30 under 30
Meet the class of 2026.
Below is a look back at the 2026 WineLand 30 Under 30 luncheon held at Bacco Estate. Thirty young professionals from all parts of the wine industry were recognised for their achievements so far and their future potential. This initiative shines a light on those who are leading innovation, showing leadership, and making a positive impact throughout South Africa’s wine value chain.
Class of 2026

Bradwin Lester
Agronomist / viticulture researcher · Terrain African Agri Investment

Dayton Charles
Assistant winemaker · AA Badenhorst Family Wines

Elani Nell
Bemarking / brand storytelling · Blaauwklippen

Esterina Fourie
Assistent-wynmaker · Strandveld Vineyards

George Mandefu
Sommelier / wine ambassador

Helene Joubert
Bemarking en verkope · Skilpadvlei

Hugo Pietersen
Tegniese konsultant · Wine Chemical Solutions

Jean Botha
Tasting room and brand manager · Remhoogte Wine Estate

Jennifer Keenan
Sommelier · Vuur, Stellenbosch

Johannah Moloantoa
Assistant winemaker · Nederburg

Julia du Preez
Digitale bemarkingskoordineerder · Quoin Rock

Lanel Smith
Gasvryheidsbestuurder · Ernie Els Wines

Leandri Bosman
Flying winemaker / harvest assistant · Freelance (next: Bassermann-Jordan, Pfalz)

Louwrens Laing
Bottling plant manager · Winkelshoek Bottelering

Lucilia Ramos
Assistent-wynmaker · Oldenburg Vineyards

Luhan Steyn
Assistent-wynmaker · Neethlingshof

Matthew Grant
Viticulturist / winemaker · Ataraxia Wines

Mila Malherbe
Junior handelsmerkbestuurder · Blaauwklippen Vineyards

Mosima Mabelebele
Assistant winemaker · Le Grand Domaine

Moteku Mawela
Assistant winemaker · The Drift Farm / Bruce Jack Wines

Nicole Pelzer
Vineyard manager and viticulturist · Simonsig Family Vineyards

Rein Ernst
Operations manager · Under the Influence

Rudi Smith
Wine analyst and tourist guide · Wine Analytical Services (WasLab) / Straight to the Vine Tours

Sarah Coppings
Creative group head · Epic Lion

Shannon Jacobs
Assistant winemaker · Groot Constantia

Simon Terblanche
Plaasbestuurder · Stark-Conde Wines

Stephanie Joubert
Account manager · Great Domaines

Terry-Ann Klink
Assistant winemaker · Longridge Wines

Tristan Maske
Wine curator, storyteller and community builder · The Wine Intern / Lekker Doos / The Platform South Africa / Ex Animo Wine Co.

Wesley Soule
Founder · SoilScopes
