I got to know Mike when his son Allister worked for wine.co.za many years back.
Mike has always been a generous, friendly and warm person, and we offer our sincere condolences to his family at this difficult time.
NEWS FROM WINES OF ELGIN
It is with shock and great sadness that we share the news of Mike Kreft’s passing at the weekend.
Mike, co-owner and winemaker at Belfield Wines - Elgin’s smallest wine estate - has been part of the Elgin wine community for 18 years. Mike and his wife, Mel, always dreamed of owning their own estate and they purchased Belfield in 2000. Mike was one of the pioneers to plant red grapes in the Elgin valley, contrary to the popular movement towards white varietals in the region at that time. His decision has since been justified many times over through the awards garnered by his trio of small batch, single vineyard wines, vintage by vintage.
Apart from his reputation as an excellent and passionate winemaker, all those who met him knew him to be incredibly warm, generous and welcoming.
The South African wine industry has suffered a great loss with Mike’s passing, and we as the Elgin community have lost a beloved friend. Our most heartfelt condolences and sympathies go out to his wife Mel and the entire Kreft family. May you always rest in peace, Mike. You will be greatly missed.
Marion Smith
Wines of Elgin Chairperson