Gyles Webb: A Humble Pioneer of the Wine World

The recently published South Africa Special Report by Tim Atkin MW emphasizes an essential theme: the humblest winemakers, working behind the scenes, are often the most capable, driven by pure passion. Gyles Webb, the founder of Thelema and a pioneer among winemakers in the 1990s, reflects this humility despite his impressive achievements. His son Thomas says, “Gyles is first a farmer and then a winemaker... Gyles is the artist.”

From Stellenbosch to the Gentle Breeze of Elgin

As part of her Elgin Living Legend series, Christine Lundy wanted to invoke curiosity about why such an esteemed brand like Thelema also operates in Elgin. During her meeting with Gyles, she discovered she had only scratched the surface of his story. In the vineyards, his passion and connection to the earth were revealed, which wasn't as clear in the formal interview. A follow-up conversation with Thomas showcased their enthusiasm for his father’s work.

The First Sip of Wine

Thomas offered a wonderful definition of wine: "Wine is unique and beautiful—perfect in its imperfection." Gyles' career as an accountant took an unexpected twist when he discovered his first foreign wine—the golden nectar of Puligny-Montrachet. This experience sparked his passion for wine.

In the early 70s, quality dry white wines were rare in South Africa. Gyles combined his accounting studies with a wealth of knowledge in Stellenbosch, where he bought and tasted wines. The favorable exchange rate allowed him to taste a variety of wines. Thomas explains that Gyles' dedication to learning is key to his success.

An Insatiable Curiosity

Gyles' relentless curiosity drives him. When something interests him, he is all in. As Thomas aptly puts it, "When you catch him in the right situation, he shines." This dedication extends beyond winemaking.

Pioneering Work in the Wine World

Gyles expanded his knowledge of international wines and became a passionate collector. His generosity towards the next generation of winemakers is legendary—he shares his wines with them so they can appreciate rare wines that are becoming difficult to find.

Wine as Art from the Vineyard

“Wine is made in the vineyard,” they often say, and that is the philosophy at Thelema and Sutherland. However, not everyone acknowledges this. They dreamed early on of owning their own winery. Thus, they acquired Thelema and built one of the best wineries in Stellenbosch in the 1990s.

Cool Climate and Its Fruit

Gyles' passion for cool climate wines led him to Sutherland in Elgin, a former apple farm, in 2002. For Gyles, growing his own grapes was non-negotiable. He engages intensely with farming and experiments. His method, which Thomas describes as "benign neglect," is grounded in common sense.

The Unique Style of Thelema and Sutherland

Gyles’ wines are not made for critics. They reflect the specific characteristics of their origins and are tailored to his palate. These wines aim to preserve their character.

By 1994, Thelema was one of the first South African wineries to gain international recognition. Gyles' philosophy has never been driven by trends, but by creating “critically interesting” wines.

A Comparison with Eben Sadie

Similarities between Gyles and Eben Sadie are unmistakable. Gyles gave Eben one of his first jobs in the wine industry, marking the beginning of Eben’s career. Both men are philosophical, well-educated, and do not tolerate nonsense.

(a tribute by Christine Lundy)