Rust en Vrede Wine Estate and Restaurant have achieved an unprecedented Top 100 Wine and Top 100 Restaurant in the world award. In 2000 Rust en Vrede was named for the first time as one of the Top 100 wines in the world. Subsequently, our wine achieved this a further three times; more than any other South African wine. During 2006 and the greater part of 2007 we renovated and restored the original cellar to its former glory. This building dates back to 1782 and carries National Monument status. In November 2007 we opened Rust en Vrede Restaurant with chef David Higgs at the helm. When David and I teamed up we both knew from the outset exactly what we wanted to create and achieve. Being named as one of the World’s Top 100 Restaurants, and accomplishing this within fifteen months of first opening our doors is an endorsement of David’s vision, and bears testament to both his and his teams’ culinary ability and meticulous attention to detail. Our research included visits to some of the world’s finest restaurants and equipped ourselves by ascertaining how things are done in Europe and North America.
To me, Rust en Vrede is very special; it being the place where I grew up and still live today. Accolades such as these are not achieved without sacrifice, determination and commitment. Over decades many people have contributed to our success: most notably my parents and family, Kevin Arnold (winemaker, 1986 - 1997), Louis Strydom (winemaker, 1998 - 2004, and today heads up production at Engelbrecht Els Wines), Coenie Snyman (winemaker, 2006 - present), and of course David Higgs. I thank my colleagues who have always been willing to go the extra mile and I thank our patrons without whom this remarkable feat and achievement would not have been possible.
Regards,
Jean Engelbrecht
