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Celebrating Exceptional Women in Winemaking This Women’s Month
Franschhoek is renowned for many things; from its gourmet gold and fine wines to a vibrant arts scene and a celebration of all things ‘lifestyle’.
There’s no denying that our community’s boundless talent and creativity shine through in every corner of our enchanting valley and as we approach the start of spring and continue to celebrate Women’s Month this August, we felt it the perfect time to shine the spotlight on just a few of our leading ladies!
This year, we’re highlighting a few famous faces in the world of winemaking, these cellarmasters are making waves in the wine world, renowned for their talent and passion that further puts Franschhoek on the map and enriches our own lives with exquisite, bottled artistry.
And so… as you keep reading- why not celebrate them in style the best way possible, by uncorking a choice bottle of Franschhoek’s finest as we toast to their achievements by and raising a glass to their remarkable contributions and creations:
Irene de Fleuriot
Irene (Waller) de Fleuriot, now a leading figure in South African winemaking, began her journey in the industry at the age of 36. Today, she stands among the country’s top winemakers at La Bri, a picturesque estate spanning 24 hectares, with 13.5 hectares dedicated to vineyards. Irene’s path to winemaking was anything but conventional; she first earned a B Com from UCT, worked as a maths and accounting teacher, and then embarked on a transformative journey across Australia, South Africa and Europe to gain invaluable wine experience. Her dedication culminated in 2001 with a BSc Agric from the University of Stellenbosch, where she was honoured with the Professor Perold Trophy as the top student.
Annamarie Fourie
Annamarie Fourie’s journey into winemaking may have begun later in life, but her fervour and talent have propelled her to remarkable heights. After a transformative stint in the U.S., she was drawn to winemaking through a pivotal harvest opportunity at Durbanville Hills. Her career has since soared, with significant milestones at Backsberg and now at Holden Manz, where she excels as a winemaker. Her exceptional craft and innovation have earned her a distinguished spot among the six finalists of the 2023 Diners Club Winemaker Awards, showcasing her ability to push the boundaries of winemaking and deliver extraordinary wines.
Natasha Pretorius
Natasha Pretorius, the esteemed winemaker at GlenWood Vineyards, proudly flies the flag for South African winemaking on the global stage. Her exceptional skills, honed through rigorous academic achievements and under the expert mentorship of DP Burger, have led to numerous accolades for GlenWood’s wines. With forty percent of their wines distributed across Southern Africa and the remainder reaching the Northern Hemisphere, Natasha’s craftsmanship is showcased far and wide. Her dedication and talent have not only earned recognition from wine judges but have also contributed to GlenWood’s esteemed reputation in the international wine community.
Andrea Mullineux
Andrea Mullineux is widely recognised as South Africa’s leading female winemaker, renowned for her exceptional blend of science and artistry. With a background in both art and science, Mullineux crafts wines that capture the essence of the Swartland’s unique terroirs. Her journey from California to becoming one of South Africa’s most acclaimed winemakers is highlighted by numerous accolades and a profound dedication to her craft.
Between producing award-winning wines under the Mullineux and Leeu Passant labels, engaging with new and established markets, and managing her responsibilities as a busy mother of two, leaves us wondering if she ever finds a moment to simply breathe in her 25-hour days!
As Robert Louis Stevenson wisely said, “Wine is sunshine held together by water.” In the hands of these remarkable women, that sunshine shines even brighter. Here’s to womanhood, to wine and to celebrating our collective achievements this August!