Kiara Scott Farmer is one of South Africa’s most respected winemakers. Born in the Cape Flats, she graduated from Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute in Viticulture and Oenology in Stellenbosch.

“My journey has been quite unconventional,” says Kiara. “I grew up in a community where wine was often viewed negatively, so choosing it as a career surprised many people around me. Through hard work, curiosity and incredible mentors, I found my place in the industry.”

After her tenure at the Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme and international harvests in the Rhône, Sancerre and California’s Russian River Valley, she has built a career that combines technical knowledge with a clear sense of purpose.

An exciting new chapter

Her appointment as winemaker at Brookdale Estate in 2019 made her South Africa’s youngest female head winemaker at the time, while her 2024 Diners Club Winemaker of the Year victory marked a historic milestone, as she became the first woman of colour to receive the honour.

Now, as head winemaker at Hazendal Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, Kiara is bringing her experience to a historic property. Her approach to winemaking is rooted in minimal intervention and a close understanding of vineyards and soils, with an emphasis on allowing the character of the site to come through in the wine.

“Becoming the cellarmaster at Hazendal is something I’m very proud of and it’s a privilege to help shape the next chapter of such a respected estate.

Continuously raising the bar

Kiara’s passion for winemaking originated from her curiosity about wine. “Along the way, I’ve been inspired by a few mentors who believed in my potential and encouraged me to keep learning, even when I doubted myself.”

Like many other women involved in agriculture, Kiara places great emphasis on humility while striving for excellence. “I’m inspired by winemakers who remain humble, curious and committed to quality and who continue to push boundaries while staying true to their vineyards.

“In particular, I have great respect for the female winemakers I believe are making some truly amazing wines, such as Samantha O’Keefe, Rianie Strydom and Jolandie Fouché.”

Regarding her approach to winemaking, Kiara’s philosophy is to intervene as little as possible while making thoughtful decisions at every stage of the process. “I believe that what happens in the vineyard plays a pivotal role in the outcome of the wine, and so that is where my focus begins. My role is to guide the fruit rather than overpower it.”

Science fuelled by passion

But what does it take to become an exceptional winemaker like Kiara? Winemaking is highly revered because it brings together science, craftsmanship and sound judgement.

An accomplished winemaker must have a deep understanding of the vineyard, chemistry, fermentation and maturation, while ultimately possessing the ability to translate the unique character of a site into a wine that is balanced, distinctive and capable of ageing gracefully.

Much of this expertise lies in knowing when to intervene and, just as importantly, when to step back and allow the wine to express itself naturally. A talented winemaker can therefore make a significant contribution to an estate’s reputation, identity and long-term commercial success.

Women are increasingly taking the lead in winemaking

Kiara says that although the industry has changed for the better regarding obstacles female winemakers face, there are still challenges their male counterparts do not necessarily face.

“Women sometimes have to work harder to prove themselves in spaces that have traditionally been male-dominated. However, more women are stepping into wine leadership roles, which are creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation.”

As a wine connoisseur, Kiara stresses that great wine does not have to be complicated. “I enjoy wines that are elegant, balanced and expressive of where they come from. It should tell a story and have freshness and balance.”

Guiding nature

At Hazendal, each wine tells a unique story, says Kiara. “I think people appreciate that our wines are approachable yet layered with character. We aim to make wines that reflect our vineyards and celebrate the Bottelary Hills of Stellenbosch.”

She believes that “what happens in the vineyard plays a pivotal role in the outcome of the wine, and so that is where my focus begins. My role is to guide the fruit rather than overpower it”.

Kiara, who heads the winemaking team on the estate, believes in leading by example. She encourages curiosity and creates an environment where people feel comfortable asking questions. “Sharing knowledge is incredibly important to me, and I enjoy mentoring young people who are exploring careers in wine, especially young women.”

She says every vintage teaches her something new and she is always learning, but singles out the remarkable accolade she received two years ago as a highlight. “I think the proudest moment for me was when I received the Diner’s Club Winemaker of the Year Award in 2024 for my Chenin Blanc.

“This award made me the youngest female winemaker of colour to receive it and that was a very special moment for me. I hope that it inspires other young women who are thinking of becoming a winemaker.”

‘Believe that you belong’

Her advice to aspiring female winemakers? “Believe that you belong, even when you’re the only woman in the room. Stay curious, keep learning and don’t be afraid to take up space. Your perspective matters and the industry needs more diverse voices.

Kiara is excited about local wines and the future of the nectar of the gods. “South African wine is producing some of the most exciting wines in the world,” she says.

“We can most certainly compete on a global level. I believe our future is bright because we have exceptional terroir, passionate people and a new generation who is willing to innovate while still respecting tradition.

Excellence requires balance

When it comes to juggling her demanding career at Hazendal and her personal life, Kiara emphasises that maintaining balance is of the utmost importance.

“Winemaking is demanding, but it’s also deeply rewarding. At Hazendal, I’m fortunate to work with an incredible team that shares the same passion for quality and minimal intervention.

“Outside of the cellar, I make time for family, friends and moments that help me to rest and recharge. Balance isn’t always easy, especially during harvest season, but I’ve learned that looking after yourself is just as important as looking after the vines.

Kiara Scott Farmer’s reputation is not simply based on awards. Her stated philosophy, namely minimal intervention, with the vineyard and soils driving the wine, has become an important part of her identity as a winemaker.

As her experience and ambitions continue to develop, there is every reason to believe that she will not only continue to make exceptional wines at Hazendal but will play an increasingly influential role in shaping the future of South African wine.