In 1996, the Kassier family purchased Highgate Farm, a small 1ha hydroponic vegetable farm in the misty KZN Midlands. Initially supplying local guesthouses, markets, and hotels, the farm grew into the Piggly Wiggly Farm Stall, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and craft dairy products.

 

As demand increased, Rudi and Cindy’s love for food and community fueled their expansion. In 2004, they planted the first vineyard, which eventually became Highgate Wine Estate. Today, the estate has a five-hectare vineyard producing Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz, including the first KZN-certified Chardonnay in 2010.

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In 2016, the family produced its first commercially viable wines, and production now averages 17,000 bottles per year. Rudi and Cindy’s daughter, Cathryn, and son, Nicholas, both joined the family business, leading to the creation of TOMCAT and Sakkie wines. In 2020, the family dedicated a wine to their first grandchild, Clarke Sage.

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In 2022, Highgate Cattle Company was launched, adding a stud Nguni herd to the farm. The Kassiers continue to build a thriving family business, with a beautiful tasting room and retail outlets at Piggly Wiggly, offering a journey of thoughtfully produced food and wine.