I grew up on the farm and have seen the business grown from a small family set-up to become the biggest family-owned winery in South Africa.  To know that I, my mother and my grandparents have all played a part in the success is heartwarming.

Our customers - to see how the people love the brand, how they appreciate us going the extra mile, how we can make someone's day is great.  And to know that they will not only be back, but that they will tell other people of us makes it so worth while

When I joined Van Loveren some years back, it was "who is the Four Cousins and what are they like".  These days it is "who is Christina van Loveren".  An ascendant of Ouma Jean Retief, Christina came to the Cape of Good Hope in 1699.  Her trousseaux kist was passed to Ouma Jean and when she and Oupa Hennie were contemplating renaming their new farm Goudmyn F (which Ouma Jean believed stood for fools and failures), it was Christina who inspired Ouma Jean and the farm became known as "Van Loveren"

For someone willing to work hard and proof themselves there are many opportunities in the wine industry.  And it certainly is very nice to work in the beautiful surroundings of a farm, especially if it is for the famous four cousins!  But like any other job it can be challenging at times as well as hard work.

Favourite Music:  Michael Bolton

Favourite Movie: Titanic - I cried like a baby!

Favourite Food:  My Mom's Curry

Favourite Pastime:  Watching Rugby with friends

Favourite Quote: It always seems impossible until it is done

Seven years ago when I joined Van Loveren I knew nothing about wine - everything tasted the same. I had to learn  about wine and how to taste it, what to look for - and today I can just smell a wine and know which wine it is!  My favourite two wines are the Four Cousins Pink Sparkling wine - which is deliciously sweet and our new Van Loveren African Java Pinotage - a very smooth red wine with loads of coffee and mocha flavours.