Viticulture and Oenology – Interview With Andiswa Mapheleba

Wine isn’t just made, it’s crafted by the unwavering expertise of a Winemaker, sometimes old traditions are passed down by generations and on other occasions, new people venture into the industry, introducing us to new creations, this series of Winemaker Interviews will help you uncover the vast world and skills of how the artists passionate about wine make the world a bubbly place.

In this feature we speak with Andiswa Mapheleba, an amazing Winemaker from West Cape, South Africa, let’s discover a little about his time in the English Wine Industry.

It’s Lovely To Speak With You, Andiswa, Tell Us About Yourself

“I am a South African winemaker, with a focus more in Cap Classique. I have worked for companies such as Distell and DGB (Pty) Ltd, making wines for brands such as Pongracz and Boshcendal Cap Classiques respectively. Outside of winemaking, I am a person who enjoys learning and sharing new topics, personally and professionally. Be it a TEDtalk or a funny Tiktok video, I’m interested. Being physically active is very important to me. I am the happiest when I am running.”

How Did You Become Involved In The Wine Industry?

“I grew up in a part of South Africa where winemaking was not popular and was introduced to the craft in my 12th grade year. I was drawn to the idea of combining science and biology. So, I decided to pursue a career in it and enrolled for a BSc Agric. Viticulture and at Stellenbosch University. Towards the end of my final year, I realised that there is so much to wine industry that needed to be explored. I then proceeded with an MSc in Wine Biotechnology, where I specialised in wine sensory research. Thereafter, I started my journey in winemaking and started making Cap Classique.”

For Anyone Thinking About Studying Oenology And Venturing Into The Wine Industry, What Advice Would You Give Them?

“My advice would be that they should always work and study passionately. Winemaking requires a lot of determination and eagerness towards the science and learning practices and procedures. The more effort, attention to detail and consistency you give your wine, the more it gives back. And that is the most rewarding part, for me at least. When making wine, no person is an island, it is a team sport and as a leader / member, one has to be dedicated to transferring the knowledge to teammates or colleagues, and consumers when performing marketing duties. This is all possible with passion and dedication.”

As A Winemaker, What Has Been Your Hardest Obstacle To Overcome In Producing Cap Classique?

“Cap Classique is a different arena. It is the craft that requires the most attention to detail. And, as such, when it gets the required tender, love and care, it gives back tenfold! Personally, the hardest obstacle is the bottling process, where there are so many components (mother-tank, tirage, yeast counts, temperature, consistency of bottling tank, etc) that need control prior and during the process. However, if these elements are all kept in check, thats a recipe for success and really delicious bubbles!”

How Do You Determine When Your Cap Classique Sparkling Wine Is Ready To Drink?

“This is a combination of bottle ageing time, the bubble consistency and persistence, acidity and others. Furthermore, one has to determine what product category the wine will be destined (Non-vintage or vintage). Since a non-vintage will be aged for a shorter amount of time (min. 12 months), it will ideally not have “aged” attributes, it will be perceived livelier and easier-drinking. As a result of the longer time on lees, vintage Cap Classiques have more complexity that will complement the acidity.”

What Part Of The Wine Making Process Do You Enjoy The Most?

“I love engaing with my senses, so the best time for me is blending. A time where you, as a winemaker, can reflect on the process (from harvesting to the present), getting to know how each of your blending components interact with the other and finding the best home for it. It’s a real art!”

How Do You See The Future Of The South African Sparkling Wine Industry?

“As my passions are not only in wine production, I aim on being involved in research, new product development to be exact. September 2022, was my final month as a winemaker, in hopes of being involved in various projects in the South African and global wine industry.”

Where’s The Most Memorable Place You’ve Enjoyed A Glass of Bubbly?

“I cherish moments that I spend with loved ones the most. Among many, my most recent memory was when a friend surprised us with a sunset drive on Chapman’s Peak, Cape town, where she had packed a lovely picnic basket with treats and delicious Cap Classique for us to indulge in. Bubbles taste the best when enjoyed with the ones you love.”

Thank you Andiswa, for sharing your words, knowledge and experience with us and we at Glass of Bubbly wish you the very best for the future!