Uncertain about her career path after enrolling at Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute, Mia Burger (25) worked part-time at Joostenberg’s tasting room, where she struck up a conversation with winemaker Tyrrel Myburgh. He offered her a chance to help out during harvest. The experience ignited her passion for winemaking.
After completing her studies, she joined the Joostenberg winemaking team, going from cellar hand to assistant winemaker. Under Tyrrel’s mentorship she transitioned from a hesitant observer to an eager learner, soaking up every bit of knowledge and insight he shared.
His belief in her abilities served as both a catalyst for her career and a beacon of hope and possibility, illuminating her path ahead. “I’ve flourished under Tyrrel’s mentorship,” she says. “His patience, encouragement and boundless belief in my abilities have fuelled my confidence and inspired me to push beyond my limits. At Tyrell’s side, I’ve grown not only as a winemaker but as a person, learning invaluable lessons about dedication, perseverance and the power of belief.”
Mia considers producing the 2023 Méthode Cap Classique her most significant accomplishment at Joostenberg. From grape selection to fermentation, each step was a labour of
love, culminating in a bottle of golden bubbles to be enjoyed by wine enthusiasts.
Joostenberg’s commitment to sustainability and organic practices is a philosophy Mia wholeheartedly embraces. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for her – it’s a way of life. From eco-friendly vineyard management to minimising cellar waste, every decision is guided by a deep reverence for the environment. “At Joostenberg, we don’t just make wine – we steward the land with care and respect,” she says. “Sharing similar values and striving to make a positive impact on the planet fills me with immense pride.”
Mia’s personal goals and aspirations extend beyond the mere creation of wine. She wants to inspire others and ignite a passion for both wine and sustainability in them. “I aspire to craft wines that tell a story – not just any story, but one that speaks of the land, the climate and the spirit of the vineyard itself,” she says.
Through her work and unwavering dedication, she aims to leave a lasting impact on the wine industry and the world at large. Raising a glass to toast the future of wine, she’s filled with excitement and anticipation. With sustainability as her compass and a spirit of exploration as her muse, she’s embarked on this vineyard adventure, one sip at a time.
Rapid fire Q&A
- Favourite wine ever tasted? Brezza Cannubi Barolo 2014.
- Favourite bingeworthy TV show? New Girl
- Favourite pick-me-up song? Any Taylor Swift song.
- Least-known fact about you? I’m very awkward.
- Ideal holiday destination? Anywhere by the ocean.
To keep up with Mia's journey, follow her on social media. She's on Instagram as @max_muffin_and_sometimes_mia.