The head winemaker at Koelenhof tells db about taking the opportunity of each vintage, building tourism infrastructure and language learning.
A deep appreciation of his surroundings and a desire to honour his region’s rich heritage combined to steer Nicholas Husselman down the winemaking path. After graduating from the University of Stellenbosch in 2010, he steadily began gaining recognition before joining Koelenhof in 2017. With the flagship Stellenbosch 1679 range, Husselman and his team aim to capture the very finest expression of this region’s long wine history and terroir.
What job did you imagine yourself doing when you were seven years old?
I always imagined myself as a mechanical engineer. As a child, I was constantly trying to solve mechanical problems.
Who first led you down the winemaking career path, and how?
I grew up near vineyards and wineries, which sparked my early interest in agriculture. I began studying Agricultural Science at the University of Stellenbosch and, during my second year, I travelled to the US, where I visited several wineries. It was there that I realised I wanted to become a winemaker.
What’s the most recent lesson this job has taught you?
The most recent lesson is the importance of patience. In winemaking, you only get one opportunity each year, so there’s no need to rush any important decisions.
If you were a wine, what would your back label say?
This exceptional wine captures the essence of Nicholas. With its rich flavours, it is a harmonious blend of laughter, adventure and warmth. Every sip reveals kindness, compassion and dignity.
What’s the last book you read?
No Ordinary People by David McLaughlan.
What’s the last live music performance you saw?
Kings of Leon during their world tour, at Cape Town Stadium.
What frustrates you most about the world of wine?
Quality wine can be quite expensive and, as a result, is not always accessible to the average wine enthusiast.
Which sustainability initiative are you most proud of, and why?
I’m most proud of our focus on social sustainability – supporting local communities through education and healthcare.
If you could change one thing about your wine region, what would it be?
I would improve the tourism infrastructure, including better signage and wayfinding, more user-friendly wine route maps and additional guided tours to showcase our beautiful region.
Which winemaker do you most admire, and why?
I admire Beyers Truter, named best winemaker at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 1991 for his Pinotage. He is regarded as the “king of Pinotage” and is a true legend in the South African wine industry.
Which missing skill do you most wish you possessed?
I wish I were fluent in more languages.
What’s your idea of a perfect holiday?
At the beach, spending quality time with family and friends, cooking delicious meals (preferably a ‘braai’) and enjoying great wine.
What is the most pressing personal or professional ambition you’d like to fulfil?
My biggest personal ambition is to learn a new language. On the professional front, I aspire to mentor aspiring winemakers, sharing my knowledge and experience to help them thrive. I would love to create my own signature wine brand, combining passion with expertise to craft something truly unique.
What would your final meal be? And what would you drink with it?
If I had to choose, my final meal would be a roast leg of lamb with seasonal vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes. I’d pair this with our premium Stellenbosch 1679 Cabernet Sauvignon 2020.
