MATTHEW COPELAND ~ OWNER/WINEMAKER

MATTHEW COPELAND ~ OWNER/WINEMAKER/BOLANDER

Matthew Copeland, a proud Boland native from Paarl, discovered his passion for winemaking after briefly studying engineering. He trained internationally—in Switzerland, France, California, Australia and New Zealand—before qualifying at Elsenburg Agricultural College in 2003. After building award-winning wines at Welbedacht and Vondeling, and championing Merlot as Chairman of Merlot SA, he launched
Copeland Wines in 2026. Today, he produces seven wines, including Reserves in Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, blending tradition, innovation, and a love of nature.

Top Accolades include

Platter’s Wine Guide, multiple 5-star accoldaes for
Vondeling Babiana, the Monsonia and Philosophie. Awarded Best Bordeaux-style
red blend, 2024

Taransaud Top 10 Merlot SA ~ Winner 2022, 2023 &
2025

ABSA Top 10 Pinotage ~ Winner 2019 & 2022

Michelangelo International Wine Awards, Trophy: Best
Pinotage 2018 & 2024