It takes time for countries to build up their pool of experienced competition sommeliers. In a gesture of international solidarity, the Ubuntu Sommelier Trophy has been established as a derby between South African Sommeliers (SASA) and Sommeliers of Zimbabwe (SAZ). It is a great opportunity for sommeliers from both nations to get some real competition game time and practice ahead of the prestigious SASA Best Sommelier, to be held during the winter months of 2021.
SASA has called upon Jo Wessels to be the coach of the three chosen SASA representatives. Jo, who holds the title of the Best Sommelier in South Africa and who is to represent SASA at the ASI Best Sommelier in Europe & Africa contest in March 2021, will be hosting a digital training camp from his solitary confinement in Germany during the last three weeks leading up to the contest.
For the SAZ, which is hosting its first Best Sommelier of Zimbabwe contest on this occasion, the event represents a priceless practical opportunity to prepare for ASI international contests. It will also help select who will represent Zimbabwe at the Best Sommelier of Europe and Africa contest. The SAZ is slated to assume ASI observer status in the near future.