2025 has sped past without delay and while challenging on multiple fronts, key projects of new vineyard establishment and repurposing of estate facilities have progressed positively. We were also blessed with an exceptional harvest that will bring forth some of the best wines ever produced at Dornier.
A new era: Toit Wessels, cellarmaster at Dornier
It is of great excitement and pride that we introduce our new cellarmaster, Toit Wessels, to you.
Toit’s reputation in the wine industry precedes him with the outstanding contributions he has made and successes he has achieved in both viticulture and winemaking. Having qualified in viticulture in 1999 and winemaking in 2006, success seemed to follow Toit in all he undertook.
His exemplary achievements and leadership in both winemaking and viticulture usher in a new era for Dornier where intrinsic values of integrity and innovation will soar to new heights.
Welcome, Toit!
Vines and wines: Vineyard update and Veritas Awards
The arduous task of reestablishing vines at Dornier continues. 16 000 new vines were planted in 2025, which included grape varieties of Semillon, Malbec, and Merlot. Additional new vine establishment is planned for 2026. In the interim a dedicated team is focusing on the healthy development of these new vines and other new blocks planted in recent years.
2026 will see the maiden harvest of new, clone-specific vines planted 4 years ago on the property neighbouring Dornier. These Cabernet Sauvignon vines area predominantly north facing and will bring additional depth and complexity to the broad range of red wines produced at Dornier.
So far, the season ahead looks promising. The vines are very healthy and are growing at a rapid speed. Our teams have pushed hard to ensure that all is in place before we enter the crucial time of flowering.
Regardless of price, the wines of Dornier offer extraordinary value across the board as recently attested to at this year’s Veritas Awards.
We are thrilled to announce the following achievements secured:
- Dornier Cocoa Hill Ruby Red 2022 – Gold
- Dornier Malbec 2023 – Gold
- Dornier Donatus Red 2021 – Double Gold
The festive season ahead at the Wine Lounge at Dornier
During this festive season, The Wine Lounge at Dornier will be open daily from 09h00 to 17h30, serving delicious cheese and charcuterie platters, flammkuchen, and bagels alongside our award-winning wines.
Please note that we will be closed on 24–25 December 2025 and 1 January 2026.
To make a reservation, call us at 021 880 0557 or email us at winelounge@dornier.co.za.
From everyone at Dornier we would like to wish you and family a happy and safe festive season. We look forward to seeing you at Dornier!