From the rugby fields of Paarl to the revered vineyards of Burgundy and back to the storied slopes of Hemel-en-Aarde, Burton Francis’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Today, he proudly introduces Francis Wines, a boutique producer of expressive Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that tells a story – from soil to soul.
Born from a deep connection to land and legacy, Francis Wines is a tribute to perseverance, passion, and place. Crafted with inspiration from the purist winemaking traditions of Burgundy and the unique terroir of South Africa’s Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, the wines reflect the elegance, complexity, and integrity of both regions.
“At Francis Wines, we don’t just make wine,” says founder Burton Francis, a former professional rugby player turned winemaker. “We bottle stories — of hardship, hope, and heritage. These wines are my way of honoring where I come from, and where I’ve been.”
After his rugby career was cut short by injury in France, Francis pursued his long-held dream of winemaking by earning an MBA in Wine and Spirits Business from the Burgundy School of Business. Immersed in the Burgundian way of life, he became captivated by the tradition, detail, and artistry behind the world’s most iconic wines. This philosophy now guides his winemaking approach in South Africa.
With renowned winemaker Kevin Grant (Ataraxia) as lead consultant, Francis Wines embraces the nuances of the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge – its altitude, soils, and micro-climates – to produce site-specific, small-batch wines that celebrate purity, finesse, and terroir.
The current releases include
- Francis Wines Chardonnay 2023 – Cellar Door R540
Elegant and crystalline, with layers of lemon pith, white pear, and acacia flower. Matured in 500L French oak barrels for 16 months. Only 1,929 bottles produced. - Francis Wines Pinot Noir 2023 – Cellar Door R645
A velvet-textured wine with expressive notes of cherry, rhubarb, and spice, anchored by earthy undertones. Aged 16 months in French oak barriques. Limited to 938 bottles.
Beyond winemaking, Francis’s vision extends to social impact. Through the Francis Academy, 5% of every bottle sold supports rugby development and wine education for young South Africans – empowering the next generation to rise with purpose, pride, and potential.
Francis Wines is more than a wine brand; it is a testament to transformation. From kicking rugby balls barefoot on frozen fields to cultivating vines with care and craft, Burton Francis invites you to be part of a journey that celebrates place, people, and possibility.
