We recently expanded our cellar team with the addition of Lené Visagie as our Assistant Winemaker. We are excited to welcome her to the team and look forward to many wonderful harvests together. 

We sat down with Lené Visagie to learn more about why she became a winemaker, what she is most looking forward to and a bit more about herself. 

Tell us a bit about yourself and your previous experience?  

I was born in Kimberly, in the Northern Cape but grew up in Malmesbury. Both of my parents grew up on farms, so my love for agriculture was nurtured during holidays spent in the countryside surrounded by nature. As both of them being ‘old Maties’ it was clear that I was also going to attend Stellenbosch University,  and choosing BSc Viticulture and Oenology felt like a natural decision. 

During my University breaks I gained firsthand experience in the wine industry by working at various places near Malmesbury. I started at Saronsberg Cellar in Tulbagh and the following year worked at AA Badenhorst in the Swartland, where I was inspired by their old-school methods of winemaking.

I completed my formal University internship at Tokara Wine Estate in Stellenbosch during 2022, the same year I graduated. In 2023, I spent a year in the beautiful Cederberg mountains at Cederberg Private Cellars, which also afforded me the opportunity to complete an international harvest in the Northern Rhône valley, France.

Which is your favourite variety to work with and why?

My favourite variety to work with is definitely Shiraz.

What I love about making Shiraz is its versatility and the opportunity to experiment with different vinification styles. The old-world and new-world styles of Shiraz are truly fascinating to me and inspire me to experiment with different approaches in the cellar.

Having worked in wine regions such as the Cederberg and Northern Rhône Valley in France, I have learned to cultivate and cherish this variety.  The bold, robust flavour profile complemented by spicy- and peppery notes are something my palate absolutely adores.

Your Favourite Alto wine?

I would definitely say the Estate Blend. This flagship wine showcases the farm’s three main varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Cabernet Franc. It epitomizes the Helderberg terroir of excellence, legacy of Alto and the top wine growing region that I get to experience every day.

The meticulous selection of the finest grapes during the harvest season to craft a wine that captures Alto’s distinctive terroir, vividly illustrates the culmination of centuries of hard work on the farm that is reflected in every bottle of the Estate Blend.

You favourite dish at the Also restaurant?

Without a doubt, the Alto Rouge burger is my go-to, especially when my lunchbox doesn’t survive past breakfast. Pairing this burger with a glass of Alto Rouge consistently exceeds my expectations every time (obviously after work hours!) I often sneak into the kitchen to grab some leftover delights from Chef Matthew, who never disappoints.

If you are not in the cellar, where would you most likely be? Any interesting hobbies?

I have a restless habit of always needing to be on the move. I am constantly seeking activities that allow me to connect with nature, whether it’s hiking, playing tennis or taking long walks. My weekends are filled with good company, enjoying a braai and often spending Sundays in the Garden – with a glass of Alto Rosé, of course! I also make the most out of my free time educating myself and recently started taking French classes.

What made you want to become a winemaker?

Becoming a winemaker is more than a career choice for me; it’s a lifestyle choice.

Winemaking is a beautiful profession where science converges with nature and art. Experiencing different wine regions reveals how family traditions, cultural heritage, and terroir comes together to create a product that speaks for itself.

I have a deep-rooted appreciation for taking the time to cultivate something others can enjoy. The most important aspect of winemaking is how a bottle of wine can bring people together, creating a beautiful shared experience.

What are you most looking forward to as the Assistant Winemaker at Alto?

Once you find yourself in such an exceptional terroir, everything else naturally aligns. I am excited to work with Bertho, a winemaker who I look up to with a rich legacy.

After completing a harvest at Alto, I am eager to step into a role that offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. I look forward to bringing a female perspective into the cellar and contributing to the creation of exceptional red wines that honour the legacy and tradition of Alto.