DGB hosted an intimate function to launch Avontuur Estate's brand new range of wines on Tuesday, 13 May 2025 on the historic wine estate outside Somerset West. DGB purchased the Avontuur wine brand in 2024, a decision that was very carefully considered. The acclaimed Helderberg slopes provide an incredible tapestry and terroir, and the entire team at DGB have invested heavily in understanding the rich aspects, soil, weather patterns, sun, and clones. Viticulturist Heinie Nel spoke about how decisions to change the line of vine by 5% can make an enormous impact on the amount of exposure to sun a vine gets, so it really is a science to ensure the best juice is made in the vineyard. Premiumisation of South African wines is a major focus of DGB, and the Avontuur purchase plays into that. The first wines which they are releasing are made from grapes which are grown on neighbouring farms, so will be very close to the eventual wines made. The Avontuur Collection was launched, consisting of 3 intense wines: Avontuur Disa Gorge Chardonnay 2024, Avontuur Stone Field Syrah 2023, and, of course, a rich and delicious Cab, Avontuur West Peak Cabernet Sauvignon 2021. The pièce de résistance is their top-end wine also being launched was The Taberer, honouring the family who have owned Avontuur Estate for many decades. The Taberer is a big wine; a delicious Bordeaux blend which has only 100 cases made. It's being sold at R1 200 a bottle, so raising the bar a fair bit. Winemaker Dominique Modena is very passionate about winemaking, being quite clear that great wines come from great grapes, but as Duimpie Bayly used to say (and which Emile Joubert quoted at the launch): "Everyone says wine is made in the vineyard, but I have never seen a horse win at the Durban July without a jockey!" Hats off to the entire team at DGB and Avontuur for their foresight and confidence. Click HERE to read the press release.