In the South African Wine Industry
From managing directors to winemakers, founders, and oenologists – women are leading and significantly shaping the future of the wine industry.
They play a significant role in the wine world, and their influence extends far beyond a single day. Throughout the year, they impress with their dedication, creativity, and passion for viticulture. In South Africa, there is an impressive number of wineries led by strong women. Here, we present seven of these outstanding wine destinations that captivate with their fascinating stories and excellent wines.
Lismore Estate Vineyards
Californian Samantha O’Keefe has found paradise and the perfect terroir. Her passion, combined with vines planted at 300 meters, cooled by winter snow and nourished by the African summer sun, produces classic cool-climate wines that are rich, complex, and handcrafted with great love. She planted vineyards on the slopes of a dramatic mountain range in a previously unknown region and is responsible for establishing Wine of Origin Greyton. Samantha's wines are highly regarded worldwide and receive praise from international critics.
Sjinn Wines
The Tim Atkin Young Winemaker of the Year 2022 went to Charla Bosman. This is a great recognition for Charla, who has been responsible for everything at Malgas since the 2015 harvest, including vineyards, winemaking, sales, and marketing.
Thistle & Weed
Stephanie Wiid, raised in Johannesburg, moved to Stellenbosch to study viticulture and oenology. Wine runs in her family's blood: her grandfather was the famous Niel Joubert of Spier. With a mother who grew up on a wine farm and sisters interested in the final product, Stephanie's path was predestined. She deepened her expertise with a Master's degree in Viticulture at Stellenbosch University.
Charla Bosman
Stephanie Wiid
Hogan Wines
With Hogan Wines, another strong personality enriches the modern South African wine world. Jocelyn Hogan Wilson founded her winery with the vision of creating elegant and terroir-driven wines. After her education in Stellenbosch and international experience, she deliberately chose her own path. Her Chenin Blancs and Rhône-inspired wines stand for finesse, balance, and precision. Jocelyn combines expertise with passion and an instinct for origin. Her wines impress with clarity and structure, making her a prominent voice among South Africa's new generation of winemakers.
Warwick Wine Estate
As CEO of Warwick Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, Christiane von Arnim continues the legacy of the "First Lady of South African Wine," inspired by Norma Ratcliffe, the Cape's first female winemaker and creator of the first Warwick vintage in 1984. An MBA graduate from Stellenbosch University, Christiane joined Warwick in 2018, bringing an impressive track record of experience in the wine business and marketing, having successfully worked at various high-profile South African wineries.
Wolf and Woman
After more than a decade of making a name for herself in the South African wine industry, Jolandie Fouché decided to fully focus on her passionate project Wolf & Woman Wines. Shortly after the release of her first 2018 vintage, Jolandie's Chenin Blanc won the Tim Atkin White Wine Discovery of the Year Award, and her 2019 Chenin was hailed as a Chenin Champion by Jancis Robinson in the Financial Times, alongside some of the established names like the Sadie Family, Chris Alheit, and the Mullineuxs. She is undoubtedly one of the most exciting new-wave producers from South Africa.
Erika Obermeyer Wines
Erika Obermeyer has always surprised her companions. Even in her childhood, she impressed with her extraordinary ability to precisely interpret a wide variety of scents. During her studies, she spontaneously decided to become a winemaker after an excursion. As cellar master at Graham Beck, she later caused a sensation by creating equally impressive still wines alongside the legendary sparkling wines. In 2016, she took the expected step into self-employment. Her search for the ideal vineyards required patience, but the result is fresh, elegant, and multifaceted wines that reflect her personal vision.
Waterkloof Wine Estate
During her time at Waterkloof, Nadia Barnard has recognized the essential aspects of quality vines and wines by living and working in harmony with nature. She firmly believes in Waterkloof's biodynamic and organic philosophies. As a winemaker, she knows every square inch of the vineyard on the farm like the back of her hand and recognizes the amazing potential within them.
Erika Obermeyer
Nadia Barnard
Our Women’s Day Special Deals
The talents of women in the wine industry don't need a special occasion to be highlighted. However, International Women's Day provides an ideal opportunity to shed light on the achievements of women from across the industry and around the world.
Let yourself be inspired by their stories and discover the diversity and quality of South African wines, shaped by strong female hands.
Benefit from our unique Women's Power promotion for 48 hours! A special offer that is only available for a short time, and at the same time a tribute and celebration of all women. Grab it while stocks last!
All prices in CHF incl. VAT. Daily price as of 05.03.2026.
