Smiley Lizelle Gerber is Boschendal’s white winemaker. When she’s not turning grapes into wine, she indulges in her other passion, gardening. This can involve anything from planting poppies, to chasing her husband, Gawie, around the garden.

Have you ever made red wines?

I’ve actually always made red wines!  The red and white grapes come in different batches into the cellar, so it’s better that each of us (Thinus Kruger is the red winemaker) focus on the separate loads. We both have input in the final blending stages.

Where did you study?

When I finished school, I went to the military for a year and did basic training. So, I can kick your ass! (laughs) I ended up studying at Elsenberg quite by chance. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, and when I saw the winemaking course, it intrigued me.

What makes a wine stylish?

The packaging may initially attract people to a bottle of wine. But, it’s what’s inside that counts. A stylish wine oozes sensuality, portrays confidence and leaves a lasting impression.

What’s it like being a woman in a man’s world?

I think that’s a cliché. A lot of woman are already doing “men’s” jobs. It boils down to experience, not gender. Granted, men can be quite cheeky, but you have to take it with a pinch of salt.

The hardest part of the job?
Making sure, I communicate my exacting standards, and that my staff follow through with them. Luckily, at Boschendal, my staff is superb.

The best part of the job?
Having a final product that I’m really proud of and knowing the consumer enjoys it as much as I do. And, winning awards is the cherry on top!

What is your winemaking philosophy?

Respecting the grapes as they come in and protecting the juice the fruit gives me. From this philosophy, I create a wine with an elegant flavour profile and great structure.

What will you be drinking this summer?

Our new kid on the block,  the Boschendal Grande Cuveé Brut 2006.

To view more on Boschendal click here.