We recently sat down with our newly appointed farm manager and Viticulturist, Altus van Lill to learn more about his favourite varieties, why he became a viticulturist and more.  

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I grew up in Ceres and later moved to Rawsonville where I went to high school. Just after college, I started my agriculture journey at Deetlefs Wine Estate where I learnt more about Viticulture and Oenology before heading aboard to California where I worked and gained experience at Jordan Wine Estate. Over the past 10 years I have lived and worked in Stellenbosch and Durbanville.

My wife, Janette is a winemaker and we are excited to welcome our first daughter in April!

Which grape varieties are you most passionate about, and why?

My favourite grape is definitely Cabernet Sauvignon, its not called “The King of Red Grapes” for nothing. I love the rich history surrounding this noble grape and the fact that many of the world’s most notable wines are produced from Cabernet Sauvignon.

 What made you want to become a viticulturist?       

Growing up in the Boland and being surrounded by vineyards and wine farms inspired me to dive deeper and learn more about what goes into creating a bottle of wine.

 What are some of the innovative techniques or technologies you are exploring or using in your vineyard?

This year we have started spraying our young vines with drones. This helps to prevent soil compactions and reduces Alto’s carbon footprint.

What are your thoughts on the future of viticulture in the face of climate change?

Firstly, the vine is a very adaptable plant and by changing basic vineyard practices to help with climate change a vine will survive and even flourish. Also, if new varieties are introduced to established winegrowing areas, as with Bordeaux a few years ago, viticulture can have a sustainable future.

What is your Favourite Alto wine?

Without a doubt the Alto Cabernet Sauvignon.

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

You will find me on the rugby field or wandering through some antique shops with my wife.

What have you enjoyed most about your first harvest at Alto?

Experiencing the exceptional terroir on the estate, it is truly spectacular.

In your view what makes the vineyards at Alto so special for red wine production?   

The terroir makes all the difference. The location on the Northern slopes of the Helderberg, the cool breeze from false bay and of course the winemaker.

We look forward to many more successful harvests together and cant wait to taste the wines from the 2025 vintage!