Excellence in the South African Wine Index 2022
- Great Gold in the International Wine & Spirits Awards: Spain 2022
- Great Gold in the Catavinum World Wine & Spirits Competition: Spain 2023
- Top 10 & Platinum Certificate of Excellence in the South African Wine Index 2023
- Double Gold in the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge 2023
- Top 100 & Double Platinum Awards in the NWC & Top 100 2023
- Tim Atkins Report 90 Points 2023
- Gold in the Global Chenin Blanc Masters UK Challenge 2023
- 93 Points in the Platters Wine Award Competition 2024
Shop for Alvi’s Drift Wines
Order online by clicking here or visit the estate at Alfalfa Farm, Scherpenheuwel Road, Worcester or find them on Google Maps here. (please note they are not open for farm visits. They do have a small shop selling our wines during the week 9- 5pm but they don’t offer tastings).
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlvisDriftWines/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alvisdriftwine
