Ronell Wiid was born in Durban where she was surrounded by sand and sea rather than vineyards and grapes. Her studies in geology led her to work in a lab in Blaauwklippen before the call of the outdoors became too strong and she made the move down to the Stellenbosch vineyards to embark on a career in viticulture.

Ronell Wiid got to know the Stellenbosch vineyards by working at Boschendal Wine Estate for nine years before joining the Hazendal team. For her last five years at Boschendal, Ronell perfected the art of red winemaking and proved her multi-tasking abilities when she produced one of the estate's finest vintages, while nursing her first son Jasper.

Ronell's move to a boutique winery such as Hazendal in 1998 saw her taking on more responsibility and being fully in charge of the Hazendal's wine portfolio. Seeing the project as her own biggest personal challenge, Ronell has been a vital part of the revitalisation of this spectacular wine estate.

DINERS CLUB FIRST FEMALE WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR

The Diners Club Winemaker of the Year Award is a coveted annual award celebrating a particular winemaker for their contribution in a certain wine category. It was Ronell Wiid's Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon blend in the 1999 category for an outstanding blend that took the prize. Produced while Ronell was nursing her second son Harry, this wine is a triumph of her dedication and has an earthy, spicy upfront nose with plum, blackcurrant and dark chocolate aromas met by a delightfully spicy aftertaste.

In Diners Club two decade history, no female winemaker had ever won this coveted award, making Ronell's achievement even more special, while also proving that Ronell's signature enthusiasm and skill make for a winning combination.

RONELL WIID'S SIGNATURE WINES

Ronell Wiid is an important element of what makes Hazendal the incredible wine estate that it is. The Russian influences naturally mix with traditional Cape Dutch winemaking practices to create a unique and exciting blend of cultures. This mix is artfully brought together in the wines themselves thanks to Ronell's skills and own adventurous winemaking spirit. Her use of natural processes is the perfect way to successfully blend all these influences together and create the award-winning wines that Hazendal Wine Estate is famous for. Watch out for Ronell's Premium Label Hazendal and easy drinking Kleine Hazen wines, two of her signature blends that are truly unique to this Stellenbosch vineyard and its excellent winemaker.

Find out more about the Shiraz wines and other vintages that Ronell Wiid and Hazendal are famous for.