After a lifetime devoted to creating beautiful expressions of his passions, the Franschhoek wine legend passed away at the age of 78, surrounded by his family.
"He laid the foundations of the legacy at Haute Cabrière and Pierre Jourdan which we are honoured to carry forward," Haute Cabrière shared on their social media. "His passion, innovations, creativity, love of beauty, and generosity shaped who we are. We honour his memory with gratitude and will continue to uphold the traditions and values he instilled."
Achim's mother, Theodora, inspired his career in wine. She met André Simon, the great wine personality from Champagne, in the 1960s while working at Silwood School of Cookery, and was inspired by his passion for wine. Achim was completing his military service during this time and on his return home at the age of 20, Theordora suggested to Achim that he work in a wine cellar and learn about winemaking. Achim fell in love with the idea and a seed was planted that would continue to flourish with every passing year.
Having studied in Europe and spent harvest time in France and Germany, Achim returned to South Africa. At the age of 32, he was appointed cellarmaster at Boschendal. Working within and exploring the relatively secluded valleys in the Stellenbosch-Paarl-Franschhoek region and, ultimately, Achim’s path lead him to Franschhoek where his legacy took root and blossomed. He founded Haute Cabrière in the Franschhoek Valley in 1982
Achim’s eldest child, Takuan, was immersed in the family’s passion for wine and destined to follow in his father’s footsteps. He joined the Haute Cabrière cellar after his studies and various challenging harvest experiences in Europe. From a toddler in the cellar to taking over the reins, Takuan’s journey to cellarmaster is something of which his father, Achim, was truly proud.
Achim has always been determined to create a quality South African Cap Classique that could proudly stand next to the Champagne houses of France. This necessitated the planting of the classic grape varietals of Champagne – Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Haute Cabrière’s first Cap Classique was a traditional Champagne-style blend of these classic varieties and the first of its kind in South Africa: the Pierre Jourdan Brut, released in 1986. In true French tradition, this Cap Classique was named after the land’s first owner and farmer, French Huguenot Pierre Jourdan.
Upon his retirement, Achim continued to call the Franschhoek Valley home. With the Haute Cabrière cellar in safe hands with the next generation, he immersed himself in his poetry, art and Karate. He also spent time with his wife, Hildegard, his children, and his grandchildren.
Our thoughts are with the Von Arnim family.
Messages of condolences to Achim von Arnim's loved ones
"I remember when I started my career in wine, a 20-year-old at Delheim, Achim was a 'larger-than-life' personality in the wine industry... always a presence when he walked in, you knew he arrived. Thank you for your tremendous contribution, Achim, you'll be remembered. RIP." - Amanda de Klerk
"My very deepest condolences to the family. Achim lived life to the fullest extent, pushed the limits in every sense. Very few people could narrate a story so brilliantly. I was very fortunate to have spent quite a bit of time with Achim, and that was a real privilege. Hildegard, you were his Joy, his rock, his anchor, and his all. My heart is in tears. I'm sending you all my love, biggest hugs, and prayers." - Mark Norrish
"Farewell Achim, you were a true trailblazer, one-of-a-kind legend! I had the privilege of being your PA for most of my 24 years at Haute Cabrière. Thank you for all the lovely memories. Shew, those were the days! You will be missed. 'God will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.' - Revelation 21:4" - Jen-Jen Ramsay
"My condolences to the Von Arnim family. My memory of him goes back to Boschendal, where he was an inspiration to all with whom he shared time. He influenced thousands of people personally, who were (and are) navigating the wine world, inspiring us about bubbly, first of all, and also life in general: how to get to know Cap Classique and Champagne, and how to pair wine with food. His passion was infectious. The Haute Cabriere brand is strong and established. Go well Achim." - Caroline Rillema
"So many special memories of time spent with Achim while being the Gauteng brand ambassador for Haute Cabrière all those years back. Always larger than life and full of passion for his business and wines that he was so proud of. You certainly leave a great legacy behind! Condolences to the Von Arnim family." - Sandy Nicol
"He was an immense presence. A man among men. Rest in peace." - Chef Pete Goffe-Wood
"My sincerest condolences to his family and friends on Achim’s passing. I'll never forget him tutoring my wife and late sister-in-law the art of sabrage. RIP, Achim." - Howard Winn
Should anyone wish to share their memories of Achim, please send them to editor@wine.co.za and we will add to this tribute.