A great reason to raise a glass! Joe Beziek has been named South Africa’s Best Young Sommelier for 2026.
Johannesburg, South Africa (08 July 2026) – Years of studying, tasting, learning and being mentored have paid off for Joe Beziek, who has just been crowned the Best Young Sommelier of South Africa 2026.
The title was awarded after the national finals of the Best Young Sommelier of South Africa (BYSSA) competition, hosted by the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) at the Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg.
It is South Africa’s biggest competition for up-and-coming sommeliers, open to wine professionals under the age of 35 and designed to find the country’s best young talent in the industry.
Throughout the competition, contestants are put through practical and theoretical challenges that mirror real life as a sommelier in hospitality. Challenges include blind tastings and food pairing to serving guests correctly, presenting wines, decanting and making quick decisions under pressure. Competitors need to prove they know their craft from every angle!
This year’s final saw Joe competing alongside finalists Benjamin Fast and Ayanda Magele, with all three earning their place among South Africa’s top young sommeliers.
By the end of the day, it was Joe who impressed the judges enough to take the title.
A sommelier at Ellerman House, Joe has spent years building his knowledge of wine, earning qualifications in oenology and viticulture as well as industry certifications.
“This title means far more than a competition result. It represents years of learning, countless hours of study, the generosity of mentors, colleagues and friends, and the privilege of working in an industry that never stops inspiring me,” shares Beziek.
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“This year’s competition reminded me that the standard of South African sommellerie continues to rise. The level of talent, professionalism and camaraderie on display gives me great confidence in the future of our industry.”
Joe hopes his journey encourages others entering the profession, too.
“I hope this competition inspires even more young sommeliers to keep learning, stay curious and pursue excellence.”
While he now holds one of the country’s biggest titles for young wine professionals, he sees it as the start of something bigger!
“For me, this is not the finish line – it is another beginning. I look forward to continuing my journey, representing South Africa with pride, and contributing to the growth of our incredible wine and hospitality industry.”
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