Meet the Makers: Q&A with the Women Winemakers of the Breedekloof Makers

Meet the six extraordinary women crafting some of the finest wines in the heart of the Breedekloof Valley, South Africa. In a short & sweet Q&A session, we gain personal insight into their journeys, favourite wines, and a touch of fun. 

Elaine Conradie, Assistant Winemaker at Slanghoek Wine Estate

Q: Could you briefly overview your journey in the wine industry?
A: I studied at Elsenburg Agricultural College and had harvest stints in Philadelphia and California. I honed my skills at various vineyards before landing at Slanghoek in 2016.

Q: What's your current favourite wine from your estate, and why is it unique?
A: My pick would be our Legends Barrel Fermented Chenin Blanc 2019. As a predominantly white wine drinker, this is an excellent wine for the winter. Its rounder structure and notes of dried apricots, lime, and a hint of pineapple and honeysuckle, it is a fantastic accompaniment to a fireplace and cheese platter.

Q: Can you share an interesting fact or talent about you?
A: I enjoy belting out a song now and again, especially after a glass of wine or two.

Annemarie van Niekerk, Winemaker at Botha Kelder

Q: Could you tell us about your career in the wine industry?
A: After graduating in 2008, I started as an assistant winemaker at Botha Cellar, and over the years, I honed my skills and deepened my understanding of the intricacies of winemaking. This journey led me to specialise in white wine production, and I currently serve as the head of the white wine production at Botha Cellar.

Q: What's your current favourite wine from your estate and why?
A: My current favourite wine from our cellar is undoubtedly the Amyah Chenin Blanc. This wine holds a special place in my heart as it is part of the much-anticipated Breedekloof Maker's expected edition. What makes it even more significant is that it has evolved and grown alongside me throughout the years, almost like nurturing a cherished child.

Q: Do you have an interesting fact or talent to share?
A: I can't stand the smell of honey! On a creative note, I find great joy in restoring furniture, and if I had not become a winemaker, I would have probably been a doctor or pharmacist.

Ivy du Toit, Winemaker at Jason’s Hill Wine Estate

Q: Could you briefly tell us about your career in the wine industry?
A: I've been making wine at Jason's Hill since 2001, starting my journey in my dad's garage.

Q: What's your current favourite wine from your estate and why?
A: My favourite is the Arrois Chenin Blanc 2018 Cap Classique, the first Cap Classique made from Chenin Blanc (42 months on the lees!) in the Breedekloof Region. It's a thought I've nurtured for a long time, and I'm proud it became a reality.

Q: Can you share an exciting talent or fact about yourself?
A: I love cooking and can whip up a mean pavlova.

Lieza van der Merwe, Facility Manager & Marketing at Merwida Wine Estate

Q: Can you share your career journey in the wine industry?
A: I grew up on the Merwida wine farm, studied winemaking, and after several internships, locally and abroad, and earning my Cape Wine Master in 2021 (the first Cape Wine Master to reside in the Breedekloof Valley), I now manage the new tasting facility and marketing at Merwida.

Q: What's your current favourite wine from your estate and why?
A: Our unique Barbera wine is my favourite. It always surprises first-time tasters with a smile.

Q: Do you have an interesting fact or talent to share?
A: During my school and University days, I was a competitive swimmer and water polo player for Maties and the Western Cape.

Mariëtte Stofberg, Winemaker at Belle Rebelle

Q: Could you share your career journey in the wine industry?
A: My first memories of a winemaking cellar were with my grandfather. After my graduation in 2006, I worked in different wineries worldwide, and since 2012, I have been the winemaker and owner of Belle Rebelle.

Q: What's your current favourite wine from your estate and why?
A: The Mariëtte Chardonnay Cap Classique 2016 is my favourite. It spent 72 months on the lees and won a few significant accolades over the years.

Q: Can you share an interesting fact or talent about yourself?
A: I used to be a drum majorette in school, so I still know how to twirl and can throw a stick and do a double turn before catching it. I love horseback riding and still play netball. 

Elizma Visser, Winemaker at Olifantsberg

Q: Can you share your career journey in the wine industry?
A: I was an assistant winemaker in Stellenbosch for a few years before my travels to St Emilion and Veneto, leading me to my dream job. Managing the vineyards, making the wines and representing the brand within the industry has been an incredible journey! 

Q: What's your current favourite wine from your estate and why?
A: My wine choice is really up to the wine that inspires and motivates me the most at that moment in time. 

Q: Can you share an interesting fact or talent about yourself?
A: I know quite a bit about engines, cars, tractors, you name it. 

Behind every bottle of Breedekloof Makers' wine is a story of passion, dedication, and the personal journey of these women. Let’s celebrate Women’s Month with a bottle of wine from Jason’s Hill, Merwida, Olifantsberg, Belle Rebelle, Slanghoek Wine Estate & Botha Kelder!