For a lucky few, there is a definitive moment when the world quietly slips away, and all that remains is an inspired instant between you and the wine that leaves you awestruck. For others, it’s a special memory that confirms your love for wine.
At just 11 years old, Danielle’s uncle inspired her to be a winemaker with his tales of studying winemaking and viticulture from Elsenburg. Yet, it was not until Danielle’s first harvest and tasting through some particularly memorable wines that a deeper love for winemaking blossomed: “Reaping the reward after months of hard work is a profound moment for any winemaker. I’ve also been majorly influenced by some incredible wines I’ve had the privilege of trying, including a 2010 Chateau de Myrat Sauternes Grand Cru, a 2007 Costers del Siurana Priorat Miserere, a 2013 AA Badenhorst White Blend and of course, the 2008 Boschendal Jean Le Long”. While studying viticulture and oenology at Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute, Danielle had her first encounter with the camaraderie and openness that exists within the wine world. This spirit of community and willingness to share knowledge motivated her to continue along with her vocation.
After completing her studies in viticulture and oenology at Elsenburg she went on to work as a winemaker and farm manager at a boutique winery in the Overberg for several years. It was during this formative time that Danielle cemented her approach to winemaking before she joined Boschendal in 2017 heading up the Cap Classique production, from grape to glass.
In 2020 she won Woman Winemaker of the Year and in 2025, the Maiden Vintage release of her first full-cycle Cap Classique at Boschendal, won Sparkling Wine Discovery of the Year with Tim Atkin.
In 2025, Danielle also completed her second degree, having decided in 2019 that she also wanted to understand the commercial and supply chain management requirements within quality wine production and have a deeper understanding of marketing as a business function within the industry. She now holds a B Com, Marketing & Management Science in addition to her B.Agric in Cellar technology.