South African Sommeliers Association Launches Gauteng Chapter with Best Sommelier of South Africa, Armand Ridgard
- SASA Marketing
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Johannesburg, South Africa – Monday, 17 November 2025
The South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) is thrilled to announce the official launch of its Gauteng Chapter, taking place on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, at winelab.Africa in The Zone, Rosebank, followed by a light lunch and wine tasting at Proud Mary.
This marks a significant milestone for SASA as the association expands its footprint beyond the Western Cape, creating a central hub for Gauteng-based sommeliers and beverage professionals. The new chapter will provide a platform for community, mentorship, and continuous professional growth — strengthening the voice of sommeliers across South Africa.
The launch, hosted in partnership with Vinimark, will be headlined by Armand Ridgard, the 2025 Best Sommelier of South Africa, who will share his story in an inspiring talk titled “Journey to Best Sommelier of SA.” Armand will also lead guests through a blind tasting of select South African wines, with Angela Jordaan, bringing an educational and interactive flair to the afternoon.
"You must maintain your absolute central authenticity - you've gotta be who you are - but you also need to have an immense amount of knowledge and technical expertise" - Armand Ridgard, on being a sommelier
During the event, SASA will also announce the upcoming Wine Talk 2026 Forums, the Gauteng conference designed to foster conversation, learning, and collaboration across the industry.
“The Gauteng Chapter represents a huge step in building a stronger, more connected national community,” says Erica Taylor, Vice Chair of SASA. “There’s incredible talent and energy in Johannesburg and Pretoria — and this chapter gives local sommeliers a space to learn, share, and grow together.”
Media Enquiries:
Erica Taylor
Vice Chair, South African Sommeliers Association
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