More Women in Wine - Award Winning Boschendal Sparkling Brut Maker!

More Women in Wine - Award Winning Boschendal Sparkling Brut Maker!

Boschendal Cap Classique Winemaker takes top honours at SA Women’s Wine & Spirit Awards

Taking a fine balance between innovation and tradition to new heights has once again proved fruitful for legacy Franschhoek Valley winery, Boschendal as its Cap Classique winemaker, Danielle Coetsee, received the prestigious ‘’Woman Winemaker of the Year” award at the 2020 SA Women’s Wine & Spirit Awards.

With an estimated 10% of winemakers being female worldwide, this recognition is especially poignant for the 335-year-old winery and Danielle Coetsee alike. “Our country has produced stellar winemakers throughout the years who continue to ensure the growing success of locally made wines. I feel incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award for my contribution at Boschendal wines.”

Caroline van Schalkwyk, Head of Marketing for the Cap Classique Producers Association (CCPA) was quick to add her praise of this achievement of the heritage estate.

“The Cap Classique from Boschendal are consistently of the highest standard, and we are proud to have them as members of the Cap Classique Producers Association. Danielle’s commitment to quality and the Cap Classique category in general sets a fine example to other winemakers in the industry. With wines like these and passionate winemakers behind them, we are ensuring that Cap Classique is globally recognised as a product of distinction and elegance.”

Coetsee has come a long way from the girl who grew up listening to her uncle’s stories that piqued her interest and made her dream of producing wines that people could appreciate and enjoy. Now, she understands that science, experience and hard work are the key ingredients – and the importance of getting your hands dirty during harvest!

“Attention to detail and dedication to continuous improvement are the most important characteristics a winemaker should have,” says Danielle. “Having an amazing support system, at the Boschendal cellar and at home; being patient but diligent in the endeavour to produce top class Méthode Cap Classique wines. “ 

Shirley van Wyk, Marketing Manager for Boschendal Wines was especially proud of the accolade. “South African cap classique wines are a force to be reckoned with. Seeing first-hand the dedication and passion that Danielle has given to the estate, I believe we will continue to see growth and appreciation for our wines increase in the international market. There is a uniqueness to South African wines that cannot be reproduced elsewhere – and a uniqueness to Boschendal wines that we have crafted over many generations.”

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