Hendrien grew up in a family where wine and food were central to everyday life, shaping her belief that winemaking is a beautiful balance between art and nature and a privilege to create something special from what the land provides. Her passion for crafting something meaningful from nature led her to pursue a BScAgric (Viticulture and Oenology) at Stellenbosch University, graduating in 2016. She began her career at Babylonstoren as a harvest intern before becoming assistant winemaker, later gaining international experience during a harvest in Australia.

Returning home, she joined Piekenierskloof, where she progressed to winemaker before pursuing her dream of building her own cellar in 2022, the birth of Hartstocht. Her approach is guided by respect for nature, allowing the fruit to lead the process rather than forcing outcomes, with a strong focus on balance, precision, and detail.  

Based in Citrusdal, her hometown traditionally known for citrus farming, she finds deep meaning in cultivating vineyards in a place she never imagined would become part of her winemaking journey. Through her wines, Hendrien hopes to create genuine moments of connection, something to be shared, enjoyed, and talked about with family and friends, shaped by consistency, careful observation, and a hands-on