Winemakers corner: Introducing our first female assistant winemaker, L’Ré Burger…

Monday, 7 March, 2016
Ernie Els Wines
Ernie Els Wines is pleased to introduce our new assistant winemaker, L’Re Burger. As an experience wine lover and global traveller, L’Ré brings a unique blend of passion and scientific knowledge to Ernie Els Wines.

Born and bred in Stellenbosch, L’Ré was exposed to the rhythm of the winelands from a young age. The hustle and bustle of the tractors during harvest time and the ever changing colour pallet of the vineyards sparked an interest in agriculture. The L’Ré decided to combine her love for science and agriculture by completing her BSc Oenology and Viticulture at Stellenbosch University in 2007. L’Ré furthered her studies and completed her MSc Wine Business at the prestigious Burgundy School of Business in Dijon, France.

L’Ré explains her winemaking philosophy as “Great wine reflects terroir, vintage and personality. It comes from a deep understanding of vineyard management, wine making techniques, and sustainable practices. In essence: old world philosophies with new world techniques.”

L’Ré has completed several harvests overseas, including harvests in California, Marlborough, Barossa Valley, Bordeaux and the Great Western in Australia. Locally, L’Ré has worked as assistant wine maker at De Morgenzon Wine Estate and Waterford Estate.

“I believe that it is an exciting time in the wine industry in South Africa. The industry is moving towards an origin-focussed methodology. We are showcasing the unique terroirs our country has to offer. It has always been my dream to make wine in the Helderberg. The rich Hutton-Clovelly soils and north sloping vineyards are the perfect building blocks for bold red wines” says L’Re.

Working closely with head winemaker, Louis Strydom, and viticulturist, Leander Koekemoer, L’Re will be involved in the wine making process from vine to bottle. L’Re will continue the Ernie Els Wines vision to be the leading Cabernet Sauvignon producer in South Africa but her fresh approach will bring exciting new elements.