About Us
Long Dog Wines is a vineyard with a long tail and an even longer story.
In 2017, Jackie and Dennis Lamberti sold up their business in Johannesburg and headed for the Western Cape in search of something new, a home in the winelands, maybe a slower pace, a fresh chapter. What they didn’t plan for was falling head over heels for a little farm they almost overlooked.
Dennis fell for the vineyard. Jackie, for the house. And in true Lamberti fashion, a deal was struck: Dennis could make wine, and Jackie could rescue dogs. They moved down with four beloved rescues, Dino, Lassy, Noodle, and Gunner, and discovered Sam, a quiet German Shepherd left behind on the farm. She was quickly promoted to vineyard manager. And just like that, Long Dog Wines was born.
It’s a place where bold wines are made with care, where rescued dogs run the show, and where every bottle tells a story of second chances and new beginnings. Over time, the family grew, though not without heartbreak. The farm lost Gunner in a tragic accident, but his legacy lives on in every run across the lawn, every bark at the wind, and every glass raised in celebration. Soon, Enzo, Ziggy, and Nibby joined the crew, each bringing their own charm, chaos, and character to the vineyard.
Today, Long Dog Wines is more than just a winery. It’s a working farm, a sanctuary, a family, and a tribute to great grapes, long dogs, and the joy of following your nose into something unexpected.
Meet the Long Dogs
The team behind the bark & the bottle
At Long Dog Wines, we believe good wine takes character, and we’ve got that in every bottle and every bark. Our team may walk on four legs, but they bring heart, hustle, and a whole lot of personality to the vineyard, the cellar, and everything in between.
Sam
Purebred German Shepherd
Vineyard Manager
The guardian of the vines and the calm leader of the pack. Sam is surefooted, strong, and keeps everything running on time. Whether she’s inspecting rows or chasing rocks across the lawn, she’s always in control, and always kind.
Hobbies: Swimming, rock-chasing, keeping her workmates in line with a friendly paw.
Signature quote: “Stay grounded. Stay alert. And never forget where you left your rock.”
Dino
Dachshund-Rottweiler Cross
Winemaker
Bold in the cellar and charming in the courtyard, Dino is the flavour master behind every blend. Loyal, happy, and never afraid to get his paws dirty during crush, with a soft spot for the ladies and a nose for perfection.
Hobbies: Getting dirty, barking at the neighbour dogs, sweet-talking guests.
Signature quote: “Wine is about instinct, balance, and a good bit of digging around.”
Enzo
Long Dog Mix (Every Kind)
Farm Manager
The bakkie boss and all-round fixer. Enzo is positive, practical, and always the first to lend a paw. From greasing equipment to keeping morale high, he keeps the whole operation rolling, usually with mud on his paws and a biscuit under guard.
Hobbies: Swimming, guarding his morning biscuit, lying across the entire couch.
Signature quote: “If it’s broken, I’ll fix it. If it’s mine, don’t touch my biscuit.”
Noodle
Dachshund-Chihuahua Cross
Head of Security
Don’t let the size fool you, Noodle runs the tightest ship on the farm. Stock control, security checks, and delivery schedules are all under his watchful eye. Feisty and practical with a bark that means business.
Hobbies: Security cameras, spreadsheets, and self-defence practice.
Signature quote: “Trust is earned. Inventory is counted.”
Nibby
Cross Afrikaner & Great Dane (probably)
Intern
Still finding her niche and loving the journey. Nibby is pure joy on four legs, helpful, hopeful, and always everywhere. From vineyard to cellar to picnic table, she’s got energy for days and love for everyone.
Hobbies: Running non-stop, staring while you eat, playing with everyone.
Signature quote: “Need help? No? I’ll help anyway!.”
Ziggy
Mixed Breed Marvel
Marketing Manager
Loud, beautiful, and bursting with flair, Ziggy is the face and voice of Long Dog Wines. She knows her angles, owns every event, and can charm the corks out of a bottle with one wag.
Hobbies: Being the star of every party, chatting with fans, looking flawless.
Signature quote: “If you’re not turning heads, darling, you’re doing it wrong.”
Lassy
Pure Dachshund
Retired Wine Taster
The grande dame of the vineyard, now retired but still running the fireplace and storytelling circuit. A former tasting room queen with a love for deep reds and deeper conversations.
Hobbies: Reading by the fire, sharing vintage stories, sneaking extra sips.
Signature quote: “A good wine tells a story. A great one reminds you of your own.”
Together, we’re Long Dog Wines
Built on paws, poured with pride, and best enjoyed in good company. Come meet the team, we’ll be here (likely underfoot), making magic happen.