Johan Jordaan of Spier Named Global Chenin Blanc Master

Winemakers often claim that all grape varieties are equal – but the truth is some are indeed “more equal” than others. Johan Jordaan of Spier is a true master of Chenin Blanc, and his skills have earned him global acclaim.

Jordaan was recently honored in Paris as the Chenin Blanc Master Winemaker. This accolade follows remarkable ratings for three wines from Spier in The Global Wine Masters competition, where the Spier Good Natured Chenin Blanc 2023 and Spier 21 Gables Chenin Blanc 2022 received the highest honor – Master Gold, while the Seaward Chenin Blanc 2023 secured Silver.

Mastery of South Africa's Tradition

This award elevates Spier and places it among the elite producers worldwide. Jordaan is now one of the few South African winemakers included in the Master Winemaker 100, joining the ranks of Bruce Jack (Bruce Jack Wines) and Daniela Jansen (Saronsberg Cellar).

This success carries special significance, as Chenin Blanc is South Africa’s white heritage grape. Cultivated in the Cape since the 17th century, with records dating back to 1655, it is now the most widely grown grape variety in the country, comprising 18.4% of the national vineyard area.

A Team Effort

“Chenin Blanc is a wine built in layers,” explains Jordaan. This varietal is a dream for winemakers but requires attention and understanding of the vineyards. “This recognition belongs to our entire team – from those nurturing the soil to those enhancing our wines in the cellar.”

The diversity and quality of Spier's Chenin Blancs impressed the jury of Masters of Wine and industry experts. “South African winemakers have perfected the use of oak with Chenin Blanc, creating wines where the oak enhances the aromas and showcases the finale,” noted the judges. The wines underwent strict blind tastings for objectivity.

The True Reward

This award builds on Spier’s 333-year tradition and confirms the winery's commitment to sustainable farming practices. “Good wine begins in the soil,” says Jordaan. “Our approach to Chenin Blanc, as with everything here, starts with caring for nature. These awards affirm we are on the right path.”

Now in its twelfth year, the Master Winemaker 100 is considered one of the most prestigious awards in the wine industry. Unlike traditional competitions, the Global Wine Masters Series employs a unique evaluation method where wines are blindly judged by a panel of Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and leading wine buyers based solely on quality and style, regardless of provenance or reputation.

To qualify for the Master Winemaker 100, producers must first achieve Master Medals in these rigorous competitions – a testament to consistent excellence.

Yet Johan Jordaan remains humble: “We truly appreciate this recognition, but the real reward lies in people enjoying our wines and creating their own memories.”