Legendary former Springbok prop Tendai “The Beast” Mtawarira has poured his passion into a new business project that has now officially culminated in the launch of a bespoke wine collection.
The Beast became a household name across the globe during an illustrious rugby career that saw him feature in over 100 games for the Durban-based Sharks, while he is the third-most capped Springbok player of all time after playing in 117 Tests.
Zimbabwe-born Mtawarira hung up his boots after playing a defining role in the Boks’ successful 2019 Rugby World Cup triumph, but as a man of many talents, his philanthropic work and business endeavours have elevated his “game” to another level ever since retiring.
As a self-confessed “secret wine lover”, The Beast has now gone public with the launch of his very own wine collection, founded on a brand philosophy of excellence, resilience, and passion.
“I have been eagerly awaiting the moment when we could share details of this exciting launch of The Beast Wine Collection, which is very close to my heart. Our mission is to offer a high-quality, locally produced wine to an extensive consumer market, and the production of this collection has represented true labour of love over the last year. I am confident that everyone will enjoy the product as much as I have enjoyed the journey of producing this collection of fine wines,” he said in a statement.
A unique partnership with SMCG Wines – a boutique wine export trader – has led to key collaborations with four unique vineyards from four different wine regions of the Western Cape which are Benguela Cove, Arra Vineyards, Holden Manz, and Cape Point Vineyards.
After countless hours spent visiting these vineyards and consulting with the owners and producers of some of the best wines in South Africa, The Beast Wine Collection includes an MCC Brut, Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon, Rosé, and a Sauvignon Blanc or Semillon, which each have a special meaning to Mtawarira. The full bouquet of products is now available to purchase online in SA – and soon globally.