The wine industry has lost one of its great giants Peter Pentz Sr (80), the founder of Groote Post Vineyards, who has passed away.
Sharing the news on Facebook, Groote Post posted that it is “with great sadness” that they announce the passing of Pentz Sr, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and the visionary founder of Groote Post.
“From his first days in dairy to establishing Groote Post, he built with perseverance, conviction, and a deep respect for heritage. To those who knew him, he was a man of principle, firm in his convictions, loyal to his word, and steadfast in his care for his family and community. His presence will be missed, but the mark he left endures,” the statement read.
Groote Post is a historic family-owned wine estate located in the scenic Darling Hills along South Africa’s West Coast. Once a thriving 18th-century farm, it has grown into a celebrated producer of premium wines while preserving its deep agricultural roots. Making it even more special was the three generations working together – Peter Pentz Sr, his son Nick Pentz, and grandson Peter Pentz Jr.
The Pentz family acquired Groote Post in 1972 and later expanded the property by adding the historic Klawer Valley farm, resulting in a combined estate of 2,800 hectares. Peter Pentz Sr’s grandfather established the Union Dairy in Cape Town in 1904, and over time, dairy herds were developed in Tokai, Philippi, and Darling (Groote Post). In 1998, Peter Pentz Sr received the prestigious South African Agricultural Writers’ National Farmer of the Year Award for his excellence in dairy farming. However, in 2001, the Pentz family made the pivotal decision to sell their prized Holstein herd and shift their focus entirely to producing world-class wines.
Condolences from far and wide has been pouring in, showcasing the impact and legacy Pentz’s Sr has left behind.
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