Raised on a sugar cane farm in northern Kwa-Zulu Natal, Praisy was offered a bursary by the Department of Agriculture while in matric. Among the various paths available, she chose winemaking simply because it “sounded interesting,” despite never having tasted wine before. Now, with 16 years in the wine industry, Praisy is a visionary leader, with a passion for leaving a legacy and creating opportunities for female winemakers.
After 16 years in the wine industry, how has your perspective on winemaking evolved? I continue to improve with each harvest season, honing my skills as a winemaker and growing in various aspects of my life. My love and passion for winemaking have only deepened as I’ve navigated the many variables that keep me engaged and adaptable.
What are some of the most significant lessons you’ve learned as a female winemaker? Staying resilient learning to overcome obstacles and persistence in pursuing my intended goals. I have also learnt to balance passion with practicality, especially in the aspect of business acumen and financial management for sustainability.
How have you seen the wine industry change in the past decade, particularly in terms of opportunities for women? Compared to when I first entered the wine industry years ago back in 2005, it has become much more understanding and accommodating of the role women play. There is now a greater recognition of the need for diversity to foster growth and shape an industry that can embrace everyone who wants to be a part of it.
If you could share a bottle of your wine with any public figure, who would it be and why? It would be with my late mother. She supported me greatly towards the end of my studies, despite not fully understanding my educational journey. The fact that she passed away before witnessing my achievements as a businesswoman and winemaker sometimes breaks my heart. If I had the chance to share a glass of wine with someone important, it would unquestionably be her.
Is there an unusual food pairing you’ve tried with your wine, and did it work? I accidentally had chicken curry with our HER Chenin because I didn’t have another choice of wine at the time, and it was surprising how the spice in the curry elevated the fruit flavours on the palate when paired with HER Chenin Blanc.
If HER wines had personalities, how would you describe them? HER Pinotage exudes a strong, powerful character with intense flavours of dark fruit, smoke, and earthy undertones. It’s a wine that makes a statement and holds its own with hearty dishes. HER Chenin Blanc is zesty with bright acidity, showcasing lively flavours of green apple, pear, and a hint of citrus. It’s an invigorating choice perfect for a refreshing sip on a warm day. HER Sauvignon Blanc is bright with invigorating flavours, it is characterised by its distinctive flavours with lively and expressive flavours and crispy palate. HER Shiraz offers a juicy, fruit-forward profile. It’s an approachable and satisfying wine perfect for casual drinking. This wine is luxurious and well-rounded.
What’s the most common myth or misconception about winemaking that always makes you chuckle? Screwcap wines are of inferior quality. This perception is rapidly changing as more winemakers are using screw caps for their ease of use, ability to maintain freshness, and reduction of wine faults caused by cork taint.
How do you continue to find inspiration in the industry? Witnessing people’s reactions to the wine you’ve crafted and seeing them embrace your vision is an incredible experience.
HER Wine Collection in collaboration with Sisterhood Connect brings you ‘A Moment with Tops’, a live event at Schoon Organic Wine Farm and Cellar in Paarl on Saturday, 31 August 2024. The event will focus on empowering women in business and those aspiring to chart their own path. Keynote speakers include businesswoman Carol Bouwer, former Miss South Africa Dr Tamaryn Green-Nxumalo and co-founder of HER Wine Collection Praisy Dlamini, amongst others. These inspiring women will share their journeys and offer valuable insights into overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Tickets are available here: Tops in the Winelands’ Powered by Her Wine Collection
