Antoinette Vermooten, visionary of Bayede Royal Wines, embarked on a journey with King Goodwill Zwelithini to create a wine brand celebrating Zulu heritage and fostering positive change. In our Faces of Summer campaign, she shares two of their favourite wines, one favoured by Zwelithini for esteemed guests.
Antoinette Vermooten, the visionary behind Bayede Royal Wines, embarked on a remarkable journey inspired by her meeting with King Goodwill Zwelithini on a wine farm. United by a shared vision, they aspired to create a wine brand that not only celebrated the rich Zulu heritage but also served as a catalyst for positive change.
At the heart of Bayede Royal Wines lies a commitment to supporting and empowering women in rural areas, ensuring a legacy of prosperity and job creation for generations to come.
A powerful tool
“The late king approached me wanting to start an African royal brand, one with the signature of the king,” Vermooten shares. “He was not a big wine drinker, but he wanted to use wine with the royal brand as an instrument to give back to the poor and the needy.”
Each bottle has beadwork representing the craftsmanship of women living in rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal. “We paid more than R1.8 million for the ladies in the rural areas that craft the beadwork. And it’s something that you can put around your arm,” explains Vermooten.
Uniting nations
“Bayede” means “hail the king” and “unite the nations” in Zulu. It is the only royal signature and “by appointment to” trademark on the African continent, reflecting Zulu royalty, history, culture, and quality.
In parallel with this rich history, Bayede wine grapes embody a pursuit of excellence. “We select wines from different regions, and we also formed partnerships with existing wineries,” explains Vermooten.
Bayede wines have not only captivated the interest of locals but have also made a significant impact on the international stage, finding resonance in markets as diverse as Vietnam, China, and across Africa. “In Africa, there is a very huge affection for the brand, where people understand French wine and can appreciate the Bayede offering,” Vermooten says.
Proud Bordeaux blend
For Food For Mzansi’s Faces of Summer campaign, Vermooten has selected Bordeaux Blend – Jubilee. This is their flagship wine, one that they are very proud of.
“It’s a complex wine with a variety of merlot, cabernet, and shiraz. You will smell pepper and a little bit of vanilla on the nose. That stems from the French oak in which it was matured. It has a very smooth finish.
“This will go very well with red meats, but it will also stand against curries like red curry and green curry. The sweetness will complement and bring out the taste of the food, so it’s a very versatile wine,” Vermooten says.
This wine has earned a prestigious array of accolades. Noteworthy awards include the Yantai Gold Award in China in 2011, the esteemed Michelangelo Award in 2012, and the distinguished D’Escoffier Disciple Award in 2012 from France. Closer to home, the wine has garnered the esteemed 3 Star Platter Award, as well as a Bronze Medal at Veritas 2017 and a Silver Medal at Veritas 2018.
King Zwelithini’s favourite
Their shiraz is also a must-try this summer. It was King Zwelithini’s favourite.
“He served it at all his fancy functions and VIP’s. That was the wine that he wanted to present to his international guests from kings to ministers, and presidents,” shares Vermooten.
The shiraz has a smokiness on the nose that blends with vanilla flavours from maturing in French and American oak barrels. It is soft on the palate with enough tannin to bring it into good balance.
This wine will complement any spicy dishes such as Cape Bobotie, or ostrich steak, or enjoy it on its own. Accolades include Veritas Wine Awards 2021 Bronze Medal; Hidden Gem Platters 2020; 3 Star Platter Awards; Veritas Wine Awards Silver 2017; and Michelangelo Awards Gold 2016.
Stay tuned!
Vermooten says Bayede Royal Wines is launching a nationwide campaign to share its exceptional wines with enthusiasts nationwide. If you’re in Gauteng, get ready, as the spotlight is soon turning to your region. Stay tuned by keeping your eyes glued to Bayede’s website and social media channels for exciting updates and opportunities to experience the regal taste of Bayede wines right in your community.
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