Born from friendship, family and a desire for honest wines, M.A.N Family Wines has grown from a modest project into one of South Africa’s most recognisable producers, balancing accessibility with quality and a genuine connection to the land.
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– by Hesikios Kevin –
In 2001, three friends saw an opportunity. Tyrrel and Philip Myburgh were already part of their family’s Joostenberg Wines, while José Conde was immersed in his label, Stark-Condé Wines. They wanted something different, not bottles reserved for rarefied collections, but wines they could share with colleagues and friends. The inspiration for the venture came from home. Borrowing the initials of their wives, Marie, Anette, and Nicky, they created M.A.N Family Wines, launching the project in a tractor shed where they produced 600 cases of Pinotage in its first year.
From the very beginning, the focus was firmly on vineyards rather than cellars. Tyrrel and José spent weekends visiting growers, forging relationships that were vital to the winery’s development. Trust led to collaboration, and over time, those farmers became shareholders, a partnership that continues to shape the winery today. Some of South Africa’s oldest Chenin Blanc vines now supply M.A.N Family Wines, adding depth and character to the bottles that leave their cellars.
Among its offerings is the Free-run Steen Chenin Blanc, a crisp and expressive white with aromas of quince, pear and pineapple. On the palate, peach and apple follow, balanced by a bright line of acidity and a subtle mineral edge. The Warrelwind Sauvignon Blanc delivers tropical fruit with a hint of herbaceousness, lifted by clean acidity and a finish that feels light yet persistent.
Chardonnay finds elegance in Padstal, which is pale straw in colour and carefully balanced between fruit and oak. Aromas of marmalade, pineapple and butterscotch rise on the nose, while citrus and peach bring freshness to the palate. Deeper reds are represented by the Ou Kalant Cabernet Sauvignon, where dark cherries and cassis lead into red-currant fruit, softened by silky tannins and a smooth finish that leans toward old-world finesse.
Merlot shows its classic side in Jan Fiskaal, with aromas of plum, cherry and spice supported by gentle tannins. Dark chocolate and blueberries linger into an earthy close. Meanwhile, South Africa’s signature grape is expressed in the Bosstok Pinotage, which features mocha, chocolate, and roasted coffee notes layered with berry fruit and vanilla spice, with the bush-vine origins contributing intensity. Rounding out the range is Skaapveld Shiraz, marked by plum and liquorice on the nose, blackcurrant on the palate and subtle spice wrapped in polished tannins.
From humble beginnings in a shed to strong partnerships with seasoned farmers, M.A.N Family Wines has remained true to its original promise: producing approachable, expressive wines rooted in community. Each bottle carries the imprint of collaboration, proving that quality can be shared daily.
Exquisite Taste Volume 49
M.A.N Family Wines
W: manwines.com
IG: @manfamilywines
