Isabel Teubes is responsible for overseeing all of Nederburg's vineyards in Paarl, Simondium, and Groenekloof, as well as their suppliers’ vineyards across the Western Cape. Being born and raised on a wine farm in Vredendal, she has actively been involved in farm activities relating to winemaking and viticulture since the age of 10. Her innate passion and understanding of wine paired with international experience and hard work are what sets her up for success at Nederburg.
We got to know Natasha and chatted about her journey at Nederburg. Read the interview below:
What inspired you to become a viticulturist?
While other ten-year-old girls were playing hopscotch, I was out in the vineyards with my father, Johan. I grew up surrounded by vines and have been actively involved in farm activities related to winemaking and viticulture since the age of 10. I fell in love with the idea that a vine is both science and art, and that your work in the vineyard shapes the wine long before it reaches the cellar. Growing up on a farm meant being outdoors and working with nature every day – and that’s where my love for vineyards and wine began. Those early experiences taught me to respect what nature gives us, and that exceptional wines always start in the vineyard.
What are your main responsibilities at Nederburg, and how long have you been working there?
I joined Nederburg as viticulturist in December 2019, and I’m responsible for overseeing all of Nederburg's vineyards as well as those of our wide network of suppliers across many of the Cape’s top growing areas – from Durbanville to Darling, and from Elgin to Ceres.
Viticulture and winemaking are two sides of the same coin – one can’t succeed without the other. My role is to ensure the grapes reach the cellar in optimal condition, aligned with the style and quality the winemaking team is aiming for. This is currently my sixth harvest at Nederburg, and maintaining quality consistency across such diverse terroirs remains one of the most challenging – and rewarding – parts of my role. I’m also involved in several exciting, innovative vineyard projects.
What do you enjoy most about being a viticulturist?
No two vintages are ever the same – and that’s one of the most humbling and exciting parts of the job. There’s something magical about seeing a block of vines you’ve nurtured all year finally produce a beautiful harvest. Knowing that those grapes will go on to become a wine that people share over special moments – that’s incredibly fulfilling.
As a viticulturist, what are the biggest challenges you face?
Each region brings its own unique climate, soil type, and vine behaviour. Rather than trying to make them all conform, my approach is to understand and celebrate those differences while still aligning them with the end goal – which always depends on the wine style we’re aiming for. At the end of the day, we work with nature, and it’s we as people who must adapt.
With the 2026 harvest on the horizon, what can consumers look forward to from this upcoming season?
The lead-up to 2026 looks promising, but so much can still change. Each harvest is unique, and we adapt as we go. I’ve always loved a challenge, and I don’t see obstacles – I see opportunities. We don’t fight the vintage; we work with it to bring out the best expression of that year’s unique character.
As a WWF Conservation Champion, what are some of the sustainable practices that are implemented in the Nederburg vineyards?
Nederburg has been a WWF Conservation Champion since 2020, recognised back then for its assiduous water stewardship. From water-saving irrigation techniques and cellar processes to land rehabilitation, it has made water management a central feature of its sustainability practices.
In what might well be a first for the South African wine industry, Nederburg has created its own closed-loop vineyard, cellar and brand home irrigation water supply, reducing its reliance on the municipal water grid. The winery's investment in new automated biological wastewater treatment technology is helping to boost Nederburg's self-sufficiency and climate resilience.
What’s your advice for young women interested in pursuing a career as a viticulturist?
Don’t be intimidated by the physical demands or the science. If you’re passionate, willing to learn, and ready to get your hands dirty, there’s absolutely a place for you in this industry. Build a strong network, find mentors, and trust your instincts – the vineyard doesn’t lie.
If you weren’t a viticulturist, what would you be doing and why?
I’ve always loved sports and being outdoors. If I could choose another path, I would have wanted to become a professional golfer.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I always make time for family and friends, because that’s so precious in today’s fast-paced world. For me, nothing beats a cold glass of Nederburg wine on the West Coast with fresh crayfish and good company.
