Respected and well-loved Gauteng-based former restaurateur and sommelier, Frits Brune, has been appointed as the sales manager for the Franschhoek wine, fruit and herb estate, Allée Bleue Estate.
Brune comes with a wealth of wine experience and a very solid network in the restaurant and fine wine fraternities.
"The combination of his sommelier qualification, premium wine sales experience and immense passion for wine and people sets Frits apart. People buy wine from people – this truism is part of what makes wine special and Frits’ knowledge and contagious love for wine has proven to not only open doors for the wines that he represents, but the wine industry at large," explains Allée Bleue’s chief executive officer, Dr Edo Heyns.
Allée Bleue celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The Dauphin family has developed the 207-hectare estate into an iconic wine destination and producer of fruit and fresh herbs. Brune’s appointment coincides with a notable renewal drive, including new vineyard plantings and expansion of the estate’s fresh herb production.
"Allée Bleue just has so much to offer! The wine portfolio is truly impressive – from well-known favourites such as the Allée Bleue Pinotage and award-winning Sauvignon Blanc to the single vineyard, old vine Isabeau Chardonnay, the wines reflect precision, authenticity and character. I am equally excited to work with the excellent Allée Bleue Estate Olive Oil, while the fresh herbs offer exciting opportunities to collaborate with chefs and restaurant partners," explains Brune.
Frits will be based in Gauteng and will work with a network of high-end focussed regional agents and distributors, including Raath Promotions in Cape Town, Wine Roots in the Garden Route, and Mighty Brand Merchants in KZN.