By Jamie Knee
South African wine country continues to rise as one of the world’s most exciting wine destinations. It produces expressive wines shaped by diverse soils, dramatic microclimates, ocean breezes, and centuries of cultural heritage. As a global wine writer, I am thrilled to introduce you to a producer that captures this spirit beautifully: The House of Henkel, a family-rooted, woman-led brand that honors legacy, resilience, and the artistry of South African wine.
South Africa
A Woman-Led Wine Legacy Rooted in South Africa
The House of Henkel is a boutique winery built on heritage, determination, and a deep connection to South Africa’s vineyard landscape. Founded in 2017 by Moira Henkel and her daughter Gretchen, this woman-run brand showcases artisanal wines sourced from family estates across the country. Many bottles bear Gretchen’s name, a tribute to the powerful mother–daughter story at the heart of the House of Henkel.
Their vision is simple yet profound: to shine a light on South Africa’s extraordinary terroir. This is achieved through small-batch wines crafted with intention, care, and respect for tradition.
The Beauty and Soul of South African Wine Country
South African wine country is a place where rugged mountains meet rolling vineyards. The ocean influence brings freshness to the grapes, and ancient soils add character to every bottle. This sense of place is central to the House of Henkel story.
Their journey is rooted in family, starting with the lives of Moira Henkel and her husband, Kevin. Together, they sought to honor the memory of their late parents—John and Winifred Parenzee, and Benjamin and Gertrude Henkel. They aimed to build something lasting, heartfelt, and authentic.
Moira’s own story begins in Cape Town, where she was adopted at only three days old into a loving home. Her father’s work in the transportation industry inspired her understanding of logistics, systems, and global movement. She later applied these skills to launching Fumana International Wine Imports in 2002. Although this venture focused on tourism, travel, and international partnerships, wine had always been her true calling.
In 2017, Moira and her daughter Gretchen officially launched The House of Henkel Wine Brand, weaving together South Africa’s wine heritage with their own family.
Moira & Gretchen Henkel
House of Henkel
The House of Henkel is committed to quality and takes great care to curate a selection of wines that embody the spirit of South African winemaking. From their own family vineyards to carefully selected partner farms, each wine in their collection represents a unique expression. These include the terroir, climate, and history of the region. The House of Henkel offers several collections, including the Legacy Collection, the Miecké Collection, the Premium Collection, the Signature Collection, the Gretchen Collection, the Heritage Collection, and the Private Reserve Collection.
Wine Varieties
The varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chenin Blanc, Pinotage, and Sauvignon Blanc, form a base here. In addition, they have a premium classic red Bordeaux blend. They also offer a signature methode cap classique brut and a signature sweet moela natural sweet shiraz. Here is a brief overview of each of the wines in the collection:
House of Henkel Wines:
The House of Henkel portfolio showcases the depth and diversity of South African wine. It ranges from classic varieties to signature sparkling and sweet styles.
A South African Collection to Discover
- House of Henkel Gretchen Cabernet Sauvignon–Merlot (2019)
A structured red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, offering dark fruit, gentle spice and supple tannins. - House of Henkel Gretchen Chenin Blanc (2022)
A bright, expressive white made from Chenin Blanc, South Africa’s signature grape, with fresh stone fruit and citrus notes. - House of Henkel Gretchen Delish Red (2020)
A smooth, approachable red blend designed for easy, everyday enjoyment with vibrant fruit character. - House of Henkel Gretchen Pinotage (2019)
A distinctly South African red crafted from Pinotage. It offers ripe berry flavors, warm spice and a touch of earth. - House of Henkel Gretchen Sauvignon Blanc (2022)
A crisp, refreshing white with lively acidity, citrus, and herbal nuances. It pairs beautifully with seafood and salads. - House of Henkel Premium Classic Red Bordeaux Blend
A premium red that brings together classic Bordeaux varieties grown in South African soils. It delivers depth, balance and age-worthy structure. - House of Henkel Signature Méthode Cap Classique Brut NV (2020)
A traditional-method sparkling wine with fine bubbles, notes of citrus, green apple and brioche. It is perfect for celebrations. - House of Henkel Signature Sweet Moela Natural Sweet Shiraz (375 ml)
A luscious sweet Shiraz in a half bottle. It offers rich dark berry, chocolate and spice notes for decadent endings.
Over the next several weeks, I invite you to join me on this South African wine adventure. I will be tasting and reviewing each of these House of Henkel wines in detail. Also, I will share thoughtful food pairing suggestions along the way. As a global wine writer, it is a joy to spotlight producers. Those that honor both family legacy and the unique beauty of South African wine country — and I cannot wait to bring you along, one glass at a time.
Love it!
Cheers!