Winemakers Pierre Wahl And Fanie Geyser Unite To Craft Survivor Wines In Paarl

When Pierre Wahl speaks about making wine in Paarl again, there’s a quiet smile in his voice. “For me, this is a full-circle moment,” he says. “I started my winemaking journey in Paarl more than three decades ago. To be back here now, crafting Survivor wines at Landskroon, feels incredibly special.”

Survivor Wines joined the Van Loveren Family Vineyards (VLFV) portfolio last year following their acquisition of Overhex Wines and its Worcester production facility. Soon after, Landskroon in southern Paarl also came under the VLFV umbrella, creating the opportunity for two respected winemakers, Pierre Wahl of Survivor and Fanie Geyser of Landskroon, to share a cellar and a vision.

What could have been simply a logistical move has instead become something far more meaningful.

“There’s a real energy in this space,” says Wahl. “We’re sharing ideas, experience and infrastructure, but also enthusiasm. It’s efficient, yes. But it’s also inspiring. We push each other in the best possible way.”

Launched in 2015, Survivor Wines draws its name from a remarkable true story. A Nguni cow once leapt from a moving truck on its way to auction and was later found, against all odds, wandering through vineyards in the Swartland. Bruised, but alive. She was named Survivor. That spirit of resilience and bold independence became the foundation of the brand. Vineyards are located primarily in the Swartland, but also Darling and Tradouw.

An acclaimed member of the Cape Winemakers Guild and affectionately known as the ‘Pope of Pinotage’, Wahl is widely respected for his expertise with South Africa’s signature varietal.

“I’m proud to be making these wines here,” he says. “Landskroon has deep family heritage, and there’s something so grounding about working in a cellar with history.”

Geyser, who has served as Landskroon’s winemaker since 2021 and earlier in his career was assistant winemaker on the farm from 2002, and fully-fletched winemaker from 2005 to 2007, echoes the sentiment. “There’s real mutual respect, and great synergy created by pooling resources and expertise. We challenge each other, we taste constantly, and we debate, always in a good spirit. That’s how you grow. Communication never stops, from vineyard decisions right through to fermentation schedules. It may look seamless from the outside, but behind it all is a lot of teamwork.”

With harvest season at its peak, the heat is on. “The fruit is looking fantastic,” says Wahl. “Our Swartland grapes, from dryland vines, have once again shown incredible resilience. They adapt to climatic conditions year after year, delivering bold flavours balanced by refreshing acidity. The dry, warm winds in October, November and December certainly supported flavour development. I’m so optimistic about this vintage.”

Looking ahead, Geyser outlines developments both in the vineyards and on the farm. “Water management is a key priority for us as we respond to climate realities. At the same time, with new, detailed soil mapping at our disposal, we can consider how best to adapt and refine our offering.”

A combined Survivor/Landskroon tasting room reopened late last year, unveiling sleek new interiors that complement the identities of both brands. Plans are underway to further enhance the wine tourism experience on the farm.

“We want it to feel personal,” says Geyser. “Not crowded or rushed. A place where people can connect with the wines, the stories and with us.”

Both brands are poised for their next chapter, underpinned by the expertise of their winemaking teams and renewed investment from VLFV, with a shared cellar where experience, collaboration and a deep respect for the land continue to shape wines that speak confidently of their origins.