The name Rousseau comes from the French ‘rous’ meaning ‘red’ and typically was a name given to a person with a ruddy complexion. Rousseau was also a Genevan philosopher. Winemakers need a good understanding of all things red. They also blend art with science as much as any philosopher. Rousseau therefore seems a perfect name for a winemaker, albeit André Rousseau did not have the full ruddy complexion that perhaps is more shown by a heavy drinker rather than a vintner. I met André for a tasting of his wines at Steenberg as that is where he makes them. His path to today is a long and successful one. Formerly the viticulturalist and then winemaker at Constantia Uitsig, André was responsible for over 16 years for major replanting of …

About Andre Rousseau…