Winemakers
The Beast
Winemakers
Franschhoek
South Africa
Rugby
- Winemakers
- Franschhoek
- South Africa
- Rugby
Behind
The Wine
Discover our
Sporting Connection
Tendai Mtawarira – or ‘The Beast’ as he is affectionately known – is one of the most iconic players to have ever represented South African and Springboks. The powerful former prop, played 117 Tests for the Springboks, only behind Bryan Habana and Victor Matfield on the all-time list for national appearances. He also finished his career as the most capped Super Rugby player in South Africa, having featured in 159 games for the Sharks. Tendai earned his first Springbok cap in 2008, while he burst onto the international scene with a stunning performance as a 23-year-old in the successful 2009 series against the British & Irish Lions. Almost exactly 10 years later, he hung up his boots after playing a key role in the Boks’ victorious performance in the 2019 World Cup final against England.
Exlporing the
Vineyard
Located in the top, southern-most corner of the Franschhoek Valley, in the embrace of its spectacular mountains, the 22 hectare Holden Manz Wine Estate is situated between the Franschhoek River and Stony Brook at 300 meters above sea level. An exclusive grower of red grapes, the Estate only cultivates its top 16 hectares under vineyards, notably Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot. Long, cold and wet winters allow the vines to rest well, while hot dry summers and a gentle autumn allows for slow ripening. Featuring a rich and diverse terroir influenced by its unique natural surroundings, with 3 different soil types and a marked seasonal climate, the estate’s vineyards are perfectly suited to their intention – the production of ultra-premium wines made for the discerning wine connoisseur.
“The Beast was introduced to me by mutual connections. I played rugby from 8 years old until I was 35 and have always been an avid follower of the game. I was intrigued to meet a Rugby World Cup Winner, albeit against the national team I have supported for many years, England, and a man who could inspire a whole stadium with a cry of Beeeeest! After meeting the man I was stuck by his sense of serenity and style. He can certainly command a room. We tasted many wines together and eventually honed in on the wine which has become the Beast Red Blend. An equal blend of cabernet sauvignon and syrah this is definitely a New World styled wine – just like the Beast! It is smooth on the palate with a long lasting finish but full bodied and packs a punch!” – Gerard Holden (Winemaker)
Exlporing the
Vineyard
Located in the top, southern-most corner of the Franschhoek Valley, in the embrace of its spectacular mountains, the 22 hectare Holden Manz Wine Estate is situated between the Franschhoek River and Stony Brook at 300 meters above sea level. An exclusive grower of red grapes, the Estate only cultivates its top 16 hectares under vineyards, notably Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot. Long, cold and wet winters allow the vines to rest well, while hot dry summers and a gentle autumn allows for slow ripening. Featuring a rich and diverse terroir influenced by its unique natural surroundings, with 3 different soil types and a marked seasonal climate, the estate’s vineyards are perfectly suited to their intention – the production of ultra-premium wines made for the discerning wine connoisseur.
“The Beast was introduced to me by mutual connections. I played rugby from 8 years old until I was 35 and have always been an avid follower of the game. I was intrigued to meet a Rugby World Cup Winner, albeit against the national team I have supported for many years, England, and a man who could inspire a whole stadium with a cry of Beeeeest! After meeting the man I was stuck by his sense of serenity and style. He can certainly command a room. We tasted many wines together and eventually honed in on the wine which has become the Beast Red Blend. An equal blend of cabernet sauvignon and syrah this is definitely a New World styled wine – just like the Beast! It is smooth on the palate with a long lasting finish but full bodied and packs a punch!” – Gerard Holden (Winemaker)
Meet
The Winemaker
The Beast
