A Hidden Gem in Stellenbosch Just a short 10-minute drive from the centre of Stellenbosch, Stark-Condé is tucked away along a winding country road in the scenic Jonkershoek Valley. The tasting experience here is defined by a seamless blend of natural beauty, tranquillity, and a strong sense of place. A Tasting Room Like No Other […]
Origins of the Stark-Condé Family The story of Stark-Condé is rooted in a remarkable family history shaped by global movement, cultural exchange, and personal determination. At its centre is South African-born Hans Schröder, whose life journey would ultimately lay the foundation for the estate. Hans Schröder: A Life Beyond Borders Born in Stellenbosch in 1938, […]
Early Beginnings Stark-Condé’s story begins in 1998, when self-taught cellarmaster José Conde produced his first wine—a small parcel of Cabernet Sauvignon. Working with minimal equipment and guided largely by intuition and traditional methods, he crafted a maiden vintage of just 2,400 bottles. The results were extraordinary. The debut wine received 5 stars in the Platter’s […]
Introduction to MAN Family Wines MAN Family Wines (also known as MAN Vintners) is a modern South African wine success story founded in 2001 by José Conde and brothers Tyrrel and Philip Myburgh. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to produce wines that are affordable, high-quality, and enjoyable for everyday drinking. Each founder brought experience […]
Lievland Vineyards: Heritage, Terroir and a Stellenbosch Revival The People and Stories Behind the Name Lievland Vineyards is a historic Stellenbosch estate shaped by generations of colourful personalities, pioneering spirit, and a deep connection to place. From early European settlers to modern winemakers, the story of Lievland is one of resilience, reinvention, and a lasting […]
Kara-Tara Wines: A Multi-Regional Expression of South African Terroir Founding Origins The serendipitous story of Kara-Tara Wines begins with a talented young South African, Rüdger van Wyk, whose early career was shaped by the Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme and later the mentorship of José Conde at Stark-Condé Wines. After being appointed as a winemaker […]
Essay Wines: A Modern Expression of South African Blends Introduction to Essay Wines Essay Wines is a contemporary South African wine brand developed as an affiliated project of MAN Family Wines. Directed by winemakers José Conde and Tyrrel Myburgh, with Riaan Möller as head winemaker, the brand released its very first vintage—a red blend—in 2004. […]
