The people behind Waterford Estate

A legacy of passion and expertise

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Waterford Estate is more than just a winery; it is a collective of passionate individuals whose dedication to their craft ensures that every bottle tells a unique story. From the vineyard to the tasting room, the Waterford team brings expertise, creativity, and a shared love for South African wine. 

Let’s meet the people who make Waterford Estate the revered brand it is today.

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Mark le Roux – Cellarmaster & COO

Since joining Waterford Estate in 2009, Mark le Roux has risen to South Africa’s most respected winemakers. Taking the reins as Cellarmaster in 2013, Mark’s vision has shaped the estate's identity. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to producing wines that express the terroir of Stellenbosch have earned the estate global acclaim. His leadership extends beyond winemaking, as he now serves as the COO, driving the winery’s strategic direction.

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Jamie Papenfus – Winemaker

Jamie Papenfus joined the team in 2017, bringing a fresh perspective and a deep love for Chardonnay. His innovative approach complements Mark's traditional methods, and together they have crafted wines that are both classic and adventurous. Jamie’s passion for cool-climate varietals, particularly Chardonnay, is reflected in the estate’s celebrated offerings, adding depth to Waterford's already diverse portfolio.

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David van Schalkwyk – Viticulturist

Originally a consultant, David van Schalkwyk’s expertise in viticulture quickly became indispensable. A staunch advocate of Grenache, he has contributed significantly to Waterford’s vineyard practices, ensuring that sustainability remains at the core of the estate’s farming methods. David dreams of one day adding a Pinotage to the Waterford collection and is always challenging the team to explore new varietals.

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Simon Terblanche – Assistant Viticulturist

Though young, Simon Terblanche has made a remarkable impression as the Assistant Viticulturist. His energy and eagerness to learn make him an invaluable asset to the vineyard team. Simon is already demonstrating knowledge far beyond his years, and his future in viticulture at Waterford looks bright.

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Roland Fransman & Thabo Titus – Cellar Hands

In the heart of the winery, Roland Fransman and Thabo Titus are the ones who ensure that the winemaking process runs smoothly. With years of experience working side by side with Mark and Jamie, they have become the quiet heroes of Waterford’s cellar. Their hands-on knowledge of each step in the winemaking process is crucial to maintaining the quality and consistency of every vintage.

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Steph Botha – Tasting Room Manager

As the first point of contact for many visitors, Steph Botha oversees the estate’s renowned tasting room. Her deep understanding of Waterford's wines and her warm, welcoming nature create unforgettable experiences for guests. Under her management, the tasting room is more than a space to try wines—it’s an immersion into the heart of the estate.

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Sulize de Kock – Events Manager

From intimate dinners to grand celebrations, Sulize de Kock is the mastermind behind Waterford's many successful events. Her attention to detail and passion for curating memorable experiences have elevated the estate’s hospitality offerings. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, or a special tasting, Sulize ensures that every moment is extraordinary.

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Andre Lourens – Head of Sales

Andre Lourens brings his expertise in sales to Waterford Estate, driving both local and international sales strategies. His efforts help position Waterford's wines in prestigious markets around the world. Andre’s focus is not just on numbers but on building lasting relationships with distributors, retailers, and customers, ensuring that the estate’s reputation continues to grow.

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Anrike van der Walt – Marketing Manager

With a background in luxury brands, Anrike van der Walt oversees the marketing strategies that keep Waterford top of mind for wine lovers across the globe. Her vision aligns with the estate’s ethos of responsible luxury, and her innovative campaigns have helped solidify Waterford’s position as a leading South African winery.

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Jeremy Maarschalk - Client Relations Manager

Jeremy manages online and offline communication, ensuring seamless client interactions. He builds relationships, addresses inquiries, and enhances guest experiences through online platforms and direct engagement.

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Brandon Engelbrecht & Keyanna Trower – Tasting Room Floor Managers

Brandon Engelbrecht and Keyanna Trower manage the day-to-day operations on the tasting room floor, ensuring that every visitor leaves with a deep appreciation for Waterford’s wines. Their combined experience and passion for wine make them essential to delivering a seamless and enjoyable tasting experience.

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At Waterford Estate, it’s not just about the wine - it’s about the people who dedicate their lives to making it exceptional. This talented team, led by visionaries like Mark le Roux and supported by skilled winemakers, viticulturists, and hospitality experts, ensures that Waterford remains a beacon of quality, innovation, and passion in the South African wine industry. Each member brings their unique expertise and personality to the table, creating a harmonious environment where both wine and people flourish.