The developers of the R1 billion Mandela Rhodes Place have finalized negotiations with internationally renowned winemaker Jean Vincent Ridon of Signal Hill Wines.

Japie Hugo, Eurocape's head of business development, says: "The Winery is the first of many operator announcements which will be made in the coming months. Signal Hill winery represents the unique type of tenant that we want to showcase - specialist, niche and a leader in its industry. 

The winery will act as a catalyst for the myriad of lifestyle opportunities offered within Mandela Rhodes Place, providing residents and visitors with a wide variety of entertainment and leisure options."

Ridon, a French winemaker, started producing wines in South Africa in 1997 and he will relocate Signal Hill from its current premises in time for the 2006 harvest. The winery will see the full production process taking place on-site which will include de-stemming, crushing, fermentation, barrelling, bottling and packaging.

In addition the winery will incorporate wine tastings, wine sales to the public and offer light meals. 

(Source: Cape Business News / 5 Aug 2005)