THE CAPSULE| October 2001

Dear Friends,

Two conversations perplexed me today. The first disturbing interlude took place in my office with Candace ‘Can Do’ Tessendorf – Flagstone’s on-trade and off-trade sales and marketing kingpin. Candace was at the Veritas Awards (The South African National Wine Awards) last Friday and Flagstone did well, taking away two double golds, two golds and six silver medals. If you count up the medals in these three award categories Flagstone was placed third behind KWV and Simonsig.

“So, Can Do,” I inquire. “What does it feel like to work for such a successful winery?”

“Well, big chief, there were a few wineries that did better than us.” she answered seriously.

There were a few wineries that did better than us – however you look at the stats. I realised again that it’s tough working with Flagstonians – they expect so damn much. But, Candace’s answer to my playful question also shut me up, because we all know we have a long way to go before we are anywhere near our goals. Still, I thought, as she swept off to allocate more wine, we can be really happy with ourselves. Maybe my winemakers, my fellow hooligans, will understand my euphoria.

Nothing however could prepare me for my chat with ‘The Big D’ – Dudley Wilson – over the telephone. He and Matt ‘Capt. Tunnel’ Orton are in Australia at a winemaking conference.

“So, D, what do you think – two double golds – brilliant hey!”


Bruce Jack

Winemaker