At Alto Wine Estate, our wines are shaped not only by the soils of the Helderberg, but by the people who craft them. We are proud to introduce our new Assistant Winemaker, Jean-Louis Strydom, whose journey, passion, and global experience will bring great value to our cellar team. 

Jean-Louis studied at Elsenburg and after doing a few local harvests he headed overseas and worked in four different countries to grow his knowledge and refine his craft.

He started off in Portugal and although never properly learnt the language he developed a deep respect for tradition and learnt a lot about old-school winemaking practices.

Argentina taught him that great wine doesn’t rely on elaborate tools, sometimes restraint and simplicity allow the fruit to shine.

In the United States, he embraced the role of technology in enhancing precision and efficiency in the cellar. And in New Zealand, he gained a profound appreciation for terroir, witnessing firsthand how pure, defined fruit expression can reflect a place so clearly.

Each chapter has shaped a philosophy grounded in balance, honouring tradition while embracing innovation.

His favourite variety to work with is Cabernet Sauvignon and there is no better place to work with it than the Helderberg. As Jean-Louis says

“I love the versatility of Cabernet and how you can play around with clonal selection and different fruit profiles. It is a variety that gives depth, structure and serious ageability but at the same time it’s an incredible blending component adding backbone and elegance to a wine. For me when Cabernet is done right, there is nothing better!”

Winemaking has always felt like a natural path. With both parents being winemakers, Jean-Louis grew up in a cellar environment and knew from an early age that his “office” would one day be vineyards, soil and mountains. He loves working with his hands and being fully immersed in the process. Winemaking offers exactly that; it gives him the space to be creative but also hands-on and practical. It is science, instinct and art all rolled into one and that balance perfectly fits Jean-Louis.

When he is not in the vineyard or cellar, you’ll likely find him outdoors, cycling, kitesurfing or playing golf. He also loves being in the kitchen experimenting with flavours and letting his creative side come alive.

As Assistant Winemaker at Alto Wine Estate, Jean-Louis is most excited about being part of a collaborative team and working with Helderberg fruit in a slightly different style.

Equally meaningful is becoming part of Alto’s tradition and legacy and being a part of it is something that he is already very proud of.

Lastly, when asked about his favourite Alto wine, the Alto Estate stands out. Elegant and beautifully balanced, it is a wine that pairs effortlessly with a wide range of dishes, a true reflection of the estate’s character and craftsmanship.

We are excited to welcome Jean-Louis to the team and look forward to many successful vintages together.