The Producer
Alvi’s Drift is a family-owned estate in the Scherpenheuwel ward of Worcester, nestled in the Breede River Valley. Founded in 1928 by patriarch Albertus Viljoen van der Merwe, the estate is now run by his grandson Alvi — a medical doctor who returned from abroad to take the reins. With winemakers Henk Swart and Linley Schultz, and Cape Wine Master Junel van der Merwe, this team consistently punches above its weight. Alvi’s Drift holds the NWC Vineyard Consistency Award — ranked South Africa’s number one estate with 62 winning wines over 15 years.
Vintage & Terroir
The Signature Viognier draws from the estate’s diverse Breede River Valley terroir — decomposed granite, limestone, and shale soils cooled by the valley’s unique microclimate. Viognier thrives in these warm, sun-drenched conditions, developing the intense stone fruit aromatics and rich texture the variety is celebrated for. The 2024 vintage delivered beautifully aromatic fruit with the concentration and freshness that has made this wine a perennial award winner — often called “a white wine for red wine lovers.”
In the Cellar
The Viognier is handled gently to preserve its intense aromatics. Cool fermentation in stainless steel retains freshness and fruit purity, while a portion sees time in oak to add weight and complexity. The result is a Viognier of real richness and texture that still finishes with elegance and poise — the kind of wine that converts white wine sceptics.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Glowing pale straw with golden highlights.
Nose: Intense aromas of ripe apricot, sun-drenched stone fruit, and rose petal with hints of warm spice.
Palate: Full-bodied and richly textured, with layers of apricot, peach, and tropical fruit. A subtle creaminess and gentle spice add complexity, while balanced acidity provides lift and freshness.
Finish: Long and lingering, with ripe stone fruit and a spicy, floral farewell.
Food Pairing
A stunning match for Thai green curry, butter chicken, or pan-fried kingklip with a coconut sauce. It also pairs beautifully with roasted pork belly, aromatic Middle Eastern dishes, or a rich lobster thermidor. Serve at 10–12°C.
Technical Details
| Vintage | 2024 |
| Region | Breede River Valley, Western Cape |
| Grape(s) | Viognier |
| Closure | Screw cap |
| Accolades | Best Viognier in SA (2022 Viognier Challenge); Gold, 2025 LUMO Awards; Tim Atkin 88pts |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Alvi’s Drift Signature Viognier is backed by our 100% Happiness Assured! Guarantee. If you’re not completely delighted, get in touch and we’ll make it right — no fuss, no fine print, just great wine and happy customers.
