Blaauwklippen winemaker Narina Cloete has been named Woman Winemaker of the Year at the 2025 LUMO Awards, highlighting her growing influence in South African wine.
Since 2016, Cloete has led Blaauwklippen Estate, crafting award-winning reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, as well as barrel-fermented Chardonnay. Her work blends science, creativity, and a love for Stellenbosch terroir.
In this exclusive Q&A, Blaauwklippen winemaker Narina Cloete shares wine tips, busts common myths, and reveals her favourites.
BLAAUWKLIPPEN WINEMAKER NARINA CLOETE: Q&A ON WINE TIPS, MYTHS, AND FAVOURITE GLASSES
What drew you into the world of winemaking?
Winemaking blends my interests in art, creativity, nature, biology, and chemistry, so it was a natural choice for me.
For South Africans intimidated by wine culture, what’s one tip for learning to appreciate a good glass?
Don’t be intimidated. Everyone can smell and taste. A good, balanced wine will show itself so that anyone, novice or experienced, can enjoy it. Train your nose by smelling different things in life and then looking for those scents in a glass of wine.
Are there any common wine myths you wish people would stop believing?
Not every allergic reaction to wine is caused by SO₂ (sulphites).
What makes Blaauwklippen wines stand out? Is there a varietal or blend that’s your personal signature?
Our Stellenbosch terroir allows us to craft excellent red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, as well as classy barrel-fermented Chardonnay.
What’s the best food-and-wine pairing you’ve ever had, and one anyone could try at home?
I once had a passionfruit dessert at a family-owned hotel in the Cotswolds (UK) with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. The flavours exploded in perfect harmony. At home, try pairing different chocolates with 3–5 wines with friends or family. It is a fun way to discover your own combinations.
What advice do you have for the next generation of wine lovers or winemakers?
Wine lovers: create experiences and memories around a glass of wine, and don’t be intimidated.
Aspiring winemakers: it’s a rewarding but challenging industry. Stay passionate and grow with every vintage.
Is there a wine region in South Africa that people are overlooking?
Elgin is an overlooked region worth exploring.
What’s always in your glass at the end of a long day?
Chardonnay or bubbly in summer, and Cabernet Sauvignon in winter.
FROM THE CELLAR TO THE SPOTLIGHT
Cloete has been head winemaker at Blaauwklippen since 2016, after gaining experience at Glen Carlou, Dornier, AA Badenhorst, and Stellenzicht, as well as senior roles at Quoin Rock. She has judged wines at the Veritas Awards, the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show, and Spain’s Zarcillo International Wine Competition, giving her a global perspective while deepening her love for South Africa’s terroir.
“Wine tells a story of people and place,” Cloete explains. “Every vineyard has its rhythm, and our job as winemakers is to listen to it.”
If you are ready to take your wine expertise to the next level, explore the culinary delights of South Africa’s wine country towns.
