We caught up with Thembani Wesley Mpande, assistant sommelier at Marble Restaurant in Johannesburg, after being named the Champagne Telmont Best Young Sommelier of South Africa for 2022. We discussed life, wine and what it means to win such a celebrated title.

What made you want to become a sommelier?

It just happened. When I was a runner at Saint, I was given this opportunity and I took it. I never thought three years later I’d be the Best Young Sommelier in the country.

What does winning this award mean to you?

It’s a huge accomplishment for me. I’ve been working so hard and I’m glad it finally paid off. My goal is to be the best in the world maybe five times before I retire as a sommelier. Right now, winning it gives me lots of motivation. I’m working extra hard, and I believe there are more accomplishments to follow.

What advice would you give to your younger self, knowing what you know now?

To be more disciplined and more dedicated than my current self. I need to bring that energy back to the wine scene!

What are the challenges you face as a young sommelier?

Exposure to international wines. South African wines are very good, but as a sommelier it’s hard to learn more about international wines because they hardly sell and sometimes they are difficult to source (even for studying purposes). If I’m lucky enough to get a hold of international wines, they’ll probably cost a fortune!

What is the most satisfying part of your job?

Meeting new people every day and being able to educate them about wines. I’m a storyteller and I enjoy sharing my knowledge with other people. But the most enjoyable part is drinking while working – the perks of being a sommelier!

What’s your favourite pairing at Marble Restaurant?

The Migo’s Jersey Sirloin on the bone (42-day dry aged) with a glass of Boekenhoutskloof cabernet sauvignon 2016 (Stellenbosch).

If you had to pick one wine to drink for the rest of your life, which would it be and why?

I have enjoyed many outstanding wines, so it feels like I’m betraying the other wines if I must choose just one! But I’m a burgundy person and there’s only one that stood out for me this year (it’s a pity I only had the one bottle) – the Bouchard Pére & Fils Vigue De L’enfant Jésus 2016. I’d drink it every day for the rest of my life!