Debbie Thompson's Rise in South Africa's Wine Industry

The partnered boutique wineries "Stellenview" and "Le Grand Domaine" in the Devon Valley of South Africa's Stellenbosch region are garnering awards for their exceptional wines. Since early 2020, winemaker Debbie Thompson has focused on crafting wines that embody the terroir and essence of the grapes. Remarkably, she is attracting attention in this typically male-dominated industry. "Excellent wine can only be made from excellent grapes," she believes.

A Keen Sense for Premium Wines

“Le Grand Domaine” and "Stellenview" are situated at the front of the breathtaking Devon Valley, showcasing views of the majestic Stellenbosch mountains. This wine region, although historically producing wines since the 18th century, remains a hidden gem in the industry. For years, its red wines have been renowned for their quality, and that continues today.

Since 2016, the boutique winery “Le Grand Domaine” has been led by Bernard Fontannaz, who also founded the premium wine company “Origin Vineyards.” He is dedicated to enhancing premium wine production in South Africa and additionally owns vineyards in both Argentina and Switzerland. Following a “Chateaux concept,” he produces outstanding Bordeaux blends. “Stellenview”, owned by Reino Kruger, boasts over 20 years in the wine industry. His motto is: "Wine is never a job – it's a lifestyle!" Together with his team, they curate remarkable wines, from accessible to premium. In Debbie Thompson, they found the ideal winemaker who effortlessly crafts these premium wines.

The First Female Winemaker at "Simonsig"

“Le Grand Domaine” marks just the second chapter in Debbie Thompson's journey as a winemaker. Previously, she dedicated two decades to “Simonsig” under the mentorship of owner and head winemaker Johan Malan, her central influence. He instilled in her a strong work ethic and impressed her with his viniculture knowledge. As the first female winemaker at “Simonsig,” she was responsible for red wine production for 18 years before becoming cellar master. A couple of years later, she transitioned to the smaller yet more exclusive cellar of “Le Grand Domaine” and "Stellenview" to broaden her winemaking expertise.

Inspiration from the "Wine Virus" in Stellenbosch

Debbie Thompson originally hails from the arid Namaqualand region in northwest South Africa. Following the early demise of her father, the family relocated to Springbok, where she initially intended to pursue a veterinary medicine career. Realizing that would require leaving her home and friends, she eventually transitioned to Stellenbosch University, obtaining her "Bachelor of Science." During a visit to the Cape Winelands, her interest in wine was sparked, leading her to further her education in Viticulture and Oenology. This decision made her a happier person, as she would later reflect.

The Freedom to Create Exciting New Wines

Debbie Thompson's move from “Simonsig” to "Stellenview" and “Le Grand Domaine” presented a significant challenge. The new cellar is much smaller than her previous role, introducing several new hurdles. Always working with red wines, she found it necessary to embrace other wine styles. Despite this, she was fortunate to find a proficient team of three women and two men. Her assistant in the cellar, Martinique de Bruin, hails from the prestigious "Thelema" winery, along with top winemaker Deon Joubert as part of her team. The owner, Bernard Fontannaz, has granted her the freedom to challenge herself and push boundaries in crafting innovative and exciting wines.

A Chain of Awards for Wines from "Le Grand Domaine" and "Stellenview"

Shortly after her arrival, the first accolades came: At Platter, she earned four and a half stars for her “The Pledge Darling Sauvignon Blanc 2020” as well as for the “Grand Vin Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2020” and the “Grand Vin Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2020”. Four stars were awarded for the “Grand Vin Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2019” and the “Grand Vin Selection Rosé 2020”. She also claimed "Double Gold" for the “Pledge Our Darling Sauvignon Blanc 2020”, with two Gold awards for the “Pledge Our Darling Sauvignon Blanc 2021” and the “Grand Vin Sauvignon Blanc 2021”. The winery's inaugural Cap Classique will be released this year, promising substantial anticipation.

Stellenview Wines are equally impressive. The Kruger Family Reserve Shiraz 2017 bagged double gold at Michelangelo, 4.5 stars at John Platter, and Veritas Gold. The Kruger Sauvignon Blanc 2018 received a Veritas Silver Medal, while the 2020 vintage took double gold at Michelangelo. Michelangelo Gold was awarded to the Stellenview Reserve Shiraz 2017, Great Five Reserve Merlot 2017, Great Five Reserve Pinotage 2018, and Great Five Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2018.

Norma Ratcliffe as a Major Inspiration

The numerous awards have brought Debbie Thompson recognition in the wine industry and significant confidence to pursue her dreams. Her greatest motive lies in showing her mettle within South Africa’s male-dominated wine sector. She maintains that creating outstanding wines requires qualified staff. Her key inspiration is wine legend Norma Ratcliffe from Warwick Wines. Debbie admires her strength, remarkable resilience, ambition, and humility in her success. She learned from Norma that the cellar tolerates no mistakes and that hard work is essential.

Ambitious Objectives for the Upcoming Season

It's no surprise that Debbie Thompson has set remarkable goals for the upcoming season: With grapes from the vineyards of “Le Grand Domaine” situated at altitudes between 600 to 1200 meters, she plans for grand projects. A Pinotage along with other varieties are intended to expand “Le Grand Domaine's” portfolio. An MCC is also planned alongside a “Le Grand Domaine Enoteca.” All delightful offerings will be available for tasting at the newly established wine bar in Church Street, Stellenbosch, housing Le Grand Vin Stellenbosch and Stellenview.