Three new Cape Wine Masters are from the Cape and one from Johannesburg. Since its inception in 1983, 120 Cape Wine Master candidates to date have achieved this elite self-study qualification, making this year’s achievements all the more remarkable.
Mark Philp CWM (chair of ICWM) with the four new Cape Wine Masters – Bradley Wood, Jacques Lombard, Riaan van der Spuy, and Janine van Zyl – and Emile Langenhoven (GM of Lanzerac Hotel) and Beyers Truter (chair of the Pinotage Association).
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Pinotage and the first bottled Pinotage under the Lanzerac label, a prestigious awards luncheon hosted by the Pinotage Association and the Lanzerac Hotel and Spa together with the Institute of Cape Wine Masters (ICWM) was held on Friday, 22 August, with graduate Jacques Lombard, the blind graduate in attendance. He was joined by fellow Cape Wine Master graduates – Bradley Wood, a Johannesburg-based specialist urologist in private practice; Riaan van der Spuy, cellarmaster at Swartland Winery, and Janine van Zyl, a sommelier and international account manager at global wine and spirits social media agency, FirstPour.
The top graduates were awarded trophies in four categories: sparkling wine, viticulture, research paper excellence and brandy. Bradley Wood scored a hattrick by receiving three trophies namely for Sparkling Wine presented by Villiera Wines; for Viticulture presented by Jordan Winery and for Research Paper Excellence presented by Kleine Zalze Wines. Janine Van Zyl received the trophy for Brandy presented by Van Ryn's Brandy.
After losing his sight in 1996, at the age of 26, Lombard’s introduction to the wine industry came through a tasting group for visually impaired wine enthusiasts, founded by Hermann Kirschbaum, then winemaker at Buitenverwachting. Twenty years later in 2016, he founded Winebrands Pty and pursued formal studies with distinction at the Cape Wine Academy. Lombard's dissertation examined the formation, health effects, and mitigation of biogenic amines in wine, dispelling common myths about sulphites and highlighting the amine compounds as a key cause of wine-related discomfort.
Van der Spuy’s dissertation reviewed high-altitude viticulture internationally and in South Africa, assessing its benefits, challenges, and potential as a collective marketing strategy to enhance the country’s wine industry.
Van Zyl's dissertation investigated how South African wineries can harness digital marketing, social media, and influencer collaborations to strengthen brand presence, engage consumers, and drive sales.
Wood’s dissertation explored whether South Africa’s Cape South Coast offers the country’s most favourable terroir for producing quality Syrah, concluding that the region delivers distinctive, world-class expressions shaped by its cool maritime climate and unique soils.
The full dissertations are available on the Institute of Cape Wine Masters website: icwm.co.za.
During the past year nine new candidates have entered the CWM programme, and there are now 29 CWM students enrolled for the five-year self-study programme, the highest figure ever.
Beyers Truter, Chairperson of the Pinotage Association, led a special tasting of the Grand Pinotage wines, assisted by Abrie Beeslaar. These six Pinotages feature the past decades' most prestigious producers. The tasting was concluded with the Lanzerac Commemorative Pinotage 2021, a tribute to the world’s first bottled Pinotage – a 1959 Lanzerac Pinotage – in a similar bottle and original label.
The names of the respective winners of the Wine Personality of the Year award and the Dave Hughes Trophy were announced at the annual ICWM black-tie dinner held at Beyerskloof in Stellenbosch on Saturday, 23 August 2025.
Ken Forrester, affectionately known as “Mr Chenin”, was named the 2025 Wine Personality of the Year in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the South African wine industry and his unwavering dedication to championing Chenin Blanc. As chairman and founding member of the Chenin Blanc Association since its inception in 2000, Forrester has been instrumental in transforming perceptions of the cultivar from a workhorse grape to one of South Africa’s most celebrated varietals. His vision has driven pioneering research, preservation of old vineyards, and a shift in focus from volume production to quality, while his infectious energy and global advocacy have elevated the reputation of South African Chenin Blanc on the world stage.
Dr Winifred (Winnie) Bowman has been designated the sixth winner of the Dave Hughes Trophy (instituted in 2020 in honour of the late co-founder and honorary CWM of the Cape Wine Academy), for her dedication to the wine industry as an international and local judge, wine writer, and for her involvement as a mentor in the ICWM educational sphere. Dr Bowman’s original CWM dissertation, attained in 2008, was on an accreditation programme for a South African wine education institute. She has a particular passion for South African brandy.
The Institute of Cape Wine Masters’ Vision 2030 is steaming ahead with the three candidates that joined the development programme in 2024: Narissa Pieters – junior winemaker at Rustenburg Wine Estate; Kelsey Shungking – assistant winemaker at Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines and Lerato Molekeki – Gauteng territory manager for Beck Family Estates. International funding and industry partnerships are strategically used to ensure a sustainable feed of qualifying candidates for the programme and helping not only to assist in the building of a diverse, local wine community, but also an international one. The first two candidates, Lethabo Komana and Xolani Mancotywa, are now settled and comfortable with the intensity of the self-study material and the discipline required to pass the examinations.
Says Vice-Chairman of the ICWM, Jacques Steyn, “We are proud and privileged to be working with the Gerard Basset Foundation – the world’s leading charitable foundation dedicated to using the wine, spirits and hospitality industries as a vehicle for change – to help the Institute to build momentum in our Vision 2030 quest”.
The formation of the Institute of Cape Wine Masters (ICWM) dates back to the start of the Cape Wine Academy. It was launched on 1 May 1979 as part of the Stellenbosch Farmers' Winery (SFW) wine plan. In 2003, the Cape Wine and Spirit Education Trust granted the CWA the right to award the Cape Wine Master (CWM) qualification and confer the Cape Wine Master’s title, in collaboration with the Institute of Cape Wine Masters.
The first three CWMs to graduate in 1983 were Bennie Howard, the late Duimpie Bayly and the late Tony Mossop, who were also the founding members of the ICWM in 1983.
With the addition of the latest four CWMs, the number to attain this elite self-study qualification in the 46-year history of the CWA has now reached 120, including the three honorary members. Of the total current active membership of the Institute, Western Cape members comprise 78%, Gauteng 19%, KwaZulu-Natal 2%, and Free State 1%, with 15 CWM’s living overseas. The profile of the total membership (since inception, including deceased and resigned members) is 51% male and 49% female.
The exco members that were elected at the AGM of the Institute of Cape Wine Masters in May this year are – Mark Philp as chairperson, Jacques Steyn as vice-chairperson, Lizette Tolken as educom representative, René Groenewald as marketing co-ordinator, and Tom Blok as treasurer.
Group photo of Cape Wine Masters: Front, L to R: Bennie Howard, Jacques Lombard, Cathy Brewer, Mark Philp, Jacques Steyn, Junel van der Merwe, Helena Melis, and Janine van Zyl.
Middle, L to R: Ivan Oertle, Mary-Lyn Raath, Leigh Berrie, Greg de Bruyn, Lisha de Villiers, Margie Barker, René Groenewald, Lizette Tolken, Karen Bloom, and Marius Malan.
Back, L to R: Riaan van der Spuy, Danielle le Roux, Gavin Whittaker, Mary-Lou Nash, Conrad Louw, Wanda Cronjé, Rolene Bauer, Brendan Butler, Janno Briers-Louw, Clive Torr, and Bradley Wood.
Profiles and summaries of dissertations
Jacques Lombard
Profile
Jacques Lombard has made history as the first blind candidate to participate in the Cape Wine Masters programme. Having lost his vision in 1996 at the age of 26, Jacques’s introduction to wine came through an invitation from Hermann Kirschbaum, then winemaker at Buitenverwachting, to join Wine Insight, a “blind” wine tasting group for visually impaired wine enthusiasts. This unique environment, free from influence by labels, brands, or appearance, honed his reliance on aroma, flavour, and texture; skills that proved invaluable in his wine career.
In 2016, Jacques founded Winebrands Pty, a Cape Town-based wine retail business supported by a dedicated team. A customer’s remark about only purchasing award-winning wines sparked Jacques’s curiosity about South Africa’s award system. His research revealed that most judges on leading panels were Cape Wine Masters or Masters of Wine, a discovery that inspired him to enrol with the Cape Wine Academy.
Progressing through the Certificate and Diploma courses with distinction, Jacques earned an invitation to join the demanding five-year Cape Wine Masters programme. Throughout his studies, he received guidance from no fewer than 84 industry leaders, whose mentorship and generosity he credits as instrumental to his success. His journey has allowed him to taste widely, locally and internationally, and to serve on numerous tasting panels, building enduring friendships with award-winning winemakers, buyers, and fellow connoisseurs.
Beyond wine, Jacques maintains an active lifestyle, training weekly on a tandem bicycle and participating annually in the Cape Town Cycle Tour. He lives in Welgemoed, Cape Town, with his wife, Petro, and their son, Daniel. For Jacques, the Cape Wine Master title is the culmination of a journey defined by resilience, passion, and the unwavering belief that wine is best judged by the pleasure it brings in the glass.
Jacques Lombard's dissertation: "Biogenic Amines in Wine"
The dissertation investigates the complex role of biogenic amines in wine; nitrogen-containing compounds produced and broken down in the human body through normal metabolic processes. While essential for regulating functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, brain activity, digestion, and immune response, these compounds can present significant health risks when consumed in excessive amounts from certain foods and beverages, particularly red wine.
The research provides an extensive literature review of factors influencing biogenic amine formation in wine, including microorganisms, terroir, grape cultivar, and viticultural and cellar practices. Central to their formation is the activity of lactic acid bacteria, naturally present in the winemaking environment. Jacques examined how these compounds develop across the wine production process, from vineyard to bottle, and how their presence can be managed.
The dissertation also addresses a common misconception: that sulphur dioxide is the primary cause of headaches or discomfort after wine consumption. Instead, multiple studies indicate that excessive biogenic amines, rather than sulphites, are the more likely culprit, responsible for symptoms such as headaches, flushing, skin rashes, nausea, and elevated blood pressure.
An exploratory consumer survey within the study revealed limited public awareness of biogenic amines and their potential effects, underscoring the importance of education in this area. Jacques further outlined strategies for winemakers to prevent, limit, or remove biogenic amines, thereby improving both wine quality and consumer experience.
Tolerance levels vary between individuals, with women generally having a lower capacity to metabolise elevated amine levels than men. While the human body can process normal amounts of biogenic amines from food and drink, excessive levels overwhelm this ability, resulting in discomfort. Jacques’s research not only clarifies the science behind wine-related intolerance but also offers practical tools for producers to address the issue.
Bradley Ryan Wood
Profile
Bradley Ryan Wood is a Johannesburg-based specialist urologist with a dedicated focus on men’s health at his private practice. He offers a supportive environment for patients seeking tailored solutions, and his commitment to continued learning ensures he stays up to date with the latest medical advancements.
After completing his medical studies at the University of the Witwatersrand in 2010, where he obtained his MSc, MBBCH, MMed (Urology), and FCS (Urology) qualifications, Bradley enrolled in his first introductory course with the Cape Wine Academy. He went on to complete both the Certificate and Diploma programmes before embarking on the prestigious Cape Wine Masters journey.
Throughout his studies, he remained particularly drawn to the wines of the Rhône Valley and Burgundy, regions renowned for their Syrah, Grenache, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. His love for Syrah and appreciation for the Cape winelands, inspired the topic of his research dissertation: The Cape South Coast Region – Is this South Africa’s Most Favourable Terroir for Quality Syrah? Bradley also recently completed the Michael Fridjhon Wine Judging Academy course with distinction.
A man of varied pursuits, Bradley is an accomplished endurance runner, having completed 37 marathons and 32 ultra-marathons worldwide. Among these are seven Comrades Marathons. His running adventures have taken him to diverse international destinations, adding a global dimension to his sporting portfolio and complementing his love of travel and wine.
Balancing a demanding medical practice with wine education and endurance sport required focus, time management, and passion. Whether advising patients in his practice, analysing a fine Burgundy, or training for his next marathon, Bradley brings the same meticulous attention to detail and enthusiasm to each pursuit.
Bradley Ryan Wood's dissertation: "The Cape South Coast Region – Is this South Africa’s Most Favourable Terroir for Quality Syrah?"
The dissertation offers an in-depth exploration of Syrah within South Africa’s Cape South Coast (CSC) wine region. The study combined an extensive literature review with data gathered via an online questionnaire completed by Syrah producers based in the CSC or sourcing grapes from the area. Responses were analysed across three focus areas: terroir, viticulture, and viniculture; and within the key districts of Elgin, Walker Bay, Cape Agulhas, and Overberg.
Globally, Syrah and Shiraz are recognised in two broad stylistic categories: the bold, fruit-driven New World style typified by Australian Shiraz, and the more restrained, elegant Old World style often associated with France’s Rhône Valley. Producers in the Cape South Coast consistently described their Syrah as leaning toward the latter, refined, structured, and displaying a distinct sense of place. Hallmarks of the region’s Syrah include salinity and minerality, characteristics linked to its cool maritime climate, proximity to the ocean, and ancient, diverse soils.
Performance data from wine competitions and industry reports revealed that, despite its relatively young reputation compared to more established regions such as Stellenbosch, the CSC has “punched above its weight” over the past decade. While Syrah plantings in the CSC cover just 331 hectares, around one-sixth of the largest Coastal district, the quality of its wines has been repeatedly recognised on national and international platforms.
Although the research does not definitively crown the CSC as South Africa’s single most favourable terroir for Syrah, it presents compelling evidence of the region’s strengths. The conclusion: the Cape South Coast offers highly favourable conditions for producing premium Syrah, with a distinctive style that reflects its unique coastal terroir and positions it as a significant contributor to South Africa’s fine wine landscape.
Riaan van der Spuy
Profile
Riaan van der Spuy began his formal training in viticulture at Elsenburg College of Agriculture, graduating in 1997. Following his studies, he pursued international winemaking opportunities across Bordeaux (France), Napa and Sonoma (USA), and regions in South America, experiences that broadened his knowledge of both old- and new-world winemaking techniques.
Since November 2016, Riaan has fulfilled the role of cellar master at Swartland Winery, where he oversees critical aspects of production, quality control, and cellar operations at one of the region’s prominent wine producers. His global experience informs his approach to crafting wines that express Swartland’s varied terroirs, known for its Mediterranean climate, diverse soils, and rugged landscapes.
Riaan also plays a role in the wider South African wine industry, having served as a judge at the Michelangelo International Wine and Spirits Awards, where his expertise contributes to evaluating and recognising excellence in local wine production. On 10 September, he will be presenting part of his research on "High-altitude viticulture in South Africa” at CapeWine 2025 at the CTICC, reflecting his interest in the technical challenges of vine growing in elevated terrains.
With a career marked by hands-on winemaking, international exposure, and peer-recognised expertise, Riaan’s attainment of the Cape Wine Master qualification underscores his commitment to excellence, terroir-driven wines, and ongoing professional growth.
Riaan van der Spuy's dissertation: "High-Altitude Viticulture in South Africa"
The dissertation provides a detailed review of high-altitude viticulture, with particular focus on its relevance and potential for South Africa. The research has two main objectives: firstly, to define and examine high-altitude viticulture as an international concept, outlining its benefits and challenges; and secondly, to explore how South Africa could develop this niche sector, including the potential formation of a dedicated industry association.
The paper begins by explaining how high-altitude winegrowing has been formally recognised by CERVIM for its unique climatic and geographic characteristics. Drawing on both literature and insights from experienced winegrowers, Riaan analyses the climatic influences of elevation, such as lower temperatures, greater diurnal temperature variation, and increased solar radiation; on vine physiology and grape quality. These factors can enhance aromatic intensity, acidity retention, and phenolic development, but they also present notable challenges, including frost risk, shorter growing seasons, and logistical difficulties in vineyard management.
The dissertation further explores how higher elevations influence the chemical and physical properties of grapes, potentially leading to wines with distinctive structure, freshness, and ageing potential. It reviews examples of successful high-altitude wine regions internationally before turning to the South African context.
In South Africa, existing high-altitude vineyards are identified and assessed for their potential to produce premium wines. Riaan proposes the establishment of a national high-altitude viticulture association to unite producers, promote collective research, and implement a targeted marketing strategy. Such an initiative could highlight quality-driven data and emphasise the uniqueness of South Africa’s elevated vineyards to international markets.
The paper concludes that, while high-altitude viticulture in South Africa presents agronomic and logistical challenges, the benefits; ranging from premium market positioning to tourism and job creation, could significantly contribute to growth and innovation within the country’s wine industry.
Janine van Zyl
Profile
Since 2010, Janine van Zyl has worked across hospitality, wine, and spirits, building a career that combines fine dining expertise, wine education, and brand development. A graduate of the Prue Leith Culinary Institute and a trained sommelier, she honed her skills in some of South Africa’s most respected kitchens, including the Mount Nelson, The Twelve Apostles, and Overture. Her background in gastronomy developed into a passion for wine, particularly food and wine pairing, education, and consumer engagement.
Janine is the International Account Manager at FirstPour, a leading global social media agency for wine and spirits. She also serves as South African Brand Manager for the International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) and as Sales and Advertising Manager for Club Oenologique, working with premium wine and spirits producers worldwide. She has judged for several high-profile competitions, including the IWSC, Michelangelo Wine and Spirits Awards, Veritas Awards, and the Fine Wine Awards sponsored by American Express.
Before entering the wine industry full-time, Janine founded Cold Gold Artisan Ice Cream and Sorbet, an award-winning business recognised for innovation and sustainability. Among her accolades are Huletts Young Pastry Chef of the Year (2014), Young Entrepreneur Champion of South Africa (2015), and Most Innovative Business by Fast Company South Africa (2015/2016).
Her wine industry achievements include being named one of South Africa’s “30 Under 30 Movers and Shakers in Wine” (2022), winning the Prue Leith Alumni Award (2023), and representing South Africa as part of the winning sommelier team at the annual Ubuntu Challenge. Through her social media platform @diekeldermeisie, she shares approachable, educational wine content, fostering connections between producers and consumers. Her work continues to focus on authenticity, technical expertise, and clear communication, making her a respected voice in the international wine and spirits sector.
Janine van Zyl's dissertation: "Marketing Wine in a Digital World"
The dissertation examines how the South African wine industry can better leverage digital marketing as a core business strategy. Recognising that the sector has been comparatively slow to adapt to the opportunities presented by digital platforms, the study explores how wineries can use social media, influencer partnerships, and digital advertising to increase brand awareness, strengthen consumer engagement, and drive sales.
Janine's research begins with a literature review of digital marketing’s evolution within the global wine industry, differentiating between digital marketing, social media marketing, and influencer marketing, and analysing how these disciplines intersect to create a cohesive strategy. Comparative case studies from international markets highlight lessons applicable to South African producers.
A six-month field study with Duke Wines and La Cave Wines tested targeted social media campaigns, evaluating the effectiveness of content creation, paid promotions, and influencer collaborations. Insights from FirstPour, a global wine-focused digital marketing agency, further illustrate international best practice.
Consumer perceptions were assessed through survey data, revealing that audiences respond most positively to storytelling, educational content, and authentic influencer partnerships aligned with brand values. The research also anticipates emerging trends, including AI-driven marketing, hyper-personalisation, and the integration of sustainability messaging into brand narratives.
The findings emphasise that a robust online presence, supported by data-driven decision-making and genuine brand storytelling, is now essential for competitiveness. Wineries that invest strategically in digital marketing can achieve greater market visibility, consumer loyalty, and profitability.
Serving as both an academic exploration and a practical guide, the dissertation offers actionable recommendations for South African wineries to navigate the digital landscape effectively, positioning themselves for success in an increasingly connected and competitive marketplace.
Photo captions:
Photo 1: Mark Philp CWM (chair of ICWM) with the four new Cape Wine Masters – Bradley Wood, Jacques Lombard, Riaan van der Spuy, and Janine van Zyl – and Emile Langenhoven (GM of Lanzerac Hotel) and Beyers Truter (chair of the Pinotage Association)
Photo 2: Riaan van der Spuy (centre) receives his Cape Wine Masters certificate from Mark Philp CWM (chair of ICWM) and Lizette Tolken CWM (chair: education committee of the ICWM)
Photo 3: Janine van Zyl (centre) receives her Cape Wine Masters certificate from Mark Philp CWM (chair of ICWM) and Lizette Tolken CWM (chair: education committee of the ICWM)
Photo 4: Bradley Wood (centre) receives his Cape Wine Masters certificate from Mark Philp CWM (chair of ICWM) and Lizette Tolken CWM (chair: education Committee of the ICWM)
Photo 5: Jacques Lombard (left) receives his Cape Wine Masters certificate from Mark Philp CWM (chair of ICWM) and Lizette Tolken CWM (chair: education Committee of the ICWM)
Photo 6: Bennie Howard CWM, Beyers Truter (Pinotage Association chair) and Abrie Beeslaar (Pinotage Association) with the priceless bottle of the original Lanzerac Pinotage 1959, the world’s first bottled Pinotage.
Photo 7: Rico Basson (CEO of South Africa Wine), Ingerése Schoeman (Wineland) and Wynand Lategan (Lanzerac cellarmaster). Rico Basson is a previous recipient of the ICWM Wine Personality of the Year Award.
Photo 8: Janno Briers-Louw CWM & Jacques Steyn CWM (vice chair of ICWM)
Photo 9: Winnie Bowman CWM, recipient of the Dave Hughes Trophy, could unfortunately not attend the gala dinner of the ICWM to receive the Trophy. - Photo supplied
Photo 10: Ken Forrester named the 2025 Wine Personality of the Year – pictured L to R Mark Phip (ICWM chair), Ken Forrester and Bennie Howard, who was one of the first three CWM’s to qualify in 1983. - Photo supplied
Photo 11: Mr Pinotage, Beyers Truter (Pinotage Association chair) and Mr Chenin, Ken Forrester (2025 Wine Personality of the Year) - Beyers is also a previous recipient of the ICWM Wine Personality of the Year Award. - Photo supplied
Photos: All photos taken by Matt Stow unless specified otherwise