Crafting Wine in Your Mind: A Journey with Marc Kent

You won't believe how wine is born in the mind first! Join me as I dive into Marc Kent's philosophy on winemaking and what makes it so special.

The Philosophy Behind Winemaking

When it comes to winemaking, few can match the insights shared by Marc Kent of Boekenhoutskloof. During a recent tasting of The Journeyman 2022 vintage in London, he shared a profound philosophy that resonates with both wine enthusiasts and aspiring vintners alike: “You make the wine in your head before physically making the wine.” This guiding principle emphasizes not just the art but also the science behind crafting exceptional wines.

Kent’s approach reveals how each decision—from vineyard selection to bottling—acts as a thread woven into a larger tapestry of taste and experience. The meticulous nature of winemaking often goes unnoticed by casual drinkers, but for those passionate about every bottle, it’s an eye-opening revelation.

I remember my first experience at a wine tasting where the winemaker explained their process; it felt like peeling back layers to discover the heart and soul of each wine. Understanding that every bottle has a story starts with this foundational mindset.

Embracing Experimentation

For many years, South African wines were boxed into categories: traditional or bulk-focused, limiting creative exploration. Marc Kent stood against this notion early on, stating, “In the early 90s, we were buying fruit from all over the Western Cape.” His defiance against convention was driven by one goal—to obtain only the best possible fruit.

This belief led him through years of trials with blending and vinification techniques. Kent’s commitment to experimentation is reflected in his journey from 2002 onwards when he began to craft wines that truly represented his vision.

As I reflect on my own experiences trying different blends from various regions, I appreciate how experimentation can lead to remarkable discoveries—a sentiment echoed by Kent during our conversation.

The Meticulous Process of Creation

The technical precision in winemaking at Boekenhoutskloof is nothing short of inspiring. Grapes are hand-harvested into small lug boxes to ensure they arrive at the winery in pristine condition. Each bunch undergoes careful sorting and hand de-stemming—only the highest-quality berries get selected for fermentation. This level of detail mirrors my own cooking experiences where sourcing quality ingredients can make or break a dish.

Once sorted, skin fermentation takes place in French oak barriques sourced from Tonnellerie Sylvain—a cooperage known for enhancing structure without overshadowing a wine’s character. What really caught my attention was their OXOline system introduced by Kent back in 2002. This innovation allows barrels to be rotated 360 degrees without moving them—ensuring soft tannin extraction while preserving finesse during fermentation.

A Tasting Experience Like No Other

At the tasting event, Mocke provided detailed descriptions of various vintages that left everyone intrigued. For instance, he characterized the 2020 vintage with its “dark fruits galore” and hints of spice and coffee; it sounded utterly captivating! The textures described—smooth yet luxurious—are precisely what one hopes for when pouring a glass after a long day.

The contrast between different vintages was palpable; where some displayed angularity and structure from years past, others offered seamless sophistication—the evolution over two decades presented right before our eyes (and taste buds!). It’s moments like these that remind me why I love attending tastings—the palpable excitement surrounding shared discoveries.

Frequently Asked Questions about Winemaking

What’s unique about South African winemaking?

South African winemaking combines traditional techniques with innovative practices, often resulting in unique flavor profiles influenced by diverse terroirs across regions.

How important is grape selection?

Grape selection is crucial! It directly impacts the quality and characteristics of the final product—akin to choosing fresh herbs for your favorite recipe!

Why does aging matter?

Aging allows wines to develop complexity and depth over time, refining flavors much like letting a dish marinate enhances its taste.

How does blending influence flavor?

Blending different varietals can create harmony and balance within a wine; it’s akin to mixing spices for an ideal flavor profile.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

Marc Kent’s insights have opened my eyes wider to the world of winemaking—it’s about more than just grapes; it’s about vision, creativity, and passion interwoven into every sip we take. If you ever have the chance to explore such philosophies firsthand or attend tastings featuring exceptional wines like Journeyman, don’t hesitate! There’s always something new waiting to be discovered.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash