WOMEN’S MONTH INTERVIEW: Junel van der Merwe: A Cape Wine Master’s Journey of Passion, Patience & Purpose
A Voice for Women in Wine
In the heart of South Africa’s wine country, Junel van der Merwe stands as one of the nation’s few Cape Wine Masters — a title earned through relentless dedication, an unyielding pursuit of excellence, and a deep love for the craft. As Global Ambassador for Alvi’s Drift, she has become a voice not only for the estate’s world-class wines but for the future of women in the industry.
For Junel, Women’s Month is more than a calendar celebration; it is a personal reflection and a professional call to action. “It’s a moment to honour the women who have inspired me, and a reminder to create space for others,” she shares. Her approach is grounded in the belief that passion and skill in wine are not defined by gender — and that by leading with generosity and mentorship, she can help clear the path for the next generation of women.
From Education to Marketing — and a New Calling
Her own career took an unexpected turn during her Cape Wine Masters studies. Initially rooted in wine education at the Cape Wine Academy, Junel was invited by Pieter de Waal of De Waal Wines to explore the world of marketing and sales. It was a leap into unfamiliar territory, but one that ignited a new side of her passion — storytelling through wine, building connections, and watching success take shape from the vineyard to the glass.
The Albertus Viljoen Icon Range — Excellence with Purpose
Today, that same philosophy is poured into the Albertus Viljoen Icon Range at Alvi’s Drift — a quiet yet powerful expression of the estate’s Scherpenheuwel terroir. Hand-picked from select vineyards, vinified and matured separately, and chosen from only the finest barrels, each wine reflects the land, heritage, and values of the estate. Beyond the vineyard, the range supports early childhood education on the farm through a partnership with the Indaba Institute — a testament to Junel’s belief that wine can change lives far beyond the cellar.
The Chenin Blanc That Almost Never Was
One of the most celebrated wines in this collection, the 2023 Chenin Blanc, recently earned Great Gold at the 2024 International Wine & Spirits Awards. Its story is one of chance and instinct: a vineyard once left untended, destined for uprooting, produced small berries of extraordinary flavour. Alvi decided to vinify the fruit separately, and the result was a wine of remarkable purity and intensity — proof that beauty often comes from the most unexpected beginnings.
Patience in the Barrel
Junel describes the winemaking process as an act of patience and instinct. Each barrel is nurtured throughout the year, tasted and assessed for balance, fruit purity, and ageing potential. “It’s like raising children,” she reflects. “They share the same origins, but each develops its own personality. You can guide them, but you cannot predict exactly who they will become. The wine tells you when it’s ready — never before.”
Wines that Speak Personality
Her favourite wine to share with the world? The Chenin Blanc 2023, ideally over a conversation with someone like Jancis Robinson, who could appreciate not only its craftsmanship but the story behind it. And the wine that most mirrors her own character? The Bismarck, a blend of seven varietals — vibrant, layered, and full of joy. “It’s bottled abundance,” she smiles. “Life should never be the same two days in a row.”
Words of Wisdom for Women in Wine
When asked what advice she’d give to young women entering the wine industry, Junel is clear: build your foundation. Commit to years of study, understand the demands of the work, and enter with both resilience and passion. “This industry was once almost entirely male,” she says. “Stand tall. Speak with confidence. You belong here.”
Life Beyond the Cellar
Beyond wine, Junel’s passions extend to birding, cooking, history, and travel — pursuits that, like winemaking, require curiosity, patience, and a deep connection to the world. But wine remains her true calling, a craft where she can pour all her energy into creating something both timeless and alive.
In every barrel, every vineyard, and every shared glass, Junel van der Merwe embodies the spirit of Women’s Month — not as a fleeting celebration, but as an ongoing journey of mentorship, excellence, and joy.
WIN with Alvi’s Drift this Women’s Month!
We’re celebrating the incredible women in our lives by giving away wine from the Albertus Viljoen Icon Range at Alvi’s Drift.
Here’s how to enter:
1️⃣ Follow us on IG: @theguide_online & @alvisdriftwine
2️⃣ Tag and tell us about the strong woman you’d like to honour this Women’s Month
3️⃣ Share this post to your story
Competition closes Monday, 25 August — don’t miss out!
