The Story of Vin D'Almar
The journey of Vin d’Almar began not in vineyards or cellars, but in a moment of profound personal transformation. In 2003, following a life-altering back operation that left me unable to walk, I found myself facing the fragility of life with a renewed desire for meaning. Though my body was still, my spirit stirred — and with that, a new path began to unfold.
In 2005, we left behind the rhythms of Gauteng for the beauty of the Boland — a land of rolling vineyards, golden light, and age-old winemaking traditions. Captivated by this world, I enrolled in a winemaking course at Stellenbosch University. The vines had found me — or perhaps, I had finally found them.
In 2007, I crafted my very first wine: a Shiraz, fermented just outside our house. It was humble in setting, but profound in impact. That single vintage lit a fire that would never go out. I committed myself to the art of winemaking — heart, soul, and every ounce of passion I had left.
The name Vin d’Almar comes from a story I once read, and for me, it has always meant “from the heart and soul.” And that is what wine became: not a product, but a lifeline. An artwork, shaped by hands and hope, forged in moments when life’s challenges demanded courage.
Since then, I’ve been blessed to work across renowned estates — from Chateau Beau Belle to Vredenheim — and to receive honours including Double Gold at the London International Wine Show and a Veritas Silver. I opened a gin bar, launched a project in Shere, and now, in Lanseria, I’m proud to contribute to the first ever Wine of Origin Lanseria.
Today, we continue this journey on the West Coast, developing a small, French-inspired cellar in St Helena Bay — a quiet corner where time slows, and winemaking remains an act of devotion.
To me, wine is more than craft — it is inspiration made tangible, a vessel of meaning, a way out of silence. Through every vintage, I rediscover purpose.
Vin d’Almar is not just wine. It is the life I chose to live, one pour at a time.
