Thursday, 21 August, 2014
Doolhof Wine Estate
Gielie will be working closely with Rianie Strydom, Doolhof Wine
Estate’s winemaking consultant for the past two years. Gielie, who completed
his studies at Elsenburg Agricultural College and worked extensively abroad, is
excited and proud to be part of the Doolhof team and what they have created in
their reasonably short journey.
“I’m looking forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to the
exceptional Doolhof brand. Making a positive contribution and growing the
business will be my utmost goal. I believe in team work and success that will
follow if we work respectfully with nature and what we are given as a
foundation. Living by this philosophy every day makes me excited about my
future here at Doolhof Wine Estate.”
According to Johan Fourie, general manager at Doolhof Wine Estate, wine
markets have opened up for the Doolhof brand and exports have shown exceptional
growth during the past few years. “Having a winemaker that has the knowledge of
how we do business and is committed to our winemaking philosophy, is paramount
to the success of the brand. Gielie is a perfect addition to our team. I am
excited about the innovative and exceptional team Rianie and Gielie will make
and look forward to a long and successful relationship.”
Doolhof is located high in the historic Bovlei valley, north east of
Wellington. The name Doolhof means “labyrinth” in Afrikaans and it is believed
the name originated when settlers first set sight on the beautiful valley, with
its labyrinthine topography. The first wines under the Doolhof label were
launched in 2005 and today this cellar boasts an exception wine portfolio with
local and international acclaim.
The 390 hectare property is an accredited member of the Biodiversity in
Wine Initiative which is an industry wide project to help promote the
conservation of fynbos, therefore two blocks of land; 50 hectares each beneath
Bains Kloof Pass have been identified for clearing and monitoring regarding
alien plant invasion.