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It was during the second world war, after Germany had invaded France and took possession of a large portion of their biggest asset – wine – that the allied forces, running dry, suddenly seemed to remember Napoleon’s saying that an army fights on wine. Plans had to be made for new supplies.
Inside the ‘ringmuur’ at Lelienfontein 17-year old Petrus Bosman – not having the advantage of modern day cooling – was struggling to keep fermentation temperatures under control. He also worried about his studies, as it was his final year at school. His father was in parliament, involved with important decisions about the war, and the farm became the responsibility of young Petrus.
Wine buyers from EK Green added to the anxiety by telling him that Lelienfontein could be expecting its best harvest ever. Luckily for Petrus, the wine buyers and the thirsty soldiers, the wines reflected the quality of the grapes. |
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Petrus’ love for the farm, the vineyards and the wines was born and outlived the war and the wine-shortage.
My inspiration stemmed from my grandfather’s romantic tales of vigorous wild yeasts and the challenges of foaming vats. Also of course from the special block of Cabernet Sauvignon, Kabinet, which had the potential to lift the quality of the whole harvest in a difficult vintage.
Today, 50 years after the last wine was made at Lelienfontein, I am fortunate to have running water under pressure and power and cooling in the cellar. The vineyards are bountiful and yield high quality grapes. We are fortunate and we are blessed and it is our new year’s wish that you will be able to share the end product with us.
May you, your family and friends enjoy a peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthful and prosperous new year! |
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