Beck Family Estates, the family-owned producer behind Graham Beck Cap Classique and Steenberg Vineyards, has appointed Helen Kock as its new Chief Executive Officer. Kock becomes the first woman to lead the group at a time when the UK, South Africa’s largest export market, is increasingly seeking wines that deliver provenance, regenerative farming, authenticity and values-led leadership.
Despite a 6% decline in South African wine exports to the UK in both value and volume in 2024, the UK remains the country’s most important export destination, accounting for ZAR 2.6 billion (approx. £110m) and 8.73 million litres. These shifts reflect changing consumer habits but also highlight renewed opportunity: the UK market is showing a stronger preference for producers who lead with identity, purpose and story, not only price.
Chairman Antony Beck says the appointment represents both continuity and a step forward. “Helen embodies the values we hold dear: passion, excellence and long-term vision. Her leadership will honour our heritage while positioning Beck Family Estates for a future defined by innovation, collaboration and renewed global relevance in markets like the UK.”
The moment is symbolically significant. Steenberg, one of Beck Family Estates’ cornerstone properties, was founded in 1682 by Catharina Ras, the first recorded female landowner at the Cape. More than three centuries later, the company’s leadership returns to female hands at a time when women remain underrepresented across the South African wine industry.
South Africa’s quality credentials in the UK continue to strengthen this momentum. Graham Beck’s Cuvée Clive 2019 placed in the top 10 at the London Wine Fair’s “Battle of the Bubbles”, the only Southern Hemisphere wine in a lineup including Krug and Dom Pérignon. The estate also earned Gold at the Decanter World Wine Awards and ranked #2 in the IWSC Top 50 Wine Producers. Steenberg’s rise is equally notable: Lady R Cap Classique 2019 earned standout recognition at the London Wine Competition, and all six Steenberg Vineyards’ wines scored 91+ points in the 2025 Tim Atkin MW South Africa Report. Together, these achievements reinforce South Africa’s growing premium reputation among UK trade and consumers.
Kock brings more than two decades of commercial, distribution and brand-building experience to the role. “British consumers are curious, informed, and deeply connected to brands with integrity. Sustainability, minimal intervention and authenticity play directly into South Africa’s strengths. We need to lean into that, less ‘budget-friendly’, more ‘beautifully crafted with conscience’. The UK rewards transparency and substance.”
Her leadership philosophy, shaped through her work at both Beck Family Estates and as Brand Portfolio Director at Vinimark, is anchored in clarity and consistency. “Distribution excellence and storytelling are equally critical. The UK rewards consistency, in quality and in visibility. Good logistics open the door, but great storytelling keeps it open.”
South Africa’s women-led wine movement continues to gain global attention. Around 75% of Black-owned wine brands in South Africa are women-owned, though they still account for less than 1% of domestic wine sales, underscoring both progress and ongoing structural constraints. Talent pathways are improving: the Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme has produced 18 women of colour among its 42 graduates, while women now serve in influential industry roles, including on the restructured South African Wine Board.
“Women bring nuance and connection to how we tell our stories,” Kock notes. “But this is bigger than gender. When diverse voices lead, the standard rises for everyone. Innovation begins with leadership diversity.”
She believes sustainability is one of South Africa’s most compelling differentiators, but only when expressed emotionally. “British consumers don’t just want proof that we’re sustainable; they want to feel it. Sharing the people behind our vineyards, our biodiversity, and our regenerative farming practices creates a connection. Compliance alone doesn’t inspire; culture does.”
Kock is candid about shifting perceptions of South African wine abroad. “The misconception is that South African wine is exceptional value rather than exceptional full stop. We must move from being the ‘smart buy’ to the ‘inspired choice’. When we stop apologising for where we come from and celebrate who we are, perception changes permanently.”
With post-Brexit trading pressures and ongoing economic headwinds shaping UK consumption, she emphasises collaboration as key. “We must double down on shared logistics, co-marketing and stronger category branding. South Africa competes best when we compete together. The UK rewards integrity and partnership above hype; this is where our strength lies.”
Looking ahead, her vision for the UK is one of heightened identity and deeper emotional resonance. “The next chapter will be more premium, more purposeful and more personal. Beck Family Estates will continue championing quality, innovation and storytelling, proving that South African wines can stand proudly beside the world’s best.”
