The Beginning of The Vine

To every gripping story, there is an unbelievable setting. My story begins at a place called Babylonstoren Farm.

This is the place I was allowed to explore what it was to be in tune with the generosity of the Earth.

The volunteer program of the farm (ran by Brent and Liesl) has given me more wisdom and appreciation than I could have ever imagined.

This very history-rich farm was also the place that I was able to discover my love and passion for South African wines. During my volunteer time, I was introduced to Head Winemaker, Klaas Stoffberg and he awarded me the opportunity to learn more about the ancient craft of winemaking.

My 17-year-old self would never have believed me if I had said that in the next two years, I would be learning how to clean wine tanks at one of the most esteemed wine farms in the country.

I loved watching everyone work in the cellar. The way the team would communicate to fix an issue left me intrigued (and not because they spoke Afrikaans). In every brainstorm and morning meeting, I was included: This meant that I had to adapt to the pace of Afrikaans if I wanted to learn anything.

My time on the farm has shifted my views on agriculture and winemaking as a whole, and it is all thanks to the very large team at Babylonstoren.

I owe everything to the very first place that gave me a chance to learn and gain experience as a young student.