Matthys Botes is the winemaker behind JC Le Roux, the leading sparkling wine brand in South Africa. JCLeRoux is completely dedicated to the technology that makes premiums lively.
Founded in 1982 in the picturesque Devon Valley of the world-famous Stellenbosch Wine Region, the brand is named after the French Huguenot Genreloux, which settled in the region in 1704 and planted the first grapes.
JC Le Roux is celebrated with the passion, craftsmanship and expertise in producing both classic caps and vibrant, accessible sparkling wines designed to suit any palate, pocket and occasion. It is literally South Africa's go-to place for any celebration.
Born and raised in Worcester, Botes now lives in Brackenfell with his wife Annell, whom he met at university, and his two children were destined to be in a vineyard from an early age. He spent countless hours on the grapes in Lawsonville, where his grandfather worked as a farm manager. Here, his fascination with viticulture and winemaking began during electrical energy, particularly during harvest season.
He initially intended to pursue pediatrics, but it turns out that the vine appeal has become stronger. Botes continued his research into Oenology and Biticulture at Stellenbosch University.
After graduating, he expanded his experience in Australia and then returned home to earn his master's degree. In 2001 he joined Distel (now Heineken's drink) as an experimental winemaker in the research and development department, and was extensively exposed to wines, spirits and RTD (ready-to-drink drinks) that include fab (flavored alcoholic beverages).
In 2007, Botes conducted an internship at Spottwoode Winery, a well-known family-run business in California.
He was appointed winemaker at JC Le Roux in 2019, bringing decades of experience and passion for innovation to a globally recognized brand that has consistently won acclaim, including number one in the Champagne/Sparkling Wine category at the City Press Leader's Choice Awards in 2022, and was named the Aske afcon Icon Brands' top sparkling wine brand for the fifth consecutive year.
Under Botes' leadership, JC Le Roux continues to push boundaries, producing extraordinary sparkling wines, and creating the first pioneer in many categories.
It will be held at the Inanda Polo Club on May 24th and 25th, ahead of the Johannesburg Cap Classic, Champagne & Bubbles Festival.
What do you know about the JC Le Roux Bubblies, which can be used to tasting and purchase at this year's event?
absolutely! We are thrilled to be the headline sponsor of this annual celebration of South Africa's finest bubbles, and we are thrilled to showcase the stars in our range, from fruit forward favorites to sparkling beauty with a more refined dryer style. Think of the wines that form our brand's heartbeat, the wine commonly known as JC Le Roux.
Le Domaine has its distinctive vivid freshness and gentle sweet palate. Lafullet, our vibrant, sparkling rosé is bursting with strawberry, plum and tropical fruit flavours. Rachanson, South Africa's first red sparkling wine, charming sweet notes of strawberries and plums. And our dry-style Sauvignon Blanc Sparkling wine is the first of its kind, boasting fresh rich, pineapple and granadilla flavors.
Also pour the acclaimed cap classic: Cintila. An elegant collection of semi-sweet sparkling wines, demisecs and rosé. In addition to the non-alcoholic options (Le Domaine and La Fleurette) and a convenient 250ml single serve can, it's perfect for refreshing while you're out.
Which one is your favorite and why?
I'm a huge fan of both classic sweet and off-dry styles, but I'd have to pick the 2015 vintage JC Le Roux Scintilla Cap Classic. It has won numerous awards for its outstanding quality, including the 2022 Michelangelo Award and double gold at the Amorim Cap Classic Challenge. Most notably, he won the Cap Classic Trophy at the 2023 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards. This is a wine that reflects the highest standards originally set by my talented predecessor Elunda Basson, who served as a Ceraria star from 2007 to 2019.
What kind of dishes do each pair do?
Oysters and caviar are always classic, but there are plenty of creative and delicious pairings that you can enjoy every day. Le Domaine pairs beautifully with traditional brandy puddings with Thai chicken curry, delicate macaroons or custard. La Fruette is fantastic with bacon and camembert flapjack topped with fresh berries and white chocolate cheesecake with berry couri. La Chanson complements beef and butter bean curry or lemon cheesecake with blueberries. Our Sauvignon Blanc sparkling wine shines with grilled fish and seafood, especially fresh salads served with citrus vinaigrette with smoked salmon, asparagus and pepper, goat cheese and vegetables forward-looking dishes.
For nectar demisec wines, think of fruity desserts, freshly baked puddings like ice cream, sushi, sashimi pecan pie, or delicious dishes like slow-cooked pork, spicy South Indian shrimp curry, and creamy cheeses like brie and kamaber. It's also great for tasty tarts like ricotta or spinach quiche. And finally, the scintilla is a celebration in itself. Book on special occasions where you can serve tuna tartare, scallops, crayfish, or calorum chops along with Maldon Salt. For dessert, try it with a fine Choux pastry.
What do you want to do to relax away from the vineyards?
I love spending time with my family, enjoying the outdoors and nature. I am fascinated by history books, films, and music, and I will not be grateful for the delicious wines, great food, and the company of my friends.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
JC Le Roux is known for its elegant aesthetics and attention to detail in exceptional quality. Members of the JCLeRoux family have lovingly placed each ribbon in a bottle with their hands for over 45 years. We are passionate about the bubbles and the joy they bring to every moment. All celebrations are invitations and with JC Le Roux, yours is always waiting.
If you are unable to attend this year's festival, visit the home of JC Le Roux, our celebratory home in the heart of Devon Valley in Stellenbosch. It's a great destination to experience a vibrant, expressive sparkling wine created for every mood, taste and moment. It is a lush, luxurious, family-friendly environment that embodies who we are. He is the leader in sparkling wines in South Africa. Enjoy tastings, cellar tours and delicious meals at the welcoming restaurant. We look forward to welcoming you!
For more information, visit www.jcleroux.co.za to explore the JC Le Roux Range.
The Johannesburg Cap Classic Champagne & Bubbles Festival will be held at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton on May 24th and 25th, with tastings running from 11 hours to 2:30pm, with sales and live music from 2:30pm to 4:000pm.
Other confirmed producers present include Amari Rush, Anthonyge Rupert Winn (Lil Marines), Black Elephant Vintner, Boshendal, Carol Boys Wine, Graham Beck, Haute Cabriere (Pierre Jordan's House), Azari's House, Crew Wine, Nanora Wine, Nanora Wine, Steenburg Vineyards, BNG's House, Villiera Wines, Wcellar. Among the various food stalls offering delicious dishes are taco burgers, Arabic King, Dim Sam Fest, iconic sushi, fresh savings, Tumi's Charcuterie Cart Chateau Gateau, Christine's Bilton and Holly's Nougat.
The live music is courtesy of the saxophonist's extraordinary Robero and Cape Town DJ phenomenon Shen FM. This year's theme is refined floral chic, with a fantastic prize that is awarded the best dressed.
Tickets are available from WeBtickets and includes a Hospitality Ticket* (R850pp), private entrance access to the venue, a dedicated area with hosts and security guards, welcome glasses of tating ter champagne, branded crystal tasting glass, 20 tasting coupons, take home a free bottle of bottles, and a general admission ticket (R450pps).
*Chospitality tickets on Saturday are sold out, but are still available on Sunday.
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