Well, the cat is out of the bag, and Lukas Van Loggerenberg is now well-known as one of the Cape’s hottest tickets. He does not own any vineyards but has charmed his way into some prime sites across Stellenbosch, Swartland and Paarl. Combining magical old vineyards that, in Lukas’ words, “give a real nervous energy” with a love for the cool climate regions of Europe; particularly the Loire Valley, it is not surprising that his young wines are some of the most electrifying in South Africa today. As a lover of acidity and lower alcohol levels Lukas is an early picker. Although based in Stellenbosch, “my harvest starts at the same time as the guys in the Swartland. But it goes way on! I like to blend different pickings and if the conditions are good then I leave a little bit to really benefit from extended hang time”. Lukas is perhaps most famous for his two dazzling Chenin Blancs; Kamaraderie and Trust Your Gut, and Breton – a fabulous Loire Valley inspired Cabernet Franc. Kamaraderie is a two hectare vineyard in Paarl planted in the 1960s, while Trust Your Gut is a blend of Stellenbosch, Swartland and Paarl fruit. He also works with Cinsault and Syrah and, unsurprisingly, these are some of the most refined examples around. And don’t miss his pale, Provence-style Rose!