Master Winemakers Top 100: Daniela Jansen

Daniela Jansen, winemaker at Saronsberg, features as one of our top 100 winemakers. She tells db about the challenge of judging ripeness, wagyu burgers and a fateful trip to France.

At the age of 14, Daniela Jansen visited a winery and her career path was set. Even though she was too young to taste, she noticed how something as simple as a bottle of wine could bring friends and family together. She instantly knew that she wanted to be part of creating those moments.

Having completed her studies at Elsenburg Agricultural College in 2017, Jansen worked harvests in Stellenbosch, Napa Valley and Portugal: experiences which jointly fed her love of wine and travel. However, it was a class trip to the Rhône during her final year of studies which ultimately steered her towards Saronsberg.

Jansen won a Master medal for the Saronsberg Full Circle 2021 at the Global Syrah Masters 2023.

Describe your winemaking approach in no more than three words.

Consistency is key.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

My favourite part of the job is being able to create something that brings people from all around the world together; it is just an amazing feeling. The long days of harvest are worth it when you sit down with loved ones and enjoy a glass of good wine.

Which aspect of the job keeps you awake at night?

Deciding when the perfect time is to pick the grapes. This sets the tone for the winemaking process and determines the end product of the wine. You want to wait for perfect sugar readings, but also perfect phenolic ripeness.

What’s your go-to drink at the end of a long day?

A nice big glass of cold South African Chenin Blanc.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Focus on the small details; that is how you create consistent quality wines. All the small details along the way add up. There are easier ways to make wine, but no better way.

What was your greatest winemaking mistake?

Not trusting my gut instincts.

What’s the most important winemaking lesson you’ve learned so far?

Careful planning allows you to be prepared for every situation. It helps to stay in control of the situation.

Which figure outside the world of wine inspires you?

My whole family is a big inspiration for me. They believe in me and have supported me throughout my journey to become a winemaker, and still do. We keep on motivating each other to be our best selves.

Where would your fantasy vineyard be?

I love the diverse terroir here in Tulbagh, but also the terroir and wine from the Southern Rhône.

If you weren’t a winemaker, what would you be doing and why?

I honestly can’t really picture myself doing anything else. But, if I had to choose, it would be anything involving animals. I have a love and passion for helping animals.

What’s the most memorable food match you’ve had with one of your wines?

A juicy wagyu beef burger, chips and a glass of our Saronsberg Shiraz. There is nothing tastier than a good burger, chips and a glass of Shiraz.

What role does sustainability have to play in a Master-winning wine?

It is very important. Sustainability in winemaking, including environmentally responsible practices, is crucial for producing quality wines. These practices contribute to grape quality, vineyard health, and are considered essential when producing Master-winning wines.

Which type of wine do you drink most regularly?

Shiraz or Shiraz-based red blends. Nothing beats a good Shiraz.

Your home is on fire: which bottle do you save?

A bottle of Elsenburg Chenin Blanc 2017. This was the first wine I ever made all by myself.