What started as a simple holiday job in grade 11 unfolded into a passion that would shape his future.
Working in the freezer, packing jams and harvesting berries under the open sky at Hillcrest Berry Orchards, Sisipho Zothana (23) found himself captivated by the process of creation. He was particularly intrigued by the use of Hanepoot in some of the jams.
His curiosity grew as he travelled to the Banhoek Valley over the Helshoogte Pass on a daily basis, passing vineyards that stretched as far as the eye could see. He found himself reflecting on how these lush vineyards were transformed into complex wines.
He decided to put his curiosity to rest and enrolled for the Pinotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA) last year. Through this programme, he was able to gain practical experience as a tasting room assistant at various wineries while also completing his WSET Level 2.
During his initial job shadowing assignment at Vergenoegd Löw, Sisipho got to know tasting room assistant Nolubabalo Mokoena, who he says was the driving force behind his current success.
Sisipho was part of a class of 50 students with whom he formed a strong bond. “We stuck together as we navigated obstacles and I developed a close friendship with fellow student Busiswa Bangiso, who provided invaluable assistance during times of need.”
Last year, Sisipho secured a three-week placement at The Wine Arc through the PYDA. Thanks to his outstanding performance in the final week, he was offered a six-month contract with the company that runs a wine bar specialising in black-owned brands.
“Since joining The Wine Arc team, Sisipho has proved himself to be an invaluable asset to our establishment,” manager Arno Ruiters says. “His unwavering dedication, inquiring mind and fantastic attitude have left an indelible mark on both our team and our clientele.” Sisipho firmly believes in The Wine Arc story and is motivated to delve deeper into the world of black-owned wine brands. He’d eventually like to become a brand ambassador. “I want to shift the perception of wine in the black community and enhance people’s understanding of the industry through education,” he says.
Sisipho is excited about the wine industry’s potential to take him around the globe so he can explore and savour wines from every corner. He’d especially like to one day wander through the famous vineyards of the Champagne region in France.
Rapid fire Q&A
- Favourite wine ever tasted? Carmen Stevens Wines Merlot 2020.
- Favourite bingeworthy TV show? Suits.
- Favourite pick-me-up song? Imicabango by Didablk Feat L Deekay.
- Least-known fact about you? I’m very talkative.
- Ideal holiday destination? Barcelona.
Connect with Sisipho via LinkedIn.