In the heart of South Africa’s renowned wine region, the role of sommeliers in enhancing the wine experience is being celebrated with great fervour. Elmarie Rabe, the manager of Stellenbosch Wine Routes, emphasized the invaluable contribution of sommeliers on the eve of the prestigious Ubuntu Sommeliers Trophy competition. This event, organized by the Sommeliers Academy, stands as the first international sommelier contest on the African continent, showcasing the talents of wine service professionals from South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Scheduled for 11 December 2023, the competition is set to take place at the Lanzerac Hotel and Spa in Stellenbosch. The event, which will be broadcast internationally, involves a series of rigorous challenges designed to test the participants’ knowledge and skills in wine and culinary arts, as well as their ability to provide an exceptional experience.
, a key partner of the Ubuntu Sommelier Trophy since its inception, recognizes the critical role sommeliers play in linking fine wine with the consumer’s dining experience. With a surge in visitors expected in the Cape during the festive season, the importance of sommeliers in elevating the efforts of vineyards and cellars is more pronounced than ever. As South Africa’s first official wine route and a leading wine tourism destination, Stellenbosch Wine Routes is dedicated to highlighting and supporting this vital relationship.
Jean Vincent Ridon, the manager of the Sommeliers Academy, expressed hope for expanding the competition to include more African countries, while also exploring the unique identity of Stellenbosch wines. The Stellenbosch Wine Route also supported various other initiatives, including hosting the Court of Master Sommeliers graduation program, and maintaining a long-standing partnership with the Sommelier Association of South Africa’s Best Sommelier of South Africa competition.
The impact of these events is significant. For instance, during the Court of Master Sommeliers program, 8 participants, including Sivuyile Komani from the Pinotage Youth Development Academy, received introductory passes, with two achieving certifications. In the Best Sommelier of South Africa competition, Jean Vincent Ridon was crowned after four determined attempts, a testament to his perseverance and dedication. His achievements serve as an inspiration in the industry, motivating many to pursue excellence in the world of wine and sommelier expertise.
