Raised amidst the sprawling vineyards of the Constantia Valley, Sebastian Worthington-Fitnum (27) didn’t always dream of becoming a winemaker. Uncertain of his path after school, he dabbled in various careers until a visit to the Buitenverwachting cellar opened his eyes to the possibility of combining his love for creating with his thirst for discovery.
Harvest season ignites his passion like no other. The anticipation of processing ripe fruit and turning it into liquid art fuels his early mornings and propels him through the rigorous winemaking process. And when the first bottle is uncorked, it’s not just a culmination of hard work; it’s a moment of pure pride, shared with enthusiasts who enjoy the fruits of his labour.
When asked to recount his favourite wine memory, he immediately refers to his first trip to Bordeaux, noting it’s the one experience everyone’s always jealous of. He worked a harvest at Château d’Yquem in Sauternes and, amidst the storied châteaux of Pauillac, Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, he indulged in the rare privilege of tasting exceptional wines and speaking with their producers. “Tasting such rare and exceptional wines, and meeting with the people behind them will always stay with me and motivate me throughout my career,” he says.
Reflecting on his career to date, Sebastian emphasises that he’s not concerned with personal achievements. Instead, he wants to be part of something bigger than himself and takes pride in his role as assistant winemaker at Klein Constantia, where he contributes to the legacy of this Constantia winery and the renowned Vin de Constance wine it produces.
Having worked with several well-known and respected winemakers, Sebastian lists Mark le Roux at Waterford Estate, Louis Strydom at Ernie Els Wines and Charla Bosman at Sijnn as some of the mentors who’ve shaped his career. However, it’s Klein Constantia winemaker Matt Day he’s looked up to since working in the estate’s tasting room in 2015 and especially now he’s worked with him for the past four vintages.
For Sebastian, winemaking transcends mere vocation – it’s a continuous, lifelong pursuit of excellence and artistry. He hopes to be able to look back on his career one day and see what kind of legacy he’s helped to create and the success a wine or brand has achieved thanks in part to his influence. “The wine industry comprises everything that excites and motivates me,” he says. “It’s as much a passion and hobby as it’s my career.”
Rapid fire Q&A
- Favourite wine ever tasted? 1921 Château d’Yquem. There was still so much life and complexity in the then 100-year-old wine.
- Favourite bingeworthy TV show? Old Top Gear. My brothers and I watched every episode growing up and we’re still watching the old episodes.
- Favourite pick-me-up song? "Mr Jones" by Counting Crows.
- Least-known fact about you? I’m an advocate for pineapple on pizza.
- Ideal holiday destination? I would love to go to Japan for the culture, people and food.
To keep up with his journey on Instagram, follow @sebwfitnum.