PRESS: Fortes Family Wines launched in honour of David Kramer

Fahiem Stellenboom

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On Monday, 8 December 2026, Neil Fortes of Fortes Family Wines in Napier launched a special Legacy Edition dry white Sauvignon Blanc and dry red Shiraz at The Baxter, created in honour of his long-time friend, the legendary South African singer, songwriter, playwright and director, David Kramer.

Photo by Fahiem Bardien.

“I am thrilled to launch the David Kramer Dry White and Dry Red wines, in partnership with Fortes Family Wines,” says Kramer. “My hope is that these wines will soon be seen in Cape Town theatres and become popular throughout South Africa, as a percentage of the gross sales of these wines will go to the benefit of the Theatre Benevolent Fund, which provides help to theatre practitioners in financial distress.”

Fortes Family Wines is a boutique South African vineyard producing award-winning wines in limited quantities. Nestled in the cool-climate region of Napier, the estate is known for crafting wines of exceptional extract, character and quality, grown in soils rich with complexity and structure.

Founded and led by Neil Fortes - who has over 40 years of experience in the wine industry - the name Fortes, meaning “strong” in Spanish, reflects both the family lineage and the strength and intensity for which their wines are celebrated.

Neil and David’s friendship spans more than 50 years. They met at Leeds University, where they studied textile design and management, living in the same residence. United by music and political consciousness, they spent their student years travelling widely and once busked. They forged a bond grounded in creativity, shared values and a deep love for South Africa. Their families would later grow up closely together.

“Before what became a monumental music career, David once asked me whether he should stay in textile design or play music,” recalls Neil. “Without hesitation, I told him the answer was obvious. Clearly, he made the right choice.”

Speaking about the Legacy Edition wines, he adds: “To have a legacy, you need a product - something that carries the story forward. Using David’s name in this way allows people to celebrate him while helping us give back. Wine is a wonderful vehicle for that. Proceeds can support those who need it most and the Theatre Benevolent Fund is the perfect beneficiary to help drive this legacy.”

Photo by Fahiem Stellenboom.

The Theatre Benevolent Fund supports South African arts and entertainment professionals long after the final curtain call. Since 1964, it has been a vital beacon of support for those who have enriched the nation through theatre, film, radio, television, live performances and arts media. The organisation provides essential assistance to individuals facing financial hardship due to age or ill health. Services may include monthly financial grants to assist with daily living expenses, medical expense support (help with medical bills not covered by insurance, including critical treatments), funeral assistance to ensure a dignified burial and care placement in old-age homes and care centres.

“We are excited about this partnership and deeply grateful about the possibility of a new revenue stream,” says Gillian Lindner. “The Theatre Benevolent Fund receives no subsidies and relies solely on donations, bequests, book sales, arts festivals, events and now, this truly unique fundraising initiative spearheaded by Neil Fortes from Fortes Family Wines and guided by South Africa's legendary entertainer and humanitarian, David Kramer. This wonderful gesture will go a long way to help support the beneficiaries.”

David Kramer’s long and celebrated history with The Baxter - often in collaboration with the late Taliep Petersen - is well documented, with internationally acclaimed productions such as District Six - The Musical and Kat and the Kings among his many successes. His 2020 reimagining of Danger in the Dark also earned widespread praise. Famed for his iconic red veldskoene, David’s unmistakable image has been incorporated into the Legacy wine label design, giving it a personal and authentic signature.

The David Kramer Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz wines will be available on sale at The Baxter bar just in time for the festive season.