After three years as assistant winemaker, Léhandri now steps into the role of winemaker, recognising the significant contribution she has already made to Glenelly Estate and the confidence we have in her to lead our wines into the future.
She is an incredibly talented winemaker with a natural intuition that simply cannot be taught.
This promotion is well-deserved and enables her to continue making wines of power, elegance and balance that speak of Glenelly's incredible terroir.
A journey in wine from Stellenbosch to Bordeaux and back again
What began as simply an interest in wine and winemaking quickly grew into a genuine passion, taking her from a Viticulture and Oenology degree at Elsenburg to cellars across South Africa and Europe, including Tokara, Cederberg, De Toren, Vassaltis in Santorini, and Château La Gaffelière in Saint-Émilion.
She has long been drawn to the classic, expressive character of Bordeaux-style wines, making her a brilliant fit for Glenelly Estate. She joined the team in July 2023 as Assistant Winemaker, working closely alongside Dirk van Zyl to shape each vintage since.
Her philosophy:
"Let the site and vineyard speak for themselves, through thoughtful, minimal intervention where every decision has a purpose. Typicity and sense of place matter most."
Getting to know Léhandri
A place that's stuck with you, from your travels or otherwise?
I've been fortunate to travel a lot, but I love Europe, especially France, Greece and Italy. A student trip to France in my final year at Elsenburg sparked a curiosity that eventually led me back to Bordeaux for a harvest in Saint-Émilion. Greece holds a special place in my heart too, mostly because of the friendships I made during harvest in Santorini. Different, but good different.
What do you love doing outside the cellar?
I love being outdoors, hiking, running, or attempting to surf (I'm not good, but it's good for the soul). I'm a social person too, so nothing beats time with friends and family.
Go-to comfort meal after a long day?
Hard to choose, I love all food. A good steak is always a win, but so is a good curry.
Anyone who's shaped your journey into winemaking?
I've learned from many talented winemakers, but I've grown the most over the past three years alongside Dirk. Working with experienced people who encourage you to stay curious, trust your instincts and never stop learning has made all the difference.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I have a terrible sense of direction, first time admitting this publicly. Put me in a new city and there's a good chance I'll take the scenic route.