Winetech information days for cellar assistants

Monday, 8 May, 2023
Santi Basson
The well-known Winetech Cellar Assistant Programme hosted for the first time an information day for cellar assistants during 2022.

Many cellar assistants travelled from districts such as Worcester, Robertson and De Doorns to attend the day in Stellenbosch.

Feedback received from cellars, confirmed a serious need for the development of practical, as well as general knowledge of cellar assistants, which will add value to careers. During 2023 Winetech will host two information days in Stellenbosch and the Breedekloof.

The 2023-programme will cover a wide range of topics, which will give cellar assistants the opportunity to increase their knowledge on different levels. Well-known viti- and viniculturists, such as Lucinda Heyns, Dr Karien O’ Kennedy, Kachnѐ Ross, Elzette Du Preez and Lida Milandra, will present the programme in Afrikaans and English. Greta Grobler, an independent, registered social worker will give useful hints regarding personal budgets and how to avoid stress and conflict.

Participation is free of charge and all cellar assistants are welcome to attend. However, prior booking is compulsory, and enrolments will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Attendance registers will be available electronically and a letter confirming the financial value per person, will be available to all participating cellars.

The programme for both information days will include:

  • Training opportunities in the wine industry.
  • Regenerative farming: what is it and how is it different from conventional, sustainable, organic and biodynamic farming?
  • Help! The wine tastes like an ashtray: The influence of bushfires on wine quality.
  • What, how, why and quantity in the cellar?
  • Wine faults in the cellar – How to identify, prevent and remedy.
  • Financial fitness prevents stress and conflict.


Should your cellar be interested in participating in one of the information days in Stellenbosch or Breedekloof, please contact Santi Basson at santib@mweb.co.za or at 0722 988 186.