Three lucky local young trainee winemakers, chosen for their cellar experience, level of knowledge and an understanding of the industry, were able to travel back in time by almost a thousand years. As recipients of the 2009 Patrick Grubb Bursary they were given the opportunity to work on ancient French estates, dating back to the 12th century, including two in Margaux, Château d' Angludet and Château Durfort-Vivens.

The three, Andrew Williams of Steenberg, Nico Fischer of Simonsig and M'Daan of Overgaaw spent three weeks working in Bordeaux, mostly in the cellars, but also learning about the harvesting and caring of vineyards, where they discovered just how artfully the French are able to blend history with the latest technology.

'The French are wonderful people, even though they refuse to speak English. They have a magnificent style of winemaking and prepare the most delicious food", says Nico. M'Daan concurs; "I felt right at home and was treated to some amazing 1980s wines from the cellar and many special dinners in town. Contrary to what I was told about the

French, I found the people very friendly".

According to the three, there are some differences between their experiences of winemaking at the Cape compared to what they encountered in Bordeaux. "They use oxygen rather than water to clean the tanks, the early morning mist serves as irrigation and their pumps and presses are all computer-programmed. Their tank and barrel volumes are larger than ours as well", says Andrew. "It was very impressive to see their first-rate underground cellars", exclaims Nico.

I am so inspired by what I learnt that I have a goal to make my own of barrels of Cabernet one day, under my own label", says M'Daan. On asked how soon his reply was: "I'm not quite sure but I just know it will definitely be a Cabernet Sauvignon from Stellenbosch."

The 35th Nederburg Auction marked the final allocation of the Patrick Grubb Bursary.

Carina Gous, Distell's Business Director of Wines, says; "The Patrick Grubb Bursary initiative, which ran for 11 years in association with the Nederburg Auction, has enabled nearly 20 individuals from previously disadvantaged communities, working in the wine industry, to gain international experience in the vineyards of some of the world's finest wine regions. His contribution has been invaluable in uplifting the careers of young aspiring wine professionals - we look forward to continuing the project with the launch of the Auctioneer's Initiative, in association with the auctioneer for this year's event, Anthony Barne from Bonhams in London."

Further information on the Auctioneer's Initiative, including details of how to apply, will be announced shortly.