Wine of the Week: Alexander Vineyards Susara 2024

“Stephen said to me, ‘Start the wine brand. Do whatever you think is right.’ Where do you ever get an opportunity like that?” says CEO and cellarmaster Hannes Meyer as he leads me through The Alexander Estat, a newly launched property in Noordhoek.

At the foot of Chapman’s Peak, the views are among the most spectacular in the Cape. Vineyards fringed by fynbos tumble towards the Atlantic, where broad bands of white sand meet deep blue sea.

Stephen Newton is the grandson of Alexander Moir, who bought Good Hope Farm beneath Chapman’s Peak with his retirement savings in 1960. Although financial pressures forced the family to sell, Stephen never forgot the stories of the farm. After founding the international consulting firm Elixirr, he was able to buy it back more than 50 years later, bringing the property home to the family once again.

They have poured their heart and soul into creating a boutique luxury retreat. Facilities include heated plunge pools, a spa, gym and outdoor pools, alongside curated experiences ranging from vineyard walks and wine tastings to vineyard picnics and braais.

“We’ve all been involved since day one,” emphasises Hannes. “We’ve seen it grow from the ground up. There’s a lot of emotion invested in this place.” 

Meticulous, vineyard-first approach

Winemaking stalwart Hannes Meyer has spent more than two decades in the wine industry, including estates Simonsig Family Vineyards and Lomond Wine Estate before joining Cape Point Vineyards in 2023 as CEO and cellarmaster. A Stellenbosch University graduate in viticulture and oenology, he is known for a meticulous, vineyard-first approach, favouring freshness, precision and texture. Today he oversees both the vineyards and cellar, while leading the development of the new Alexander Vineyards range.

“My approach is on cool-climate, fine wines. Elegance above all.”

We’ve moved into the Limelight Lounge, sinking into deep couches in front of the fireplace to taste the wines. The mesmerising seascape floods through wide glass. The range is a balance between estate-grown wines, as well as bottlings from special vineyards Hannes has a connection with. In the cellar, hand-harvested fruit, whole-bunch pressing and natural fermentations in stainless steel, oak and clay amphorae preserve purity and site.

“The goal is simple. Make interesting, fun wines that we enjoy making and drinking ourselves.”

A place for the community

They are also committed to the Noordhoek community, with plans to showcase more local producers through their hospitality offering, from food and drink to artisan collaborations. This holistic approach extends to the Alexander Foundation, due to launch shortly, which will focus on education, a cause close to Stephen Newton and his wife’s hearts. Already, 10 per cent of all online wine sales are donated to Masicorp (Masiphumelele Corporation) to support adult education, while the foundation’s work will concentrate on creating opportunities for children.

“The Noordhoek community must make this their headquarters,” says Hannes, gesturing around the beautifully appointed room, where soft sage greens and sandy coastal tones mirror the landscape beyond. “We want people to bring friends, book tastings, have lunch and spend time here.”

Alexander Vineyards Susara 2024

Named after the Susara protea found growing across their sea-facing slopes. A blend of sauvignon blanc, sémillon and the rare sauvignon gris is aged for 14 months in Austrian oak. Aromatics of nettles, blood orange and white pear give way to a palate that balances fruit, savouriness, bright acidity and layered texture. A subtle line of spice runs through, while the sauvignon gris lends a gentle pithiness and fine phenolic grip to a neatly dry finish. “If you’re someone who doesn’t usually drink red wine but wants a steak, this is the sort of white you could happily order,” says Hannes.
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