People

Michael Back – Owner
Graduate of Stellenbosch University, joined the family business in 1976, impatient, reserved, back-room operator, enjoys building, creating and lateral thinking. Michael is passionate about environmental care.

John Spiers – CEO
Graduate of Rhodes University, joined Backsberg in 2005, from big corporate to medium size farming. Extensive experience in marketing and international business.

Clive Trent – Farm Manager
Graduate of Stellenbosch University, joined Backsberg in 1992, outgoing, forward thinking, loves change, a great teacher.

Guillaume Nell – Wine Maker
Graduate of Stellenbosch University, assisted with several harvests in Chianti Italy, Barossa Valley Australia, Rhone Valley France and Napa Valley California, before returning to SA. Winemaker at Muratie for 3 years and Winery of Good Hope for 2 years. Joined Backsberg in January 2008.

Simon Back – Marketing Manager
After completing High School, Simon took a gap year. He studied French in Montpellier, worked a vineyard in California and worked and traveled in China. He then completed a four-year Business Science Economics Degree at the University of Cape Town. Simon joined his father Michael at the farm in January 2008. He is heading up marketing.