Journey’s End: Meet-The-Winemaker Mike Dawson of South Africa

Join us for a brilliant evening of South African wine as we welcome Journey’s End winemaker Mike Dawson for a special tasting here at West London Wine School!

Dynamic, engaging and hugely talented, Mike will guide us through the wines of Journey’s End Vineyards, a family-owned estate founded by the Gabb family, originally from Shropshire. After successful careers in the wine trade, the Gabbs discovered the Journey’s End site in 1995 at the southern edge of the Stellenbosch wine region, and immediately recognised the extraordinary potential of the land.

Back then, the property was little more than rugged, untamed farmland. With vision, patience and a lot of hard work, it has been transformed into a thriving estate with around 40 hectares of vineyards producing a range of award-winning wines.

But Journey’s End isn’t just about great wine. The estate has become a leader in ethical and sustainable winemaking. It was the first winery in South Africa to achieve B Corp Certification, recognising its commitment to environmental stewardship, fair employment and long-term sustainability.

The vineyards sit on ancient granite soils in the foothills of the dramatic Helderberg Mountains, just 7km from the Atlantic Ocean. Cooling maritime breezes help preserve freshness and elegance in the grapes — a hallmark of the wines Mike crafts today.

Expect a fascinating journey through one of South Africa’s most exciting estates, with plenty of stories from the cellar, insights into Stellenbosch terroir, and of course a line-up of superb wines to taste along the way. 

Wines on Tasting:

• Journey’s End Cap Classique 
• Ad Infinitum Sauvignon Blanc
• V1 Chardonnay
• Destination Chardonnay
• V3 Cabernet Franc
• The Griffin Syrah
• Cape Doctor Bordeaux Blend