Bringing local sommeliers and wine enthusiasts closer to prestigious South African estates, Scott & Co Ltd, one of the leading importers and distributors of wines and spirits in Mauritius, aimed to stand out by inviting two renowned South African winemakers for “discovery” events. Dupré Nell, Export Manager for the Anthonij Rupert estate, and Jeanette Bruwer, owner and winemaker of Springfield Estate, led master classes during their stay in Mauritius, covering topics such as sustainable viticulture and the production and transformation stages. These events were held on September 11 at Le Méridien Hotel and on October 1 at Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Resort, in an immersive atmosphere.
During the first master class, Dupré Nell from Anthonij Rupert guided participants through an in-depth exploration of the nuances and unique terroirs of South African wines. “The master class focused on the wines we export to Mauritius, in partnership with Scott & Co Ltd. It was an opportunity to educate Mauritians, especially sommeliers, on the specifics of our terroirs and wines, highlighting what makes our products stand out internationally. Anthonij Rupert Wyne has been dedicated to the art of winemaking since the 1600s. Our wines truly reflect the essence of African wine: elegant and classic, yet marked by French influence. They fit perfectly within the Mauritian market,” emphasized Dupré Nell.
Jeanette Bruwer, who led the second master class, expressed her satisfaction with Scott’s initiative, describing it as “an exceptional, professional company, well-established in the market and with real expertise in wine.” She also noted, “What sets Springfield apart is its family heritage, passed down through generations, with the motto ‘Made on Honour,’ inscribed on every bottle. That’s truly how we live, how we make our wines, and how we share them. Our estate champions an artisanal approach: natural yeasts, extended aging in barrels, and working on specific plots that give each wine a unique identity,” she added.
During these events, Scott & Co Ltd sought to democratize South African wines by offering a selection of high-quality products. The group then invited local sommeliers, as well as some clients and key partners, to continue the experience at its “La Maison Scott” stores in Grand Baie and Ruisseau Créole, where guests were able to taste wines from the two estates, creating a privileged moment of exchange. Wine-pairing sessions complemented this initiative, highlighting the unique qualities of each wine when paired with specific dishes. The master classes and tastings also brought attention to important topics such as sustainable viticulture.
Jeff Thomé, Wine Brand Manager at Scott & Co Ltd, emphasized the importance of continuous training in sommelier skills in Mauritius. “Master classes are extremely important in Mauritius because we are a small island far from the major oenology and sommelier schools. To better understand this world, it is essential to invite international experts to address the technical aspects during these sessions, such as vineyards, soils, and all the factors that influence the taste and texture of wine. The experience is completely different when the winemaker himself is there to explain each step of the production process. Scott is very proud and honored to collaborate with prestigious South African estates such as Anthonij Rupert Wyne and Springfield Estate, whose products are available in La Maison Scott cellars, as well as on our website www.lamaisonscott.mu,” he concluded.
About Scott & Co Ltd
Scott & Co Ltd is one of the leading importers and distributors of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), pharmaceuticals, and health products in Mauritius. Founded in 1830, it is the second-oldest trading company in Mauritius.
About Anthonij Rupert Wyne
Nestled in the prestigious Franschhoek Valley in South Africa, Anthonij Rupert Wyne has established itself as a key reference in winemaking. Known for its exceptional wines, it offers a rich and complex aromatic palette, ranging from Bordeaux-inspired red blends to elegant sparkling wines like L’Ormarins Méthode Cap Classique. What sets Anthonij Rupert Wyne apart is its deep belief that terroir guarantees quality. Each vineyard plot, with its unique soil and specific microclimate, expresses its own identity, which is reflected in the finished wine. Committed to preserving the environment and reducing its ecological footprint, Anthonij Rupert Wyne launched the Protea range, implementing sustainable practices at every stage of production, from vineyard to bottle. The labels, designed by South African artist Mark Eisen, are easily recyclable and do not damage the bottle, allowing wine lovers to reuse them creatively after enjoying their Protea wine.
About Springfield Estate
Springfield Estate is a family-owned winery located in the heart of the Robertson Valley, surrounded by mountains in the Western Cape, South Africa. The farm has been owned by the same family since 1898. Today, thanks to a combination of traditional techniques, modern technology, and determination, the Bruwer family produces wines that live up to their motto: “Made on Honour.” Springfield’s philosophy is to produce wine naturally. The winemaking process is simple, allowing the terroir, passed down from their ancestors, to be authentically expressed. Founded in 1902, Springfield’s winery follows a minimalist winemaking approach. No pumping, crushing, or pressing is used for the red wines. The grapes are transported by gravity and fermented whole to prevent any deterioration. Fermentation is mainly done with natural wild yeasts, an unpredictable process that takes several months. The wine is then bottled without filtration or fining, aged for two years in barrels and four years in bottles, until it is ready for sale.
