Horse racing in South Africa is a very glamourous and popular sport. From the Met in Cape Town to the Durban July, each creating a frenzy for the sport and the fashion that traditionally goes with a day at the races.

In 2006, Takuan von Arnim, our Cellar Master, along with his wife Christiane, were invited to the prestigious Yearling’s sale at Summerhill Stud in Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Takaun performed sabrage, the art of removing the top of a Champagne bottle with a sabre, made famous and practiced by his dad, and founder of Haute Cabrière, Achim von Arnim, to open the event and bidding.

The following evening, a mare named Vin Fizz, gave birth to a foal, and the name that was top of mind and suggested for this foal, was Pierre Jourdan! His racing career took the fraternity by storm, fondly being dubbed ‘The People’s Horse.’

On your next visit to our Franschhoek winery, be sure to visit our History Wall for more stories about the history of Haute Cabrière and the von Arnim Family. 

If you fancy adding a sabre and some Cap Classique to your next occasion – shop now!