Bushbuckridge local ventures into winemaking

Thulani Khoza has set foot in the winemaking industry with his locally produced brand, called Bushbuckridge Wine.

Being a wine lover has contributed to this venture, but his passion to uplift his community enhanced the vision of having a wine brand in a developing township.

“The Bushbuckridge area has vast tourism attractions, so why not sip on some locally made beverage while touring through the town and surrounding tourist attractions? This is a stepping stone to elevate Bushbuckridge collectively with luxury goods,” Khoza said.

It took quite some time to make his product a success, but he said he persevered to achieve his dreams. “I have to say, winemaking is not easy. There were a lot of unsuccessful processes that led to the final product, which makes me happy. This is definitely a taste of international standards,” Khoza said.

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He said he does not want to stop at just offering luxury goods, but wants to uplift the community through employment. He currently produces his wine in a factory in Limpopo, but aims to change that in time.

“I plan to sell 500 000 bottles of the different kinds of wine I have. That capital will allow me to establish a winery in Bushbuckridge that will employ locals. I am not far from the target, because people enjoy the wine. I am already engaging on employing at least five people by March,” he said.

Khoza has managed to produce various kinds such as house red and white wine, sweet rosé and merlot. Adding to his wine offerings, he is looking into producing spirits such as gin.

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He said he is engaging with local supermarkets to have his wine available for purchase. “The aim is to have people buy the wine while they do their groceries. It will be easier than having to wait for an order to be delivered,” he said.

Single or bulk purchases can be made via 081 427 3141.