WeeklySA_AdminCULTURE: From the streets of Soweto to becoming a sommelier, Kwanele Ndlovu using his new book to break wine stereotypes…
By WSAM Correspondent
Growing up in Soweto, Kwanele Ndlovu never allowed his township upbringing to define the limits of his future.
Today, as a certified sommelier and Champagne Expert Level 3, Ndlovu is challenging perceptions around wine through his newly released book, The Township Sommelier. More than just a wine guide, the book is a passionate call to open the world of wine to communities where it has often seemed unfamiliar, intimidating or out of reach.
Driven by ambition and curiosity, Ndlovu relocated to Cape Town to train as a chef. It was in the demanding environment of professional kitchens that his appreciation for wine first began to grow. Surrounded by flavours, aromas and food pairings, he started exploring South Africa’s acclaimed wines — initially as companions to meals, but eventually as a craft and culture in their own right.
A defining moment came during a wine tasting when he recognised flavours and aromas that reminded him of his childhood memories in the township — the smokiness of open fires, earthy textures and the warmth of shared family meals.
“That’s when I knew that wine was not foreign to me, wine had been waiting for me,” Ndlovu writes in the book.
The revelation transformed his outlook on wine and its place in society.
He believes wine has too often been portrayed as exclusive, expensive and reserved for elite spaces, when in reality it is something everyone can enjoy and relate to.
“Wine is not just something to accompany a meal for a privileged few,” he says. “It’s meant to be enjoyed and savoured by all.”
For Ndlovu, becoming a sommelier reinforced the belief that wine is ultimately about connection, storytelling and shared experiences — not status or wealth.
“You don’t need a degree or to speak French,” he says. “You just need curiosity. Good wine doesn’t have to be expensive — it simply asks that you pay attention.”
Written in an accessible and relatable style, The Township Sommelier simplifies the language and rituals often associated with wine culture. It also places wine firmly within African experiences, pairing it with township cuisine and challenging assumptions about who wine is meant for.
Beyond wine itself, the book speaks to broader themes of confidence, inclusion and belonging, encouraging readers to embrace spaces and experiences that may once have seemed inaccessible.
The Township Sommelier retails for R300, including courier delivery. Copies can be ordered directly from Kwanele Ndlovu on 062 407 8316.
EVENTS
Nuts About Wine Fest
Wine lovers and weekend explorers can look forward to a lively day out at the Nuts About Wine Festival, set to take place on Saturday, 9 May 2026 at Pecan Manor Conference and Function Venue.
Running from 11:00 to 16:00, the festival promises a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere combining wine, spirits and entertainment in one scenic setting. Guests can enjoy tastings from a selection of wine farms, alongside gin and tequila offerings, giving the event a broader appeal beyond traditional wine experiences.
Beyond the tastings, the event is designed as a full-day outing. Visitors can expect live entertainment, a variety of food stalls, and dedicated kids’ activities, making it suitable for both groups of friends and families looking for a weekend escape.
A cash bar will also be available, while each ticket — priced at R300 per person — includes a branded tasting glass.
With limited capacity, organisers are encouraging early booking via Computicket to secure a spot at what promises to be a vibrant and flavour-filled day in Hartbeespoort.
Grape Escape at Kirstenbosch
Wine lovers can mark their calendars for the sixth annual Grape Escape Wine Festival, hosted by Wine Concepts, taking place at Moyo Restaurant June 11.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the evening event promises a curated tasting experience featuring an array of distinctive wines from 40 of South Africa’s leading producers.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of varietals and blends, including Cinsault, Viura, Mourvèdre, Verdelho, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and Barbera, alongside Chenin Blanc and Rhône-style favourites such as Viognier, Roussanne, Syrah and Grenache.
Running from 18:00 to 21:00, the festival offers more than just tastings. Carefully paired snacks will be served throughout the evening, enhancing the overall experience, while attendees will also be able to purchase featured wines at discounted prices on-site. Tickets cost R480 per person, which includes entry, a wine glass, tastings and snacks. Tickets are available via Quicket, at Wine Concepts stores, or at the door on the day, subject to availability.
With its focus on lesser-known varieties and premium local producers, the Grape Escape Wine Festival continues to position itself as a must-attend event for those looking to expand their palate and discover new favourites.
Trophy Show Tasting Joburg
Johannesburg’s wine calendar turns premium, as the Trophy Wine Show Great Tasting returns to the Sandton Convention Centre on June 11 for its sought-after one-night showcase.
Hosted by the Trophy Wine Show and presented by Investec, the “Hot-off-the-Press” tasting runs from 17h00 to 21h00, offering wine lovers exclusive access to around 150 award-winning wines.
Each selection has scored 90 points or more, identified through the show’s rigorous blind tasting process led by respected wine authority Michael Fridjhon alongside an expert panel of international and local judges.
Guests can expect a curated line-up of trophy, gold and silver medal winners, including standout categories such as Best White and Red Wines of Show, the International Judges’ Trophy winner, Best Premium Wine and the Discovery of the Show for exceptional value.
Adding to the appeal, attendees will enjoy first access to purchase these top-rated wines via specialist retailer Port2Port.
From rare finds to benchmark vintages, the Great Tasting promises a refined evening of discovery for serious collectors and casual enthusiasts alike.
Mother’s Day Gin Affair
An elegant blend of fine gin, floral artistry and indulgent high tea awaits guests in the heart of Constantia Valley this Mother’s Day. On May 9, Musgrave Gin teams up with uBlom to host an intimate afternoon experience that celebrates creativity, connection and refined taste.
Guests will be welcomed into a beautifully styled setting of fresh blooms, vintage glassware and relaxed sophistication, before enjoying a hands-on floral workshop guided by uBlom’s artists. Each attendee will create a seasonal bouquet to take home, adding a personal touch to the occasion.
The culinary highlight comes courtesy of acclaimed chef Elsa van der Nest, whose high tea menu features buttery French sablés, delicate finger sandwiches, a rich flourless chocolate cake and a savoury goat’s cheese quiche.
Musgrave’s signature Pink Gin and non-alcoholic Inspirit 0% will be served, while founder Simone Musgrave shares her journey of building a leading local spirits brand.
Each guest leaves with a bouquet, a bottle of gin and a cupcake — a fitting end to a thoughtfully curated afternoon. Tickets are limited at R1 490 per person
Durbanville Hills’ Thursdaze
Durbanville Hills has launched “Unfiltered Thursdaze”, a new after-hours wine experience inviting guests into the creative process behind its wines. Held every Thursday evening, the series offers exclusive access to wines still in development, including barrel samples, tank tastings and experimental blends.
Set beneath the estate’s olive trees, the experience begins with a welcome pour and three paired bites, before guests explore tastings, order pizza and engage directly with the winemaking team. Cellarmaster Pieter-Niel Rossouw says the concept celebrates the “honesty” of wine before it is finalised.
A highlight is Guess the Barrel, an interactive challenge where participants identify varietals for a chance to win future tickets. With curated house music and a relaxed atmosphere, the event blends wine, storytelling and social connection.
Tickets cost R150 via Dineplan. No under-18s.
Sandton’s Winter Wine
Wine lovers are invited to shake off the winter chill at the Local Kitchen Winter Wine Festival, set for at The Local Kitchen Co on May 30.
Running from 12h00 to 17h00, the festival promises an immersive afternoon of tasting, pairing and relaxed entertainment, with tickets starting from R250 via Quicket. More than 20 wineries will be showcased, offering guests the chance to explore a curated selection of South Africa’s leading wine regions.
From bold Cabernet Sauvignons of Stellenbosch to crisp Sauvignon Blancs from Constantia, the event caters to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers eager to refine their palate. Each pour tells a story of terroir, craftsmanship and heritage, inviting guests to engage directly with the wines and their origins.
Complementing the tastings, The Local Kitchen’s culinary team will serve a range of artisanal small plates, including charcuterie, cheeses and seasonal gourmet bites designed to enhance the wine experience.
Live acoustic music will provide a laid-back soundtrack throughout the afternoon, with an optional afterparty extending the experience into the evening, featuring a live band and DJ.
Vaal River Wine Expo
Wine lovers can look forward to a riverside celebration of South Africa’s finest vintages at the Vaal River Wine Expo on May 30 at Pont de Vaal.
Presented by the Vaal Wine Route, the 22nd edition of the popular expo runs from 12h00 to 17h00 and brings together a curated lineup of top wine estates and distributors from across the country.
Guests will have the opportunity to sample more than 200 wines, spanning a wide range of varietals and styles, in a relaxed setting along the banks of the Vaal River. The event is designed to cater to both seasoned wine enthusiasts and casual tasters looking to explore new favourites.
Beyond the tastings, the experience is elevated with live music, food stalls and a festive social atmosphere. Each R300 ticket includes unlimited tastings, a complimentary wine glass and a scenic boat cruise, offering guests a unique perspective of the Vaal River while they sip and unwind.
Tickets are available via Webtickets. – Compiled by Len Maseko: lenmaseko@weeklysamirror.news
