It will all come to a head when an international panel of judges determines Southern Africa’s overall champion in the 2024 Ubuntu International Sommeliers Trophy by live stream on Monday 9 December.
The trophy is one of the wine industry’s most anticipated events, particularly this year. For the first time since its inception, the competition features three of Africa’s best sommelier teams – Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mauritius.
“The Ubuntu International Sommeliers Trophy brings together some of our most skilled professionals and is a brilliant showcase of the exceptional talent that defines local wine excellence,” said Elmarie Rabe, manager of the event’s long-time sponsor and host Stellenbosch Wine Routes.
In addition to supporting the competition, the organisation is a backer of several industry-wide projects for sommelier development.
“Sommeliers are a cornerstone to elevating SA’s hospitality and wine industry,” Rabe added. “Together with hospitality influencers, they’re vital ambassadors that bridge the gap between winemakers and consumers with their expertise in wine pairing, service and storytelling. Their contribution shapes guest experiences and fosters a deeper appreciation for fine wine, and it has the ability to promote Stellenbosch and its wines on the global stage.”
The competition, organised by the Sommeliers Academy and Stellenbosch Wine Routes, once again takes place at Lanzerac wine estate, hotel and spa.
“We’re honoured to play host to this important event again,” said hotel general manager Emile Langenhoven. “Our commitment to delivering consistently high-calibre guest experiences aligns seamlessly with those embodied in the pursuits of the sommelier profession and the goals of the industry.”
Among the judges evaluating the performance of the contenders this year are a former Best Sommelier of the World, Giuseppe Vaccarini of Italy, and Michèle Chantome, vice-president of the World International of Sommeliers (ASI).
Every competitor in the teams were selected by their respective national organisations. On competition day, events kick off with the semi-final, which pits all 16 entrants against each other. The two best from each country will advance to the final.
Each of the final six perform a series of tasks on stage, in front of a public audience. The tasks – the details of which are kept secret until the day of the event – cover service, pairing, sales, identification, theory and guest interaction.
The finalists won’t only be grilled on wine. In addition to Stellenbosch Wine Routes, the competition is co-sponsored by the Beer Association of South Africa and the South African Brandy Foundation. As such, competitors will also face questions represented by these organisations.
The Ubuntu International Sommeliers Trophy is the only international sommelier contest in Africa and Middle East. Future plans are to expand the event to Kenya, Nigeria and Congo – also key markets for South African wine.
Recognising the transformative impact of skills development, Stellenbosch Wine Routes partners with the Sommeliers Association of South Africa (SASA) to invest in the next generation of talent.
Competitions such as the Best Young Sommelier and Best Sommelier of South Africa are key platforms for nurturing emerging talent, as demonstrated in September when George Young of Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate was named Best Young Sommelier of the Year. Alongside these events, training programmes such as those offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Sommelier Academy further empower professionals to refine their craft and inspire excellence across the industry.
- The competition finale will be live-streamed on the Sommeliers Academy Facebook page.
