Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp – media personality, Eat Out Awards emcee, entrepreneur and mother – has embarked on an inspiring journey of collaboration with the prestigious De Grendel Wine Estate to introduce Annabelle Shiraz.
This venture not only celebrates the art of winemaking but also supports aspiring sommeliers from underprivileged backgrounds through the creation of the Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp & De Grendel Sommelier Bursary, in association with the South African Sommelier Association.
“Using our talent for good, and to effect change, is a cornerstone of my upbringing. My father always taught us to help where we can, and where we see a need,” says Elana. “Launching this new label, named after my youngest daughter, is a blessing. Being able to help a previously disadvantaged learner through the support of our wine-buying community is the highest honour for me. Winemaking is a hobby for me, but finally, we can help someone through this.”
Crafted in the birth year of her youngest daughter, Annabelle, the 2017 vintage of Annabelle Shiraz represents a celebration of new beginnings and the support Elana has experienced along her motherhood journey.
Elana is no stranger to the world of winemaking, having previously won the Michelangelo Gold award for her label “Elana Wine” in 2012, but the Annabelle Shiraz is far more than a fine wine; it symbolises a collaborative effort to promote positive change within the wine industry and beyond.
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The Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp & De Grendel Sommelier Bursary
A portion of the proceeds from the sales of Annabelle Shiraz will go to the Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp & De Grendel Sommelier Bursary, an initiative aimed at providing opportunities for aspiring sommeliers from underprivileged backgrounds.
Through this bursary, the partnership between De Grendel Wine Estate, Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp and the South African Sommelier Association seeks to promote diversity within the sommelier profession by covering the education, training and mentorship of a selected aspirant sommelier, empowering them to pursue their dreams and contribute to thrive in the dynamic wine industry.
Elana expressed her excitement about the collaboration, sharing: “The Annabelle Shiraz is a celebration of both the beauty of life’s moments and the power of giving back. By partnering with De Grendel Wine Estate and the South African Sommelier Association, we are not only sharing exceptional wines but also creating a meaningful pathway for aspiring sommeliers who deserve a chance to shine.”
Charles Hopkins, cellar master at De Grendel Wine Estate, added: “We are honoured to join hands with Elana on this incredible journey. The Annabelle Wine embodies our shared values of quality, innovation, and social responsibility. This collaboration allows us to contribute to the growth of the wine community while producing wines that tell a story of dedication and craftsmanship.”
The Annabelle Shiraz
With an enticing deep ruby hue, the Annabelle Shiraz offers a complex bouquet of ripe blackberries and plums intertwined with subtle hints of smoky oak and a touch of black pepper. The nuanced character makes it an ideal accompaniment for a range of culinary delights. From grilled meats to tender beef stews to charred eggplant, its velvety texture and rich flavours harmonise beautifully. Making each sip a special moment.
The limited edition production is set to inspire wine enthusiasts, empower future sommeliers, and create a legacy of positive change within the wine industry!
The Annabelle Shiraz will be sold exclusively at De Grendel Wine Estate at their Tasting Room and Restaurant, and online at www.degrendel.co.za.
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