The Magic of Spring in Franschhoek
Spring in Franschhoek is always a time of quiet beauty and promise. After the calm of winter, the valley stirs awake: vineyards show the first signs of new growth, orchards burst into blossom, and the landscape seems to hum with life. For us at Mel Wines, spring is more than just a change of season—it is a reminder of new beginnings and the delicate balance between nature and winemaking.
Walking through the vines on Klein Champagne at this time of year is a special experience. The energy is almost tangible, with fresh shoots pushing through, promising another season of harvests to come. It is this sense of renewal that inspires us to continue crafting wines that reflect both the land and the passion of the people who tend it.
Introducing Our New Vintages
This year, spring is particularly exciting as we share our newly bottled 2025 wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinotage Rosé, and Sangiovese Rosé. Each wine represents the dedication and care that defines our boutique approach.
The Sauvignon Blanc is made from certified old vines, first planted in 1985. This heritage gives the wine remarkable depth and character, offering delicate aromatics and a fresh, precise finish. The Chardonnay, meanwhile, reflects careful winemaking, with time in old French oak bringing texture and elegance.
Both the Pinotage Rosé and the Sangiovese Rosé are wines designed for spring and summer—bright, expressive, and made to be enjoyed with friends around a table, whether it’s a casual lunch or a more festive occasion. Each bottle is crafted in small quantities, a true reflection of our commitment to quality over volume.
Looking Ahead: The Reopening of Our Tasting Room
Another highlight on the horizon is the reopening of our tasting room in October. For us, wine is best experienced in the place it was grown and made, and we cannot wait to welcome visitors back to Klein Champagne. A tasting at our boutique estate is not just about sampling wines—it is about stepping into the history of the Franschhoek Valley, the story of the Mellema family, and the connection between land, vines, and people.
Our tasting room will give visitors a chance to enjoy the wines in their purest context, surrounded by the beauty of the farm. It is here, more than anywhere else, that the wines truly come alive.
A Toast to New Beginnings
As Franschhoek blossoms into spring, we at Mel Wines are reminded of what makes this valley so unique. Each vintage, each season, and each bottle is a chance to share a piece of our story with you. Whether you open a bottle of our new releases at home or plan a visit to the farm in the months to come, we look forward to raising a glass together.
Here’s to spring, to new wines, and to the joy of what lies ahead.