Hazendal Wine Estate
The Cape Wine Region is world renowned for its abundance of quality wines, but no estate offers anything quite like Hazendal. With a unique blend of South African and Russian influences, this 300 year old farm produces more than just a simple wine, but rather offers a most intriguing day out.
This eclectic mix of Cape Dutch and Russian cultures lies between Cape Town's northern suburbs and the quaint town of Stellenbosch. With the picturesque Bottelary Hills as a backdrop, this wine estate has arguably one of the best locations in the Cape. Established in 1699, by the end of the 20th century this once prosperous estate had fallen to ruin. But thanks to his ever keen eye for potential, this prime farm was snapped up in 1994 by Dr Mark Voloshin and the Marvol Group. The Russian entrepreneur lovingly restored each aspect of the estate, not only returning it to its former glory but creating a wine experience that was truly better than ever.
The Fusion of Russian and Cape Culture
A day out at Hazendal is an experience that cannot be matched by any other wine estate. The beautifully restored Cape Dutch architecture transports visitors back to another time and the rolling lawns are the ideal place for a family picnic. The beautifully decorated restaurant offers a synthesis of Russian and South African delicacies, and pre-ordered picnic baskets offer a unique way to enjoy fine dining under the trees.
This mix of cultures also extends to the wine that Hazendal produces. Ronel Wiid is the estate's trusted winemaker and makes full use of the two incredible cultures at Hazendal's disposal. The two distinct ranges of wine produced by Hazendal - the premium label Hazendal and Kleine Hazen - are revered throughout the Cape Winelands and far beyond. This cultural alliance between Russia and the Cape has created some of the region's most unique wines and every visit to the estate should include a delectable wine tasting.
A New Generation at Hazendal
Today, the Hazendal Estate has become a complete family affair. In 2006, Dr Mark Voloshin and his trusted friend and business partner Leo Schumacher entrusted their beloved estate to their highly capable young families. Leonid, Schumacher's son now heads up the management team for all of Marvol's activities in South Africa, while his daughter Rebecca and daughter-in-law Vera have become the restaurant and function managers at Hazendal. Simone Voloshin, Dr Voloshin's own daughter now oversees wine marketing and sales and each of these "children" bring a fresh and innovative aspect to the wine estate that has seen it go from strength to strength. This family-run tradition is one that characterizes the estate and is one that is set to ensure the prosperous future of the historical and beautiful Hazendal.
Find out more about Dr Voloshin and his other incredible projects and ventures in South Africa by bookmarking this space - his own personal website to be launched soon