A sommelier on cloud wine

MOTHWA: ONLY SAFFER AT BORDEAUX MENTOR WEEK

- Hein Kaiser

Lethabo Mothwa never thought she'd find herself among the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux, France, representing South Africa on one of the world's most prestigious wine stages. Yet, last month that's exactly where she was.

The only South African selected from over 230 applicants worldwide, Mothwa's attendance at Bordeaux Mentor Week was a dream come true for the passionate sommelier from the Keystone Restaurant at Marriott Hotel, Melrose Arch.

"I was overwhelmed with joy when I got the news," she said.

"It felt surreal to know I'd be travelling to Bordeaux, the birthplace of old-world wine."

From vineyard tours to blending sessions, Mothwa was immersed in experiences she had only read about.

"It was an honour to learn from the experts themselves, touching and tasting what I'd only encountered in textbooks."

The week in Bordeaux was packed with firsts for Mothwa, including her first barrel tasting.

"Everything was exciting. The Château tours, learning about the harvest, meeting mentors, and just being in Bordeaux," she said.