THE SHOW
Fort Berens in Lillooet, BC we present a conversation with winemaker Alex Nel.
Alex Nel
From our friends at Fort Berens in Lillooet, BC we present a conversation with winemaker Alex Nel.
Originally from the wine regions of South Africa, Alex came to BC with his winemaking wife to create a new life in a completely new country.
They have both made us better. Better wines, better vineyards and a better country.
Right off the top, just want the reader to know how impressed I am with these wines.
Not kidding here folks, these wines from Fort Berens announce the arrival of a winery to follow, taste and admire.
Fort Berens Winery
We have 9 wines to taste and talk about. Each crafted with focused balance and skill.
Newly Released 2022 (All Gold Medal or above)
Blanc de Blanc 2022 Traditional method ( 91 Points and Gold at The Nationals)
Meritage 2022 ( Gold LA, Nationals, 93 points Natalie MacLean)
Cabernet Franc 2022 (Gold and Best in Class LA)
Cabernet Franc Reserve 2022 (95 Points. Double Gold Global Fine Wine Challenge)
Newly released 2023 Wines
Reisling Reserve 2023 (91 points Silver. The Nationals. 90 points Silver. Decanter World Awards)
Chardonnay Reserve White Gold 2023 (92 points Christopher Waters, Globe and Mail 2025)
New or soon-to-be-released 2024 Wines
Small Lot Pinot Gris 2024 Outstanding (wine club and winery direct)
Riesling 2024 (93 Points Gold Global Wine Challenge. 92 Points Gold The Nationals )
Pinot Noir 2024 (very small crop. Truly Unique)
What’s truly remarkable is all of these wines and vineyards somehow managed to survive 2 Winter cold snaps that decimated many vineyards throughout BC.
It’s possible that their vineyards survived due to their farming practices. Fort Berens Winery has been certified as a sustainable winegrowing BC vineyard and winery.
Congratulations to the new CEO Heleen Pannekoek and Winemaker Alex Nel.
Bravo!!!
STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON
Hester Creek
New red releases and
UNDICI – new super Tuscan style
Kismet – New Reds.
