Pierre de Klerk took over the reins as Graham Beck Cellar Master in 2022.
He joined the Graham Beck winemaking team in 2010 and his infectious enthusiasm and energy immediately contributed a fresh and eager dimension to the mix. A love of wine from an early age as well as family roots in the industry saw Pierre obtain a BSc Agriculture (Viticulture and Oenology) from Stellenbosch University, after which he gained invaluable experience at overseas and Cape cellars.
Pierre revels in the opportunity to apply his philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the unique characteristics of the vineyard to guide the process once the fruit is in the cellar. “It’s about embracing what Mother Nature, the vintage and the grapes have to offer,” he explains.
Pierre has certainly embraced his winemaking career, a far cry from his career guidance counsellor’s recommendation – accounting! “From the moment I open the cellar door to the moment I close it, I love every moment, every challenge and all the rewards of seeing the final product developing. I don’t think I’ve ever woken up and said ‘I don’t want to go to work’.” From harvesting, to blending and tasting of the final product, he approaches each aspect of the winemaking process with vigorous precision and immense enthusiasm.
Whether in the cellar or outdoors, Pierre strives to uphold the Graham Beck philosophy of ‘nothing less’ than the best in the tireless journey towards the perfect bubble.