Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Durbanville, the famed Groot Phesantekraal winery is turning heads as it commemorates one of South Africa's most intriguing historical figures, Anna de Koning (sometimes written as de Koningh or de Coningh). The Cape Town Heritage Foundation recently unveiled a Blue Plaque in her honour, recognising her remarkable journey from slave to socialite in one of Cape society's most notable eras.
Born around 1661 to a slave and demonstrating exceptional beauty and resilience, Anna's life unfolded against the richly woven tapestry of 17th- and 18th-century Cape Town. She inherited Groot Phesantekraal in 1724 after her husband, Olaf Bergh—a Swedish explorer and Dutch East India Company official—passed away, placing her amongst the wealthiest individuals of her time.
The family-run winery, which has been in the Brink family since 1897 and boasts roots going back nearly 330 years, focuses on eco-sustainable agricultural practices whilst producing award-winning wines.
"While we celebrate Anna with our signature cool-climate Chenin Blanc, it is only one of several ways we honour our past," said André Brink, the fourth-generation owner.
Blue Plaques, which serve as internationally recognised historical markers, help link significant locations with influential figures and events. Groot Phesantekraal, one of the earliest farms in the Cape dating to 1698, encapsulates the essence of Cape history with its rich agricultural heritage.
During a special Durbanville bicentennial celebration spanning from 8 to 10 April, visitors are invited to taste the flagship Anna de Koning Chenin Blanc—crafted by the award-winning winemaker Richard Schroeder. This limited-edition wine, celebrated for its honeyed citrus notes, encapsulates Anna's spirit and the farm's dedication to quality. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample it alongside the farm's unwooded Chenin expression, known for its perfumed but elegant profile.
Beyond her prosperous legacy, much of Anna’s life reflects South Africa's complex history. Born to Angela of Bengal, a freed slave, she navigated a world burdened by the societal norms of her time. Despite the challenges, Anna showcased her unwavering character and dedication, staying by her husband’s side through his trials, including his banishment to Robben Island.
Reflecting on her extraordinary life, Brink mused, "We can deduce from her actions that she was a compassionate woman." Anna's legacy is not only captured in her tangible contributions but also through narratives that continue to inspire. Her story has become the subject of two novels showcasing her resilience and the culturally rich landscape of South Africa’s past.
Visitors to Groot Phesantekraal can also engage with the site's historical significance by dining in restored 18th-century buildings, where the menu encompasses local culinary traditions that celebrate Anna's heritage. On #DrinkChenin Day, June 21, wine lovers can raise a toast to Anna with the current vintage of Anna de Koning Chenin Blanc, truly encapsulating her enduring spirit.
As the winery opens its doors for extended hours amidst the bicentennial celebrations, one thing is clear: Groot Phesantekraal is more than just a destination for fine wine; it is a cornerstone of South African history and a tribute to the women, like Anna de Koning, who shaped it.