We’re big on new friends and family here at Le Lude, especially when they’re serious about bubbly, which is why we’re very proud to announce a recent addition to the flock! Introducing Emma Bruwer, our new assistant winemaker…
Born and raised in Robertson, which is ironically some of the best terroir for Cap Classique production and where we source a fair amount of our grapes from, we sat down with her for a quick Q&A session over a tasty cappuccino in our Orangerie Restaurant.
LL: So Emma, tell us a little bit about yourself and the road you’ve walked to get where you are now…
EB: Well, I grew up on a wine farm and my family is in the industry, so I always knew it was something I wanted to pursue. I love being outside, so farm life comes naturally. (Apart from being a passionate winemakers, Emma is also an avid horse rider – her horse is called “Echo of Thunder”) Obviously there was a fair amount of things to do and learn on the way to where I am today, starting with a BSc in Winemaking at the University of Stellenbosch which really drilled in the facets of winemaking most consumers don’t know about – a complex and beautiful blend of chemistry, geology, oenology and viticulture. I followed this up with a few harvests as winery assistant and intern, both here in South Africa and overseas, before settling into my position at Le Lude, which I’m really excited about!
LL: You say you’ve worked a few harvest both locally and abroad, tell us a little bit about your experiences…
EB: Yes. I think, as a winemaker, it’s important to study different terroirs, cultivars, perspectives and approaches throughout your career, but especially when you’re starting out. I’ve had the privilege to work local harvests at both Jordan and Le Lude, and have also worked harvests in California and New Zealand (pictured). Apart from enjoying the massive amount of learning experiences I gathered along the way, I definitely made the most of the traveling and beautiful places it took me.
LL: So, you have actually done a harvest at Le Lude before, what prompted you to come back?
EB: Funny story, I never thought I’d get into bubbly – but like I said, it’s important to gather diverse perspectives along the way. I was fortunate enough to work for Le Lude, and with Paul Gerber, in the 2015 harvest and something just clicked. It might be because I get to work both in the vineyard and the winery, it might be Paul’s meticulous attention to detail and wise mentorship, or possibly it comes down to the precision that goes hand in hand with the production of premium Cap Classique? I don’t know, but I’m pretty sure it’s a combination of all of them. Along with the beauty of the estate itself and a delicious cappuccino from time to time *laughs*
LL: Future plans?
EB: Learn as much as I can! As I mentioned before, I think Le Lude’s approach offers me the opportunity to take my learnings all the way from the vineyard to the final product – something I regards as very valuable. I really want to take my time to explore the bubbly side of myself too. Making MCC is a very precise process, with each facet of it contributing to the detail in nuances, complexity and delicacy of the finished product. Studying this process under Paul’s guidance really is an experience in its own right and something I feel will greatly contribute to my future as a winemaker…
And there you have it folks – bright eyed, bushy tailed and excited for the future. We look forward to seeing where Emma’s road takes her here at Le Lude, and the contribution she’ll make (read: is already making). May our #SearchforSingularity continue from strength to strength and may a healthy dose of beautiful bubbles pave the way!
Until next time…