In one of South Africa’s vibrant townships, The Township Winery is reshaping the wine industry by infusing local culture and community development into every bottle. The winery’s journey began with a visionary dream—one that intertwines heritage, empowerment, and a deep passion for winemaking.
The Township Winery was born from the dream of Kate Jambela, a successful builder in Cape Town’s townships. After constructing over 5,000 homes under the RDP system, Jambela envisioned something entirely new: “I want my own vineyard and I want to learn how to make my own wine.” Partnering with Graham Knox, a seasoned wine entrepreneur, her dream evolved into a mission to bring vineyards and a wine culture to the townships adjacent to the Cape Winelands.
The winery’s purpose extends beyond producing fine wines—it seeks to cultivate a sense of ownership and pride within these communities. By enabling resident-owned vineyards and production facilities, The Township Winery is breaking new ground and creating economic opportunities where they did not previously exist.
Wine with a purpose
The winery’s mission is about more than just crafting wines. Their focus is to nourish a wine culture in the townships, while generating revenue that can uplift residents and provide opportunities, including funding education. Through partnerships with local schools in Khayelitsha, the winery engages students, parents, and educators in the Schools Vineyard Project—a pioneering initiative offering practical skills and employment prospects in viticulture.
The winery’s emphasis on empowerment is one of the things that sets it apart. Its production, ownership model, and marketing strategies aim to inspire a new generation of winemakers and wine lovers in the community.
Crafting unique wines
Operating with limited financial resources has encouraged The Township Winery to adopt a handcrafted, artisanal approach. Their wines are made with meticulous attention to detail, often in small batches, to ensure the highest quality. The use of grapes with maritime influence—grown in windy, coastal vineyards—shapes the winery’s flagship wines.
Among their most notable offerings are:
- The Mailbox Block Chenin Blanc: This wine is made from grapes harvested from a certified heritage vineyard planted in 1987. Aged in oak barrels for over a year, this Chenin Blanc offers complexity and depth. It recently earned 93 points and a silver medal in a national wine competition, reflecting its exceptional craftsmanship.
- Argument Corner Field Blend Red: This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz comes from vines that ripen simultaneously, despite growing in different orientations. The result is a well-balanced wine with a distinct character, representing the community-driven ethos behind its production.
Building community through wine
Community involvement lies at the heart of The Township Winery’s operations. The Schools Vineyard Project exemplifies their commitment to the Khayelitsha community by involving local learners, educators, and parents in vineyard establishment and care. This initiative not only provides skills and jobs but also fosters a deeper connection between the residents and the wine they produce.
At the winery’s tasting venues, visitors can enjoy a curated wine experience at two unique locations. Whether through a cellar tour at the Goede Hoop winery or a township tour combined with a tasting at Milisa Guest House in Khayelitsha, guests gain a deeper appreciation for both the wine and the community.
Challenges and future growth
Establishing a wine business without significant investment has been a long journey. However, the passion and perseverance of the winery’s team have fueled their progress. Led by Wayne Arendse, a SKOP academy graduate who rose from humble beginnings to become cellarmaster, the team’s knowledge and dedication are integral to the winery’s success.
Looking ahead, The Township Winery plans to expand its markets both locally and internationally. Their goal is to build a sustainable, inclusive future for the community by continuing to invest in education and providing more opportunities for talented youth within the wine industry.
At its core, The Township Winery celebrates the intersection of heritage and innovation. By fostering a wine culture in places not traditionally associated with viticulture, the winery is creating a legacy that extends beyond the Cape Winelands. Their efforts symbolise a bridge between old traditions and new beginnings—one where the stories of the townships are reflected in every sip.
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Images: Supplied
