The grape doesn’t fall far from the vine in the case of Tammy Jeftha, who inherited her love of winemaking from her father
Tammy Jeftha, who grew up in Somerset West outside Cape Town, developed an interest in wine after seeing a tasting held at her school when she was 16. She was inspired by the experience and decided to job-shadow her father, Rydal Jeftha, the managing director of Koopmanskloof Wines. That’s when the proverbial bug bit.
After completing a four-year degree in Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Stellenbosch, Tammy completed a three-year internship through the Cape Winemakers Guild’s Protégé Programme and is today an assistant winemaker at Hartenberg Wine Estate.
WINEMAKING HEROES?
Villiera’s Jeff Grier, who isn’t afraid to try new things, and Hartenberg’s Carl Schultz, who never compromises on quality.
ON YOUR WINEMAKER'S BUCKET LIST?
To one day become a head winemaker and start a family brand with my father, Rydal. I would also love to do a harvest in a foreign country.
TIPS FOR ASPIRING WINEMAKERS?
The industry is what you make of it. Approach every opportunity with enthusiasm.
THOUGHTS ON RIESLING?
Because it has small berries, this variety has more concentrated flavours and aromas. It goes very well with spicy dishes.
FAVOURITE WINE STYLES?
Brut sparkling wines, Bordeaux blends and Rhône blends.
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PROUDEST MOMENT?
Making my own wine, which is a blend of Shiraz and Pinotage. It took hard work, which eventually paid off .
BEST FOOD-AND-WINE PAIRING?
Ostrich fillet with a glass of Hartenberg The Stork Shiraz.
FAVOURITE PART OF AUTUMN?
It has to be the autumn colours. Gold, green and brown leaves everywhere.
FAVOURITE DINNER-PARTY DISH TO MAKE?
My mom’s seafood Thermidor paired with a lovely crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
TOP EASY WEEKDAY SUPPER?
A green salad made with smoked chicken, avocado and mango.
BEST MUSIC TO MAKE WINE TO?
Kari Jobe, Israel Houghton and Adele.
FAVOURITE MOVIE?
Any suspense thriller, preferably featuring my favourite actor, Denzel Washington.
FAVOURITE PIZZA TOPPINGS?
Bacon, chicken, avocado and feta.
GUILTY PLEASURES?
Enjoying salty snacks at odd hours of the morning
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