BLOG

Celebrating the Women Who Shape Franschhoek

By: Franschhoek Wine Valley

As we raise one last glass to Women’s Month, we shine the spotlight on the trailblazers of our valley.

Franschhoek is known for its breathtaking scenery, award-winning wines, and world-class dining—but at the heart of its magic are the remarkable women who bring soul, skill, and strength to everything they touch.

This Women’s Month, we’ve had the pleasure of celebrating the inspiring female chefs, winemakers, creatives, and changemakers who shape the valley’s vibrant story. As we look ahead to the start of spring, we take one final moment to honour these leading ladies whose talents deserve the spotlight year-round.

 

From kitchens to cellars, these women are driving the region’s reputation for excellence. Head chefs like Charne Sampson (Epice), Nicola Spilsbury (Spilsbury’s Kitchen), Nicolene Barrow (Orangerie at Le Lude), Tyrese Slade (Tuk Tuk Brewery), Keshia Louw (La Cotte Mill House) and Jessica Fourie (Klein Jan at La Motte) turn local ingredients into artistry, bringing heart, heritage and innovation to every plate.

 

In the world of wine, leading voices like Irene de Fleuriot (La Bri), Annamarie Fourie (Holden Manz), Natasha Pretorius (GlenWood), and Andrea Mullineux (Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines) continue to break barriers and bottle brilliance with every vintage.

 

We also salute the pioneering women who’ve helped define Franschhoek’s hospitality legacy, including Susan Huxter, Margot Janse, and Lodine Maske, as well as inspiring community figures like Amy Kleinhans-Curd, who uplift the valley through education, philanthropy and leadership.

To the chefs, the winemakers, the leaders and the dreamers—thank you. For your vision, your flavour, your courage and your contribution.

Here’s to the women of Franschhoek. May we know them, celebrate them, and raise our glasses to them—today, tomorrow, and every day.

Happy Women’s Month, South Africa.