Winery
Black Elephant Vintners was born out of synchronicity, fortuitous friendships and a love for wine. Goal of the three founders: to make thrilling wine from a very special place, the Franschhoek Valley, one of the oldest wine growing areas of the Cape. Kevin Swart (‘Black’ in Afrikaans) and Raymond Ndlovu (‘Elephant’ in a number of southern African languages) were joined by winemaker Jacques Wentzel in order to realize their shared dream.
“It’s our mission to bring truth to the wine industry and create experiences that turn convention on its head. We believe in truth, in seeing opportunities where others see challenges. To thrive where others fail. To push the boundaries of conformity in an industry that has long forgotten to have fun.”
Wine maker
Jacques Wentzel was born and bred on Robben Island, South Africa’s iconic symbol of political struggle. He was trained in Viticulture & Winemaking at Elsenburg Agricultural College, where he graduated top of the class, and earned his winemaking stripes at the famous Warwick Estate (Stellenbosch) and nearby Môreson (Franschhoek). Jacques: ““It’s not rocket science, I just prefer making clean, healthy wines. Then I have a solid basis and can experiment when it comes to the blending process,”.
Charity
door Lerato Mbele