Kanonkop Estate has appointed Dirk van Zyl as its new head winemaker, with the Bonnievale-born vintner set to take up the position at the Simonsberg estate on 1 October.

Van Zyl (36) will succeed Francois van Zyl at the renowned Stellenbosch estate, bringing more than a decade of experience from premium Western Cape wineries.

The new head winemaker graduated from Stellenbosch University in 2012 with a BSc degree in Viticulture and Oenology. He has since worked at Kleine Zalze, De Morgenzon, Saxenburg and most recently Glenelly.

Johann Krige, co-owner of Kanonkop Estate, said Van Zyl had established himself as one of the standout winemakers of his generation.

“Dirk’s experience at various premium Stellenbosch wineries stands him in good stead to take over the reins as our head winemaker,” Krige said. “Since entering the South African wine scene 13 years ago, Dirk has made his mark locally and internationally.”

Van Zyl will lead the cellar team in producing the estate’s red wines, which have earned international recognition.

“Kanonkop is internationally recognised as South Africa’s First Growth, not only for the quality of its legendary red wines, but also for the profound role it played in the legacy of Cape wine,” Van Zyl said.

He described the appointment as a dream posting and said he felt honoured to follow in the footsteps of previous winemakers at the estate.

“It is a tremendous responsibility to be at the helm of a cellar with this reputation, but I believe that the opportunity and challenge will bring out the best in me as a winemaker,” he said.

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