This comment leads to an immediate riposte from his feisty wife, efficiently tying her apron after a quick shower, having come in from a run through the vineyards: 'No, Louis, that's you. I also make wines from the Helderberg, and mine is much more elegant, more classical.' And so, as they busy themselves about the kitchen, the two embark upon a heartfelt, but friendly discussion on how different styles can emanate from the same terroir.
It is a warm, open family space giving directly onto a spacious, comfortable living room with floor-to-ceiling folding doors on two sides that, whether opened or closed, bring the outdoors - doors - lawns, trees, vines, and swimming pool - in. Tables are big in size and stature in the Strydom home.
Outside under a spreading pecan nut tree is a table that Louis Strydom knocked together himself, 'just from any old wood'. Closer inspection reveals names inscribed on the surface, a commemoration of meals shared with special friends and family.
'The idea is that whoever is invited to "sign" the table is given a little magnifying glass to literally burn his or her name into the wood, using the sun's reflection; my wife's an expert at it!'
Strydom Vineyards is a small portion of land once part of an old fruit farm. It lies among the foothills of the Simonsberg among some of the Cape's most vaunted and venerable red wine farms.
The couple bought it in 2000 with a view to eventually making their own wine. Louis set about planting a small patch of his beloved shiraz just beyond the garden, as well as establishing some reds on a far corner of the property.
'Wine is made for food, not as a beverage; well, that’s how I see my wines.'
They also rent a further five hectares of a smidgen each of three classic red and two white varieties, lovingly tended by Louis.
They've renovated the now open-plan, warm, and comfortable family home - shared with six dogs of various shapes, sizes and ages.
A special feature is the backdrop to their oven, tucked away into what was formerly a large hearth: inlays of wooden wine boxes used as packaging by some by some of France’s top names.
'We were on a barrel tour in France and got chatting to a cooper who collected the branded heads of wine boxes used by some of the great names in French wine. Next thing, this parcel arrived for us! It was such fun unpacking our mystery gift! Memories of travels in France while I cook.'
Fridges play as big a role as tables in their living space. Besides one in the kitchen and one in the garage - 'for fruit,' says Louis, with a meaningful look at his busy, active, health-conscious wife - there's the wine fridge - 'for aged reds and special wines,' he explains, shifting his gaze reverentially to the hi-tech burgundy-coloured brute lurking in a corner.
One day it'll no doubt hold a few Strydom Vineyards classics, probably grown by Louis and made by Rianie. 'We can't make wine together; our styles are too different,' reminds Rianie firmly. 'Ja, my vrou,' [Yes, my wife] says her husband with his characteristic equanimity. And they smile understandingly at each other.
Baked spaghetti bolognaise recipe by Louis Strydom paired with Ernie Els Big Easy wine....
Springbok fillet with gooseberry-Amarula sauce recipe by Louis Strydom paired with Ernie Els Proprietor's Blend wine....