At only 21, Karla Nel has already started carving a path for herself in the South African wine industry. After matric, she opted to take a gap year instead of pursuing her initial plan to do a sports science degree. “Growing up I was always surrounded by wine and its people, but never realised the influence it would have later in my life,” she says.
In 2022, she joined Ernie Els Wines as a tasting room assistant and was introduced to the complexities of winemaking by Louis and Rianie Strydom. Her fascination for wine was kindled, setting her on a path she’d never anticipated. “I was blown away by the various aspects of winemaking, customer relationship management and sharing my interests with others,” she says. “This led me to learn more about wine through the Cape Wine Academy and pursue a degree in marketing.”
Last year, she joined the University of Stellenbosch Wine Culture Society (USWCS) and became a committee member tasked with marketing and media responsibilities. She’s played a pivotal role in the society’s exponential growth, which now boasts over 600 members. In her role as social media marketer for USWCS, she gained experience in facilitating connections in the industry, arranging events and promoting wine education. This then led to her taking up the position of wine sales specialist at The Stellenbosch Collection in October 2023.
Reflecting on her journey, Karla acknowledges the pivotal role played by her family and mentors. Her mom’s unwavering support, and Louis and Rianie’s guidance have been instrumental in shaping her passion and understanding of the business side of wine. Weekends spent with the Strydoms not only deepened her appreciation for wine but also instilled in her the belief that it should be inclusive and relatable to all.
Karla is excited about exploring up-and-coming wine regions such as the Swartland, Elgin and Hemel-en-Aarde, along with emerging areas such as Ceres. They offer endless opportunities for discovery and innovation, fuelling her passion for exploration and experimentation.
To bolster her ambitious aspirations in the wine industry, she enrolled for a higher certificate in marketing at the IMM Graduate School. She also wants to complete her WSET
diploma and envisions herself in a brand management position for a winery one day.
With a planned harvest in Bordeaux this year, she remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead. While winemaking holds a certain allure, she remains focused on gaining diverse experiences and honing her skills across all facets of the wine industry.
Rapid fire Q&A
- Favourite wine ever tasted? Matias Riccitelli Vineyard Selection Viejos Vinedos en Pie Franco Malbec
- Favourite bingeworthy TV show? Clarkson’s Farm
- Favourite pick-me-up song? "Dancing Queen" by Abba
- Least-known fact about you? I ride and compete in equestrian show jumping.
- Ideal holiday destination? Somewhere on a farm in the South of France.
Follow Karla's journey. She is on Facebook, Instagram as @_karlanel and @vineyardaffair, and LinkedIn.