As the first woman of colour to own and run a wine farm, Berene Sauls carries the weight of history. But that has only inspired her to achieve even greater things and create a legacy for her sons.

Her story is a 15-year journey from au pair to logistics manager, winemaker and farm owner. Hard work, a lucky break here and there, financial mentorship and support, and production space at Hamilton Russell Vineyards have made a significant difference to Berene’s development.

After learning the ropes of winemaking under the tutelage of Emul Ross, the winemaker at Hamilton Russell Vineyards, Berene bought a 16-hectare farm in Tesselaarsdal, her hometown. The funds came from wine sales, prize money from entrepreneurship competitions, and financing from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture and SA Wine.

Berene focuses on the production of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Darren Sauls (opposite), her eldest son, is a trainee winemaker.

Now in its sixth vintage, Tesselaarsdal Wines continues to make strides, mainly as an export brand.

Also read: Historic milestone: First black-owned wine cellar opens in South Africa

Berene’s financial strategies

Income and expenses are tracked through a monthly report, a profit and loss statement, a management account, and reconciliation of debtor and creditor balances.
Budgeting is per yearly projected cash flow.
Off-season cash flow is managed through budgeting.
There is no debt or loans. Tesselaarsdal is run on a cash basis.
Pricing is determined based on inputs and wine quality.
Her financial software tools are Sage Pastel and Field Climate.
The quality of the harvest informs the farm’s financial viability.
Every year, a hectare is added to existing vineyards to mitigate the financial risks of farming.
Long-term planning is done based on five- or ten-year cash-flow projections, and income and expense management accounts.
Her biggest challenge in securing financing for her farm is one familiar to many women: excessive red tape at certain financial institutions for female farmers and micro-businesses.
Succession planning is essential to build a legacy for the next generation, making it necessary to “farm sustainably and prepare our finances accordingly”.
Her biggest financial lesson? “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”