A first in history - an elephant assisted Boplaas in producing wine

Monday, 11 February, 2008
Klein Karoo Wine Route
For thousands of year's man has helped produce wine through treading the grapes with his feet. For the first time in history - an elephant is used to help produce a wine through treading the grapes with his feet.
The treading process took place on Tuesday, 5 February at the Knysna Elephant Park, where Harry the elephant was
trained by qualified staff for the past three weeks. Harry, who is 22 years old, especially enjoys Chardonnay, Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Before the treading took place Harry's feet were washed and sterilized. During the treading process Harry could not resist helping himself to some grapes for all his hard work.

The juice was transported to Boplaas, where it has been incorporated as part of the traditional vinified portion.

Two types of wine will be produced, namely a Boplaas Elephant Rosé 2008 and Boplaas Elephant Chardonnay 2008. This will be a limited wine released under its own label and sold in chosen restaurants and wine shops. The treading process will also be broadcast by Top Billing in middle February 2008.

Part of the proceeds will be donated to elephant research projects and conservation. It is good to know that small gestures help build awareness towards their presence in Knysna and South Africa.

Visit the Boplaas website - www.boplaas.co.za or Knysna Elephant Park - www.knysnaelephantpark.co.za for more information.