Exciting changes are on the horizon at Brookdale Estate with the recent announcement of a new winemaking team.
Current winemaker Kiara Scott Farmer will hand over the reins for the 2025 harvest season to the talented duo, Xander Sadie and Shanice du Preez, as she embarks on her next chapter at Hazendal.
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The new faces of Brookdale’s winemaking team
Having developed his craft at BlankBottle, Xander Sadie joins Brookdale as the estate’s new head winemaker. Bringing a wealth of knowledge from top-tier wineries around the world, including experience at some of South Africa’s best wine producers, and harvests in notable wine regions like Vouvray in France, Portugal’s Douro Valley, and California’s Sonoma Valley.
Rooted in a family tradition of winemaking, Xander has a passion for authenticity in each bottle he crafts.
Joining him is assistant winemaker Shanice du Preez, an emerging talent in South Africa’s wine industry. A graduate of the Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme, Shanice has gathered experience through local and international internships at celebrated wineries such as Groot Constantia, Kanonkop, and De Grendel.
The new faces of Brookdale’s winemaking team. (Left: Xander Sadie, Right: Shanice du Preez).
A legacy of excellence
Since its first vintage in 2017, Brookdale Estate has built a stellar reputation for wines that inspire curiosity, pushing boundaries with each release. This innovative approach was set into motion under the guidance of outgoing winemaker Kiara Scott Farmer, who played a key role in establishing Brookdale’s wines.
During her tenure, Brookdale produced standout wines like the Sixteen White Field Blend, launched in 2021, and established the Mason Road range. Brookdale proprietor Tim Rudd expressed heartfelt gratitude for Kiara’s impactful contributions to the estate.
“Kiara has made an indelible mark on our young brand and our wines. She will be missed, but we’re excited to see her thrive in her next adventure.” – Tim Rudd, Brookdale proprietor
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A new era for Brookdale
With Xander and Shanice now at the helm, Brookdale is poised for another exciting chapter, building on its tradition of excellence while exploring fresh approaches to winemaking. The team will continue to work closely with consultant winemaker Duncan Savage and owner Tim Rudd, whose vision continues to drive Brookdale’s evolution.
As they look ahead to the 2025 harvest, visitors can look forward to tasting new expressions of classic South African favourites. Alongside wine tastings, Brookdale offers a scenic retreat at the Manor House and the Bistro at Brookdale, where guests can enjoy the estate’s wines paired with Chef Gary Coetzee’s new summer menu.
More information
Website: www.brookdale-estate.com
Bookings: Bistro at Brookdale
Socials: Instagram | Facebook
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