Cape Town, July 2025 – Steenberg Vineyards, South Africa’s oldest registered farm located in the Constantia Wine Region, has appointed Thabile Cele as Assistant Winemaker. This appointment marks a meaningful step in both Thabile’s personal journey and Steenberg’s continued commitment to mentorship, transformation, and female leadership in the South African wine industry.

From Internship to Assistant Winemaker

Thabile’s journey with Steenberg began in 2023 when she joined the estate as a harvest intern. Attracted by the opportunity to work with high-quality sparkling wine, cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc, and lesser-known varietals like Nebbiolo, she quickly found more than hands-on experience.

“Being appointed Assistant Winemaker at Steenberg feels like coming home,” Cele shares. “There’s a rare kind of comfort in finding a workplace that feels like family. I’m excited to keep growing here, both personally and professionally, and to contribute to the wines we create and the team culture that drew me in from day one.”

Her appointment is the result of Steenberg’s long-term vision and dedication to purposeful talent development

Mentorship with Intention

For Elunda Basson, Steenberg’s Cellarmaster, welcoming Thabile into the permanent team was a decision rooted in shared values and a vision for the future.

“We have been very patient with keeping this position vacant until we were truly ready to invest our time and energy into mentoring a junior team member,” says Basson. “Thabile is the perfect match. Her humility, work ethic, thirst for knowledge, and deep passion for our terroir make her the right fit. She will add tremendous value to our business.”

Mentoring Thabile is both a professional and personal milestone for Basson, who brings over two decades of experience to her role.

“My career is at the stage where I’m ready to share what I’ve learnt,” says Basson. “I want to help Thabile find her voice, believe in her power, and step confidently into her space in the industry. It’s also about giving her access and bringing her into industry conversations and spaces where she can learn, lead, and leave her mark.”

Thabile values the mentorship she has received, describing it as a defining part of her development.

“Elunda has helped shape not just my technical skills, but also my mindset. She reminds me that winemaking is a lifelong learning journey. Her support has made all the difference.”

Continuing a Legacy of Bold Women

Steenberg has long been shaped by strong female voices. From its origins with founder Catharina Ras to its current leadership, the estate honours the strength, courage, and vision of women in wine.

“There’s a special energy here that speaks to people,” Basson reflects. “It’s part of who we are and Thabile has that same fire. Women winemakers have grit. And Steenberg has grit.”

This appointment also underscores Steenberg’s dedication to creating a fair and inclusive industry for the next generation.

“We take our responsibility seriously,” says Basson. “Every year, we welcome a diverse group of harvest interns and continue to support them long after they leave. We want to build an inclusive and fair industry and one where young talent, especially young women, have access to opportunity.”

Looking Ahead

Thabile embraces the opportunity to inspire others and contribute to the future of South African winemaking.“The wine industry remains male-dominated, and I hope my journey encourages other young women to see themselves in this space. I’m excited about the innovation happening at Steenberg; the new varietals, the creative projects, and the chance to honour tradition while pushing boundaries.”

Basson adds, “There are some phenomenal young talents in our industry that are desperately looking for an opportunity to show what they are capable of. We need to nurture and develop the next generation of wine stars to ensure our wine industry stays relevant and strong!”

About Steenberg Estate

Founded in 1682 and located just 30 minutes from Cape Town, Steenberg Estate is South Africa’s first registered farm. The estate is widely regarded for its cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc, elegant red blends, and Cap Classique wines. Under the guidance of Cellarmaster Elunda Basson, who holds the positions of Vice Chair of the Cap Classique Producers Association and Chairperson of The Sauvignon Blanc Association of South Africa, Steenberg continues to deliver age-worthy wines of depth and refinement.

In addition to its award-winning wines, the estate offers a complete luxury experience including a five-star hotel, spa, fine dining, and a world-class tasting room.