At a recent media lunch kindly hosted by the Western Cape Government, I was given the opportunity to comment on the journey leading to Creation attaining its position as No 10 in the World’s Best Vineyards 2021 and No 1 in Africa.

Here is an excerpt:

Since 2002, we have put our passion and energy into making world-class wines, such as our Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. We have designed delicious and imaginative seasonal menus using fresh, locally sourced produce. We have trained and developed our team to deliver excellent service and are delighted with their enthusiasm and knowledge.

We have focused on sustainable and responsible tourism. We have encouraged our guests to explore our estate and experience the champagne air of this wonderful Western Cape region.  In any given year, we were fortunate to host up to 60 000 guests.

Then the pandemic threatened to bring not only our business but the entire wine and hospitality industry to a halt.  This is where our true South African grit came to the fore. Our achievement is a testament to the spirit of the team at Creation who are dedicated to not only building an innovative brand but also to co-elevating each other.

Over the tough months, we got creative and designed virtual tasting kits that we dispatched locally, and internationally, to keep our customers engaged. We packed and delivered food parcels knowing how the communities around us were buckling under the impact of the pandemic. We skilled up with specialist training courses to make the most of lockdowns. When we could open for business again, we were able to greet our guests with renewed energy and warmth, with new menus and new experiences.

No one could be prouder than Jean-Claude and me: of our team, our suppliers and our customers. This global award is not just for Creation, it is a tribute to all our stakeholders.