Reenen Borman, the second generation winemaker at Boschkloof, is one of South Africa’s most well-regarded winemakers. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Oenology and Viticulture at Elsenburg, he quickly gained valuable harvest experience at L’ormarins and Domaine des Martinelles in the Rhône Valley in 2010. Upon returning home, he joined his family’s business at Boschkloof in Stellenbosch, where his early work and in-depth knowledge of the vineyards helped improve the quality of their wines over the last seven years. Founded in 1995 and named after the natural ravine on the farm, Boschkloof is located in the Polkadraai Hills ward of Stellenbosch, with its scenic rolling hills of decomposed granite and stunning mountain backdrops. Initially planted with Cape Riesling, the vineyards were later replanted with varieties better suited to the land, including Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. Today, Boschkloof is renowned for its Syrah, especially the single-vineyard bottling ‘Epilogue’, which became the first South African red wine to score 98 points from an internationally recognized critic.

Now leading the estate, Reenen brings a fresh perspective, with his education in the Rhône Valley and relationships with South Africa’s new wave of winemakers influencing his approach. The Bormans prioritize sustainable farming, with all grapes handpicked to ensure the highest quality. In the cellar, they use a hands-off approach with ambient yeast fermentations and occasional pied de cuve when needed to kick start things. Reenen has reduced new oak usage and introduced alternative fermentation and aging vessels, such as concrete and terra cotta, to produce wines that are timeless and full of character. As a testament to his widespread renown, Reenen was honored with membership in the prestigious Cape Winemakers Guild in 2023, a distinction given to only around 40 winemakers in South Africa.