Lozärn Wines: Unearthing the Lost Child of Bordeaux in South Africa
In the fertile soils of the Breede River Valley, a vinous story spanning three continents comes alive. Lozärn Wines, handcrafted on Doornbosch Farm, pays tribute to a family matriarch while celebrating the vibrant Carménère grape variety—a red gem that evokes the rhythms of South American castanets and sambas. This captivating journey takes us from France to South America and finally to South Africa, where Lozärn Wines has emerged as the champion of this exceptional cultivar.
Carménère’s Resurgence
Originally one of the six red varieties used in Bordeaux blends, Carménère faded into obscurity after the phylloxera outbreak in the 19th century. However, in a twist of fate, this “Lost Child of Bordeaux” found its way to Chile, where it was mistakenly identified as Merlot until the late 20th century when studies confirmed its true identity. Inspired by a Chilean Carménère, winemaker Salóme Buys-Vermeulen planted the first Carménère vineyard in South Africa in 2014 on Doornbosch Farm.
A Single-Varietal Triumph
Lozärn Wines created history by producing the first single-varietal Carménère in South Africa. The estate’s maiden vintage, the Carménère 2016, was launched alongside a 100% Carménère Rosé in December 2017, with only 100 bottles available. Subsequently, Carménère 2017 saw a limited production of just 2000 bottles. This exclusivity combined with the grape’s challenging nature lends it a premium allure.
The Terroir of Success
Carménère’s journey to greatness is intertwined with the unique terroir of Doornbosch Farm in the Robertson region. Thriving in drier, warmer areas, the grape prefers soils that are not overly cool or water-retentive. Salóme explains that due to the limited availability of Carménère clones, the vineyards can’t be adjusted to specific soil types like other cultivars. Nonetheless, the winemaking team’s meticulous practices ensure an extended ripening season, resulting in a wine that dazzles the senses.
The Flavors of Enchantment
The Carménère 2017 from Lozärn Wines delights with an enchanting profile. Bursting with cherry and purple plum notes, it evolves into deeper fruit flavors of mulberries and blackcurrant, embraced by soft, fine tannins. But the magic doesn’t end there—wood contact imparts a delightful choc-mocha essence, adding to its allure.
Kay’s Legacy and Beyond
Lozärn Wines, named after the Swiss-German pronunciation of Lucerne, also pays homage to the family history of Doornbosch Farm. Kathleen May Smuts, fondly known as Kay, was the driving force behind the farm’s establishment. The estate’s Bordeaux-style red blend, “Kay’s Legacy,” is a fitting tribute to this remarkable woman.
Carménère Day, A Celebration of Unique Heritage
As Carménère Day approaches, Lozärn Wines invites South Africans to raise their glasses to this extraordinary grape variety and celebrate its journey from France to Chile and, finally, to its new home in South Africa. With every sip of Lozärn Carménère, wine enthusiasts partake in a vinous tale that traverses continents and embraces the spirit of exploration.
Lozärn Wines, rooted in the fertile soils of the Breede River Valley, shines as a testament to the success of Carménère in South Africa. Winemaker Salóme Buys-Vermeulen’s passion and dedication bring forth the captivating story of this unique grape variety. As Lozärn Wines crafts its premium Carménère offerings, it celebrates not only the wine but also the legacy of family and heritage. Through every bottle, the winery invites wine enthusiasts to join them in cherishing the vibrant flavors of Carménère and toasting its remarkable journey.