Marc Kent, a prominent South African winemaker, is in the spotlight recently due to his ventures in Portugal while continuing to lead Boekenhoutskloof, the acclaimed estate he co-founded. Known for its innovative wines, Boekenhoutskloof has emerged as one of South Africa’s premier wine producers, underpinned by Kent’s vision and blending skills.
Marc’s journey in winemaking began at Elsenburg Agricultural College, and he soon got involved with Boekenhoutskloof in 1994, the same year South Africa embraced democracy. Initially, the winery was modest, primarily producing small volumes of cabernet sauvignon and semillon. However, Marc had bigger aspirations; he wanted to create exceptional wines that could compete on a global scale. His early accomplishments included the development of second-tier labels that expanded Boekenhoutskloof’s offerings and significantly bolstered its reputation.
Under his leadership, the winery flourished, producing The Chocolate Block, a flagship blend that gained international acclaim. Kent is known for his entrepreneurial flair, turning Boekenhoutskloof from a fledgling winery into what is now a significant player in the South African wine industry. The winery’s success has allowed expansion into other wine regions, such as the Swartland, and has encouraged technology innovations aimed at enhancing wine quality.
Recently, Marc has also turned his attention to Portugal, starting a new project in the Douro Valley with his partner Rita Marques. Despite the challenges of navigating a new market, Kent’s established network and dedication have already begun to yield positive results. Their brand, "Invincible," reflects their commitment to quality wines, garnered from Kent’s accumulated experience in winemaking.
Balancing his responsibilities at Boekenhoutskloof and the burgeoning venture in Portugal has been demanding for Kent, yet he engages both industries with enthusiasm. Through it all, his focus remains on creating quality wines and maintaining strong ethical values within the workplaces he cultivates, a mantra he describes as having “a generous spirit.”
For further insights into Marc Kent and Boekenhoutskloof, visit World Of Fine Wine.