Franco Lourens has spent years in the industry learning and refining his craft. He is now assistant winemaker to Chris Alheit at Alheit vineyards.

With all this exposure to diverse winemaking methods and sought after vineyards, it was only natural that Franco wanted to set up his own venture – an idea Chris Alheit strongly encouraged and continues to support to this day.

The 2015 Lindi Carien Verdelho comes from a 21 year old block and is the oldest Verdelho block in South Africa. Franco made this wine so that he could make some extra money to buy his then fiancé an engagement ring. He therefore named his wine in honour of his now ever supporting wife Lindi Carien Lourens.

Lourens Family Wines Lindi Carien Verdelho 2015, WO Stellenbosch,13.5 Abv.

Tasting Note: This is another full, broad, big boned wine. More of a size 16 model than Kate Moss. Lush, fleshy, voluptuous, but texturally elegant. The nose speaks of dusty lemons, pineapple pastille fruits, crunchy yellow peaches and tart green apples. The flavours on the palate crash over your senses like a Jeffrey’s Bay right hand point break. You can feel the winemaker’s passion and intension in this wine, nothing is hidden. There are soft, cool acids backed up by layered, rich, fleshy white fruits, with a long, vibrant finish. An impressive wine, that demands a second glass. (Wine Safari Score: 91+/100 Greg Sherwood MW)