Like many great stories, George Mandefu’s (22) journey into the wine industry started with simple curiosity. “I was drawn to the idea that something so rooted in nature could carry such depth of story, culture and craftsmanship,” he says. “That’s when I realised wine was something I wanted to be part of.”

He was only 17 and in matric when he took his first step into hospitality, working as a sculler. This part-time job soon became the foundation of a much larger journey. The following year, he enrolled for a BSc in environmental science at the University of the Western Cape, but balancing a self-funded degree alongside work commitments proved challenging. He stepped away from his studies to take a gap year, a decision that changed his career. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but I knew I needed to prioritise gaining real-world experience,” he says.

He became a runner at ëlgr. in Kloof Street, Cape Town, where his trajectory in the wine industry began to take form. Under the mentorship of Le Roi van Vyver, he developed not only his technical understanding of wine but also his appreciation for the craft and culture behind wine. “Mentorship played a huge role in my journey,” he says. “It gave me direction and confidence.”

“I received a discounted scholarship to study with the European Bartending School (EBS), where I learned the art of mixology, focusing on understanding flavour profiles across a variety of beverages, particularly cocktails. This experience led to a promoted position as a barman at Kind Regards Bar in Observatory, before I transitioned into the world of wine. My experience includes working at some of South Africa’s most respected establishments, such as Ellerman House Hotel, where I served as a sommelier. I am currently a sommelier at Belthazar Restaurant and also serve as a wine ambassador for the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA).”

His work is defined by consistency and leadership. “For me, it’s about showing up consistently and being someone others can rely on,” he says. He’s also known for building strong relationships with clients, understanding that wine is as much about people as it is about product. “At the end of the day, wine is about connection and bringing people together through shared experiences.”

What continues to inspire him is the overlap between creativity and precision in the wine industry. “It’s one of the few spaces where art, science and tradition come together so naturally,” he says. “There’s always something new to learn, whether it’s a vintage, a region or a style, and that keeps me motivated to grow.”

He’s currently advancing his formal wine education and has worked toward his WSET Level 3 and Association de la Sommellerie Internationale 9ASI) Level 1. His studies have broadened his perspective and deepened his commitment to continuous growth. “Education has opened my eyes to how vast the industry really is and how much there still is to explore,” he says.

He’s also created a tasting club to bring together people at all stages of their wine journey. Through shared experiences, tastings and farm visits, he’s helping to build a community rooted in connection, knowledge and appreciation. “I wanted to create something that makes wine more accessible and less intimidating,” he says.

Like many entering the industry, he’s faced the challenge of finding his place in a highly competitive environment. Rather than being deterred, it has strengthened his resilience and sharpened his sense of purpose. “It pushes you to work harder, stay humble, and keep improving,” he says.

“We have such unique stories to tell as a country,” he says. “I want to be part of sharing them with the world and creating opportunities for others to enter the industry.”

Rapid fire Q&A

  • Red, white or bubbles? A Brunello di Montalcino. For white, Thamnus Chardonnay. And if money were no object, Krug Blanc de Blancs.
  • One thing that always makes you laugh? TV shows with great humour.
  • Who in the wine world inspires you the most? Cokies World of Wine.
  • Your hidden talent outside of wine? Cooking.
  • One word that describes the SA wine industry? Evolving.

Social media

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LinkedIn:George Mandefu