Six exceptional wines, passionately crafted for discerning palates in the relentless pursuit of excellence – the expression of head winemaker Alvi van der Merwe’s drive to explore, to create, to reimagine.
For many years, Alvi pursued a medical career abroad, but no matter where life took him, his country of birth was never far from his thoughts. Returning to his roots, back to the family farm in Scherpenheuvel, Worcester, he was able to realise his long-held dream of crafting world-class wines that would not only tell a story of tradition, but also of possibility.
The bridge depicted on the label of Alvi's Drift Reserve wines is more than just a crossing over the Breede River; it’s a symbol of vision, courage, and transformation. Each bottle in the Reserve range embodies this spirit of daring, of embracing the unknown and creating something extraordinary. Alvi’s Drift invites wine enthusiasts to savour a glass as they reflect on their own journeys – their own bridges crossed and dreams pursued to taste what’s possible.
Alvi’s Drift Reserve CVC
One of the most sought-after white blends in South Africa, it draws you in with intense aromas of peach, passionfruit and stewed quince, complemented by citrus and floral notes. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine is impeccably balanced, with a creamy texture and soft, well-integrated tannins that make it versatile enough to pair with almost any dish. A lingering tropical-fruit finish.
Alvi’s Drift Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
This has quickly climbed to the Top 5 in its category. Layers of lime blossom, white peach, and a touch of passionfruit create a captivating bouquet, while on the palate, lively acidity mingles with lush fruit, giving way to a silky texture and gentle creaminess. A refreshing finish of peach and lime truly invites you to “taste what's possible.”
Alvi’s Drift Reserve Chardonnay
World-class elegance and refinement. It entices with aromas of lemon zest, toast, and subtle spice, layered with hints of melon. On the palate, a luxurious creaminess unfolds, balanced by soft tannins and vibrant acidity. A lingering fresh-lime finish.
Alvi’s Drift Reserve Drift Fusion
Recognised as one of South Africa’s best-value Cape blends, beautifully showcasing South Africa’s signature Pinotage, harmoniously integrated with the cedar and cigar notes of Cabernet Sauvignon as well as the spiciness of Shiraz. It opens with complex aromas of rich, ripe black fruit, featuring notes of prune, black cherry, and blackcurrant. Layers of spice and hints of cedarwood enhance the experience, and on the palate, black fruit flavours resonate, complemented by silky-yet-firm tannins and well-balanced acidity.
Alvi’s Drift Reserve Muscat Nectarinia
One of the first wines crafted by Alvi and, from humble beginnings, now recognised as one of South Africa’s best dessert wines. Produced only in exceptional vintages and aged for five years in French oak. Rich aromas of raisin, fig, and honey, balanced by refreshing acidity and spiced peach undertones.
Alvi’s Drift Reserve Viognier
Launched in October 2024, made from a rare white grape requiring a high level of winemaking expertise, it presented an exciting challenge to the team in building on the success of Alvi’s entry-level Signature Viognier and crafting a truly world-class expression of the variety.
• Article sponsored by Alvi’s Drift
