In the world of fine wine, the merging of expertise, passion, and terroir can yield remarkable results.
Oddo Vins et Domaines, a renowned French family wine company with investments in France and Italy, has embarked on a journey that exemplifies this synergy through their investment in Le Chant Wines in South Africa.
Covering 80 hectares of vineyards, Le Chant Wines has emerged as a producer of both red and white wines that are not only celebrated for their quality but also hold their own against the best in the world. Lorraine Oddo, President of Oddo Vins et Domaines, described the investment in Le Chant Wines as a natural extension of the family-owned company’s global commitment to excellence and innovation, as well as the distinctive Cape wineland terroir of Stellenbosch’s Polkadraai ward where Le Chant’s grapes are grown.
“Our decision to invest in Le Chant Wines was driven by the unique opportunity to blend our French winemaking heritage with the dynamic and diverse terroir of South Africa,” said Lorraine. “We recognized the potential to create something truly exceptional by combining our expertise with the rich viticultural landscape of this region.”
The wines produced by Le Chant Wines have garnered acclaim for their exceptional quality, rivalling top wines globally. Lorraine attributes this success to several factors, including organic viticulture, the meticulous attention to detail in vineyard management and winemaking practices.
Lorraine expressed a strong belief in the future of the South African wine industry, citing its diverse terroir and growing reputation for quality wines. “South Africa is blessed with a wide range of microclimates and soil types, which allow for the cultivation of a diverse array of grape varieties,” she said. “This diversity is a significant advantage, as it enables winemakers to experiment and innovate, producing wines that are both distinctive and expressive of their origins.”
Lorraine also highlighted the country’s commitment to sustainable and ethical viticulture as a key factor in its burgeoning reputation. “South African wine producers are increasingly adopting sustainable practices, from organic farming to water conservation and renewable energy use,” she observed. “These efforts not only protect the environment but also enhance the quality and authenticity of the wines. And of course, I have to mention the people who farm the vineyards and make the Le Chant wines. Petri Venter and his team are proof that South Africans are true wine people with an understanding of the soil, vineyards and winemaking that is totally unique, and their efforts and skills are world-class. South Africans are just terrific partners to have in the world of wine.”
Looking ahead, Oddo Vins et Domaines sees tremendous potential for growth and recognition of South African wines on the global stage. “The world is definitely taking greater notice of the exceptional quality and value that South African wines offer,” she remarked. “As more consumers and connoisseurs explore these wines, I am confident that they will continue to gain appreciation and acclaim, and for us as a French company immersed in wine, South Africa is seen as a jewel in the crown.”
Oddo Vins et Domaines’ investment in Le Chant Wines represents more than just a business venture; it is a testament to the power of collaboration and the pursuit of excellence. By bridging the traditions of French winemaking with the vibrant terroir of South Africa, they have created wines that stand out in a competitive market. “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Le Chant Wines and excited about the future,” said Lorraine. “This is just the beginning, and we look forward to continuing our journey in South Africa’s dynamic wine industry.”
She also says the success of Le Chant Wines under the stewardship of Oddo Vins et Domaines underscores the general potential of South African viticulture. With its unique terroir, commitment to quality, and innovative spirit, South Africa is poised to become a leading force in the world of fine wine. As Lorraine aptly put it, “The best is yet to come.”
Another major French winery that has invested substantially in the Cape is Advini, which along with various forays in the winelands of France now owns Le Bonheur, Kleine Zalze, Ken Forrester Wines and Stellenbosch Vineyards.
Like South Africans, the French culture is immersed in wine, says Naretha Ricome, vice-president at Advini, based just outside Montpellier in southern France.
“They are people of the vine, the soil and the land,” says Ricome. “There is the terrifically unique terroir. Superb vineyards of Chenin Blanc and Pinotage. And wonderful people, South Africans whose values, work ethic and love of the soil, vineyard and wine, suits the Advini ethos like a baguette in a picnic basket.”
And what about South Africa where, 34 years after sanctions ended, the wine industry is still largely seen as an international supplier of cheap, high-volume wine?
“The image and price of Cape wine has to rise to make it profitable for farmers to keep vines in the soil. From Advini’s side we are working hard to position our South African farms as strong, recognisable brands, which is just as important as getting good wine into the bottle. The quality of Cape wine is stunning, overwhelming actually – otherwise my French board and shareholders would not be here. So, for Advini a top priority is to expand the reach of our brands and further entrench them as desirable, premium wines throughout the world.”
