It is with great sadness that we learned of the sudden passing of Martin Moore, cellarmaster at Durbanville Hills on Monday, 22 May.
Martin started his journey with Durbanville Hills in 1998, when the foundations were laid. He was responsible for their very first vintage in 1999.
Martin was known for creating stellar wines and driving the Durbanville Hills brand in becoming a global household name. His knowledge was not limited to winemaking only; he also had a deep understanding of the terroir and a warm adoration for the people of the region.
Albert Gerber, managing director of Durbanville Hills, paid tribute to Martin’s expertise, passion for wine and his engaging personality:
"Martin understood the art of winemaking as well as the marketing and selling of wine. He walked the streets and listed Durbanville Hills in almost every restaurant he visited. He stayed close to the marketing and sales teams and via his passion, jokes and amazing story-telling skills he made everyone that he interacted with a Durbanville Hills lover and ambassador."
"His cupboard full of wine awards pays tribute to the extraordinary winemaker he was. His loyal Durbanville Hills consumers, customers and friends in the trade and sales teams are testimony to the great personality he was."
"You will be deeply missed, Martin – thank you for being an amazing winemaker and person!"
He was a proud father who always boasted about his boys' achievements. Our prayers and thoughts are with the Moore family in this time of grief and sadness.
Martin's sense of humour, charisma, and passion for wine (and food) was beyond measure. He will be missed.
Details of the funeral service will be communicated once confirmed.