It is always such a nail-biting affair to watch the finalists being put through their paces, and this year was no exception at the 2021 Best Sommelier of South Africa finals. There is the audience, the time limit and the unknown which one has to contend with, and my congratulations go to all the contestants, with of course very special mention to Wikus Human, the ultimate winner, who managed to complete all 3 tasks put before him within time and correctly. Jean Vincent Ridon charmed the judges and audience as usual (it was streamed live through Wineland Media) but his wonderful chatty performance meant he did not manage to finish his tasks in time. Laurie was cool as a cucumber, having recently returned from the UK where she wrote her Master of Wine exams - now that is a test! But sadly was not quite up to Wikus' standard and came 3rd. Good luck for the MW, Laurie! Let's hope that next year will allow a bigger live audience as it really is a watchable event! Congrats Wikus, who is a Court of Masters Certified Sommelier, the Head Sommelier at Marble and Saint Restaurants in Johannesburg, and winner of the Moët & Chandon Best Young Sommelier in 2017 This year the competition was supported by plenty of sponsors, including Stellenbosch Wine Routes. Read more HERE