SA’s best young sommelier
George Young, resident sommelier at Vergenoegd Löw in Stellenbosch, has been honoured as the Best Young Sommelier of South Africa 2024, by the expert panel of the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA).
Calm, composed, and a consummate professional, George, who hails from Hoedspruit in Limpopo, demonstrates a quiet commitment and deep passion for sharing the joys of wine.
His qualifications include WSET Level 3 and a diploma from the Cape Wine Academy. His next aim is to achieve the highly regarded Cape Wine Master qualification.
George considers Spencer Fondaumiere, chairman of SASA, and accomplished sommelier Le Roi van de Vyver as his mentors.
He views this accolade as the pinnacle of his career so far and credits those who invested their time and expertise in him, teaching him the nuances of the trade.
“I truly enjoy the sense of brother- and sisterhood we share as sommeliers in the Cape wine industry. We all learn from each other - such a privilege.
“I’m deeply thankful to every single person who has helped and inspired me along the way, and grateful for the opportunities that honed my skillset. That’s what got me to this point,” he says.
For George, the magic of his work lies in forging connections with visitors. From sharing a table with a couple for an entire day to witnessing their delight in discovering new wines, these moments are at the heart of his favourite work experiences.
His true gift, according to his colleagues, is his ability to create memorable experiences for guests. Vergenoegd Löw, recently revitalised to its former glory, is the perfect setting for him to showcase his talents.
Matching the ambitious goals of the farm, George is a valuable team member, contributing to both the operations of a working farm and its world-class luxury wine tourism destination.
At Vergenoegd Löw, George leads the Homestead Wine Lounge, located in the beautifully restored 1717 manor house.
He empowers and encourages his team to attain WSET certifications and specialist sommelier qualifications, helping to advance their careers in wine.
“I like paying it forward,” he explains. “I’ve experienced firsthand the power of mentorship, so it’s only natural for me to do the same. It brings me great joy.”
George singles out Vergenoegd Löw Amalie Merlot 2022 as one of his favourites made on the estate. He believes it’s a shining example of the potential of this underrated grape variety in South Africa.
This wine was recently won the VinLog Merlot Trophy at the prestigious 2024 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards. It’s made by young winemaker, Vusi Dalicuba. The 2022 vintage was his first on the farm.
As George continues to craft unforgettable experiences at Vergenoegd Löw, his passion for wine and dedication to excellence shine brightly, inviting visitors to savour every moment.
Visit Vergenoegd Löw to meet George and his talented colleagues, and to taste Vusi’s award-winning wines. The estate’s full range can be sampled across various carefully restored Cape Dutch heritage venues.
Wines are also served by the glass for those who prefer to sip and enjoy on their own. For a unique option, try the Indigenous Tasting that showcases wines in a whole new light.
Six wines from the range are presented with a selection of intriguing local flavours like bokkoms (salt-cured dried fish), biltong (spice-cured dried meat), amasi (fermented milk similar to buttermilk), herbs and spices. The selection is served with roosterkoek (griddle cake).
Visit vergenoegd.co.za for more information.