The six quarter-finalists of the 2026 Best Young Sommelier of South Africa contest: Benjamin Fast, Ayanda Magele, Siyathemba Msalela, Aljoe "Joe" Beziek, Gregory Lorimer, and Freda-Marizen Jacobs. Photos: Kace In Point Studios
The South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) is proud to announce Aljoe "Joe" Mario Beziek as the overall winner of the Best Young Sommelier of South Africa (BYSSA) 2026 competition. The finals took place on Wednesday, 1 July 2026 at the prestigious Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, showcasing the exceptional talent and bright future of the country's hospitality industry.
Beziek, a sommelier at Ellerman House who holds a B.Agric in Oenology and Viticulture along with SASA Junior Sommelier and ASI 1 certifications, claimed the title after a rigorous day of intense practical and theoretical examinations.
The competition began with six top-tier quarter-finalists from across the country:
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Aljoe "Joe" Mario Beziek – Sommelier at Ellerman House (Cape Town)
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Ayanda Magele – Hotel sommelier at Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa (Johannesburg)
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Benjamin Harry Fast – Wine steward and bartender at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff (Johannesburg)
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Freda-Marizen Jacobs – Senior sommelier at Oldenburg Vineyards (Stellenbosch)
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Gregory Lorimer – Head sommelier at Oldenburg Vineyards (Stellenbosch)
- Siyathemba Msalela – Junior sommelier at Dusk Restaurant (Stellenbosch)
Following a demanding preliminary round, the panel narrowed the field down to three semi-finalists: Aljoe, Ayanda, and Benjamin. The final round tested the competitors under immense pressure, requiring them to demonstrate flawless table service, precise blind tastings, and sharp business acumen in real-time scenarios. Aljoe’s precision, depth of knowledge, and refined service skills ultimately secured him the top spot.
The three semi-finalists of the 2026 Best Young Sommelier of South Africa: Aljoe Beziek, Ayanda Magele, and Benjamin Fast.
The judging panel noted that this year's competition was one of the closest to date, reflecting a significant rise in the standard of professional wine service in South Africa.
"Judging BYSSA 2026 was both an honor and an incredible challenge," said judge Mxolisi. "The sheer caliber of talent on display made our final deliberations incredibly tough and proves that the future of South African hospitality is in phenomenal hands. To quote Sir Winston Churchill: 'My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best.'"
SASA chair Laurie Cooper echoed the sentiment, noting the broader impact on the trade. "The calibre of talent, service and knowledge demonstrated by our younger generation of sommeliers is immensely promising for the future of both the profession and South Africa’s hospitality industry."
The event highlighted the critical role that mentorship and structured education play in elevating local wine professionals to an international standard.
"It was a privilege to witness the passion and talent of the next generation of sommeliers," added judge Elton, while judge Gray expressed immense gratitude to be part of the BYSSA team, calling the entire experience a pleasure.
Reflecting on the execution of the tasks, moderator Lloyd Jusa noted: "Moderating this year’s competition revealed a fearless new generation of talent who aren't just mastering tradition, but actively redefining the future of hospitality."
Judge Tawanda agreed, adding: "The competence level of all candidates was impressive and encouraging for the future of sommellerie in South Africa. "SASA extends its thanks to Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa for hosting the event, the judges for their expertise, and all the competitors who dedicated months of preparation to the competition."
Aljoe Beziek in action!
A huge thank you to all of our sponsors:
- Winterhalter, Moët & Chandon, Vinimark, SA Brandy Foundation
- Glassware by Riedel
- Water by S.Pellegrino
We are equally grateful to the following partners and producers for their ongoing support and exceptional prize contributions. Many of these prizes provide invaluable educational opportunities and industry experiences, helping our winners continue their development long after the competition has ended:
Great Domaines, Reciprocal Wine Company, Riedel, S.Pellegrino, Cape Winemakers Guild, wine.co.za, Coravin, Stellenbosch Wine Routes, Swartland Wine & Olive Route, Jordan, Creation, Babylonstoren, Dalla Cia, Hemel en Aarde Wines, Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, Hamilton Russell, Vondeling, Paul Clüver Family Wines, and Graham Beck.
Team BYSSA 2026: All the quarter-finalists, judges and organiser's of this year's competition.