Our Winemaker - Stephan Smit

Judging by the fact that we seldom see winemaker Stephan Smit as he’s always very hard at work in the cellar, we can vouch for Kumkani’s distinctive, carefully crafted wines. Having worked alongside well-respected Cape Winemakers Guild member Nicky Versfeld in the cellar for a number of years, Stephan is perfectly equipped to take over the winemaking role and carry on the proud Kumkani tradition.

Stephan completed a B.Sc Agric in Viticulture and Oenology at Stellenbosch University in 2000 and worked as an assistant winemaker at Franschhoek vineyards before graduating to senior winemaker, and then becoming an asset to both Welmoed and Kumkani in 2005.

We convinced Stephan to emerge from the cellar for a few seconds for a quick Q&A:

What does your job entail?

I manage the cellar and am also responsible for producing wines that align with the requirements of different target markets.

How would you describe your winemaking style?

First and foremost I want to ensure that every bottle of Kumkani over-delivers when it comes to value at its price point. It depends largely on the target market, but generally, I enjoy creating easy-drinking wines with good varietal fruit. I also prefer single varietals wines as opposed to blends.

What are your winemaking goals?

I’d love to manage a successful wine company and also achieve some accolades and awards along the way, although I must admit, I’m not too fussed about awards as long as consumers enjoy the product and the brand grows from strength to strength.

What’s the first thing you do once the harvest is complete?

I try to get away and spend some time with my wife.

What’s your favourite drink?

Sauvignon Blanc or Stella Artois

What do you drink when you are not drinking your own wines?

Probably a bottle of Hartenberg Chardonnay. To me this is the perfect example of balance. Oaking is subtle and varietal character is prominent. But then I truly enjoy our wines and drink these often with my family.

Which food and wine would you have for your “Last Supper”?

Definitely a good quality piece of steak with our Cabernet Sauvignon, decanted about 24 hours before it is paired with the steak.

If you were trying to impress someone, what wine would you open?

A bottle of Kumkani Cradle Hill as it is truly one of the best red wines ever.

 

Former winemaker Nicky Versfeld on the Kumkani range he helped to create.