5 Minutes with Werner Schrenk, GM & Winemaker at Peter Falke Wines…

Werner Schrenk

What was the driving force behind your deiciosn to become a winemaker?
When I was much younger and working at Rustenburg during my holidays, I met Adi Badenhorst. The seed was planted there.

Where did you train to become a winemaker?
Elsenburg

Louis Nel, Member of The Cape Winemakers Guild

Who would you regard as your mentor?
Louis Nel

You work with a selection of some of the world’s most noble grape varieties. Is there one other variety with which you would really like to work?
No

Peter Falke Barrel Cellar

Is there another wine you would like to make in your cellar with the varieties available to you there?
No

You seem to be quite innovative with new wine styles – what leads you there?
Always trying to improve

If you could choose anywhere in the world to make wine other than where you are now, where would it be?
Could you give Stellenbosch a different name?

Cabernet Sauvignon Grapes

And what grape type would you use?
Only ever Cabernet Sauvignon

I know it is a bit tricky asking a father to choose his favourite child, but which one of your wines is your current favourite?
The Peter Falke PF Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 vintage is now available

Richebourg, one of the most expensive Burgundys

Your greatest bottle of wine ever?
Richebourg 1970

Do you enjoy cooking to show your wines off at their best or do you leave that to others?
I love cooking

Roast leg of Lamb – photo by Dianne Bibby of Bibby’s Kitchen

If yes what do you enjoying cooking most?
Karoo Lamb or Duck

What is your favourite style of food?
I don’t have a favourite style of food, but I really enjoy Asian flavours

La Petite Colombe in Franschhoek

Your best style of restaurant, you enjoy visiting? Why?
La Petite Colombe, they take you on a journey of flavours

Your ideal dinner party table of 6, tell me why you chose them.
My 6 best friends, because we share the same interest and values and the conversation NEVER dries up.

Namib Desert – the dunes