Doolhof wine estate appoints new winemaker

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.