Team
Isaac
Philips
Cellar and Vineyard Assistant
Isaac is an all-rounder. He helps with the whole wine production process - from pruning and spraying of vines; washing, stacking and racking of barrels and even stands in as resident barista for events!
Simon
Farr
Shareholder
Simon started his involvement in wine in the vineyards of Bordeaux in 1973, followed by working in the London wine trade and in a winery in California. In1982, Simon founded Bibendum Wine Limited which has grown over the years into the largest independent wine merchant in the UK. Simon met David & Rita the day before their wedding and Bibendum became their importer for de Trafford in the UK.
Quentin
Hurt
Shareholder
Quentin’s interest in wine brought him into contact with David in the mid-nineties. When a share became available in the Malgas venture in 2009, he seized the opportunity. The quality of the wines, the challenge of the new venture and David’s and Simon’s track record attracted him and Alison to the project.
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David & Rita
Trafford
Winemaker and Shareholder
Qualified as an architect and formally untrained as a winemaker, David works alongside his wife Rita, a talented artist. Together, they fell in love with the Sijnn terroir in 2000, and set about making their mark with planting the first appellation in the region. David is also winemaker at the celebrated De Trafford Winery in Stellenbosch and is a member of the Cape Winemaker's Guild.
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Charla Haasbroek
Winemaker
Charla joined our team in December 2014 as Assistant Winemaker. She qualified in 2012 at the University of Stellenbosch and has worked harvests at Kanonkop and Tokara and managed the wine shop at Die Oude Bakerij in Stellenbosch, before working a harvest at Margerum in California.
Fred
Fismer
Assistant Winemaker
Fred Joined the Team in August 2018. He received his degree in viticulture and oenology from Stellenbosch University. As well as assisting with all aspects of the viticulture and vinification, Fred also plays an important role in the sales and marketing of Sijnn
Harry & Elizabeth Pietersen
Maitrê de Chais & Tasting Room Manager
Harry and his wife Elizabeth joined the team in 2010. As well as helping in the vineyards, Elizabeth runs the tasting room every Saturday from 10am – 3pm and Harry manages the daily running of the cellar.