Importer's Corner 2023 Villiera Down to Earth White, Stellenbosch, South Africa

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Although essentially dry, the wine has a touch of sweetness on the palate with a hint of passion fruit and gooseberries from the Sauvignon Blanc. The Semillon contributes the more herbaceous, grassy character as well as complexity to the palate. It also contributes to the balance and makes you reach for another glass.

63% Sauvignon Blanc and 32% Sémillon

Villiera, estate owned and operated in Stellenbosch, South Africa by the the Grier family, is into its fourth generation as a family business. 

Cousins Jeff and Simon Grier started the family-owned Villiera Wines outside Stellenbosch in 1983 and embarked on an extensive replanting of classic and local varietals.

Cathy Brewer (née Grier) later joined the family team to head up the sales, marketing and export divisions. 

Winemaker Nathan Valentine (with Jeff Grier in consultation and assisted by Chloe Hooker) craft a range of wines characterized by a strong reflection of Villiera’s unique terroir and the retention of the distinct aromas and flavors of the different varietals from their vineyards  Natural winemaking is utilized, including spontaneous fermentation for all still wines.  Amphora have been introduced instead of, or in addition to oak, in some cases.

The Griers have been pioneers in the Cap Classique category and their innovative approach has been evident in other categories as well as in their business. The cellar is IPW certified and HACCP accredited and all Villiera wines are vegan friendly.

As members of the Biodiversity of Wine Initiative, the Grier family is committed to environmental preservation. Farming methods are environmentally friendly, including natural pest control methods (e.g., ducks, not insecticide). Natural resource consumption is also sustainable, with initiatives including a solar power facility, a wildlife preserve, water conservation and recycling programs, and greening projects to reduce the winery’s carbon footprint. A wildlife sanctuary on the farm shows visitors the extent of the efforts the Grier family has made to preserve local wildlife.

Villiera also cares for its workers and neighbors. The farm is accredited by The Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trading Association (WIETA) and BEE Empowered Certification. It also participates in the Pebbles Project, which provides education for disadvantaged children in the winelands.