MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR DANIE MALAN

Riebeek Kasteel, South Africa, 17 September 2024: A memorial service for Daniël Francois Malan, pioneering cellarmaster of Allesverloren, is to be held at the family farm in the Riebeek Valley on Saturday, September 21. 

Daniël, or Danie as he was known to all who knew and loved him, passed away suddenly last week Wednesday. He was attending a meeting in Cape Town when he suffered a heart attack. His wife, Juanita, was at his side when the incident happened. 

The wine industry has mourned his loss as a visionary and beloved family man who had recently celebrated his 60th birthday. Known for his pioneering contributions, Danie left an indelible mark on the landscape of Swartland and indeed, South African, wine production. Since joining his father at the farm in 1987, his passion for crafting unique vintages set a new standard of excellence in the industry. His dedication to sustainability and innovation not only earned him numerous accolades but also made Allesverloren wines a staple in homes and restaurants worldwide.

The Malan family has been at Allesverloren for just over 150 years. Amongst many hallmarks, it is the Swartland’s oldest wine estate and pioneered the use of Portuguese wine grape varieties in South Africa. The first port wine was made here in 1806.

Under Danie – the fifth generation Malan at Allesverloren - the reputation of the farm scaled new heights. 

His career highlights included being named Diners Club Winemaker of the Year  in 1998. In 2010 Danie made history as the first South African cellarmaster to receive the prestigious Golden Glass award at Sweden's long-running annual International Producer of the Year competition.

More recently, a transition of winemakers at the farm had seen Danie return to the cellar – an event that filled him with great excitement and enthusiasm.

Beyond the vineyard, he was a devoted husband and father, whose family and children – Fanie, Danielle and Jua-Mari – were central to his life. He was also a passionate fisherman and was known for his larger-than-life personality.

Tributes and offers of support have poured in over the past week and the family thanks everyone for the love and support that has enveloped them.

The memorial service at Allesverloren will take place at 11:00. The farm’s regular activities will be closed for the day.

ENDS