Born with a French accent that adds a dash of charm to every lecture and event, our protagonist has become one of South Africa’s most celebrated culinary personalities. With an illustrious career spanning decades, he’s not just a sommelier; he’s a global wine whisperer, a culinary critic, and an empowering educator.

As a winemaker, he has traversed the globe, mastering the art of viticulture through over 50 harvests, including 28 in South Africa alone. His expertise doesn’t just end at the vineyard—he is also the mastermind behind the Sommelier Academy, where he imparts his vast knowledge of wine and food pairings to eager learners across various countries.

But let’s not stop at wine. As a seasoned food critic and former restaurant owner, he has rubbed shoulders with the culinary elite, having trained in Michelin-star establishments—a rare feat in South Africa. His discerning palate has made him a sought-after member of prestigious national and international juries, where he brings his expertise to the table, quite literally.

Recognized as South Africa’s best sommelier until 2025, he sits on the board of the Sommeliers of South Africa and Zimbabwe, and plays a pivotal role in the ASI (Association de la Sommellerie Internationale), where he shapes the future of sommeliers across 70 countries. With his sights set on the 2026 Best Sommelier of the World contest in Lisbon, he’s not just competing; he’s coaching future champions, having led teams in previous international contests, including the notable 9th place finish at the World Blind Wine Tasting Championship.

His culinary passion extends beyond the glass. Author of the award-winning book Passion for Pairing, he has crafted the go-to coffee table guide for food and wine enthusiasts in South Africa. This beloved tome has inspired countless food pairing dinners, featuring collaborations with chefs and local wines that tantalize taste buds.

An advocate for empowerment, he dedicates his efforts to running educational programs aimed at uplifting South Africa’s youth. Funded by both local and international organizations, including the Gerard Basset Foundation, his mission to educate and inspire transcends cultural barriers, earning him the respect of communities throughout the nation.

Since 2013, he has taken on the role of coach for Team South Africa at the World Championship of Blind Wine Tasting. This thrilling global competition challenges teams to identify grape varieties and vintages served blind. His coaching prowess was spotlighted in the award-winning documentary Blind Ambition, which follows the inspiring journey of Team Zimbabwe.

Whether he’s leading team-building exercises through the magic of wine, lecturing on tourism economics, or debating cultural differences with expatriates, he brings an infectious enthusiasm and depth of knowledge to every endeavor. With his captivating stories and expertise, he turns every event into an unforgettable experience, proving that life, like wine, is best enjoyed with passion and a touch of flair.