Mauritius Clinches Second Ubuntu Sommeliers Trophy
Stellenbosch Wine Routes Hails Mauritius for 2nd Ubuntu Sommeliers Trophy Win
The Stellenbosch Wine Routes has congratulated Mauritius on securing a second consecutive victory at the prestigious Ubuntu Sommeliers Trophy, Africa’s largest international sommelier competition. The 2025 champions were crowned after an intense four-way showdown hosted at the Lanzerac Estate Hotel in Stellenbosch on Monday, December 8.
Now firmly established as a leading platform for recognising emerging talent and advancing professional wine service, the Ubuntu Sommeliers Trophy continues to play a vital role in elevating wine education across the continent. This year’s winning team from Mauritius once again demonstrated the curiosity, discipline and passion that define excellence in the global wine industry—values closely aligned with the Stellenbosch Wine Routes’ commitment to nurturing future wine leaders and strengthening South Africa’s standing on the world stage.
The growing demand and reputation of the competition were evident in 2025. Originally founded by South Africa and Zimbabwe, the contest expanded to include Mauritius in 2024, followed this year by newcomers Kenya. Mauritius, having claimed the title last year, successfully defended its crown against formidable competition.
“Congratulations to Team Mauritius, the Sommeliers Academy that once again delivered a world-class event, and the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA). Sommeliers play an essential role in shaping how the world experiences our wines. Their knowledge, passion and ability to connect people with the stories behind every bottle make them invaluable ambassadors for the industry. Investing in their growth is investing in the future of our wine heritage.”
says Elmarie Rabe, manager of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes
Mauritius was represented by Jaisen Pandoo, Assistant Head Sommelier at Constance Prince Maurice and newly crowned Best Sommelier of Mauritius 2025, alongside Shani Ramasawmy, Sommelier and Wine Events Coordinator for Constance and Best Sommelier 2022. Their performance underscored the island nation’s growing influence and professionalism within the international wine community.
This year’s competition further strengthened its global stature through the involvement of leading international judges. The panel included Giuseppe Vaccarini, former Best Sommelier in the World and director of the International Association of Sommeliers (ASI), as well as ASI vice president Michèle Chantôme, alongside respected local experts.
In the lead-up to the finals, competitors were nominated by their respective national organisations, with selected participants travelling to South Africa to vie for a place in the final round. Finalists were challenged on stage in front of a live audience, completing a series of surprise tasks covering service, wine pairing, sales, identification, theory and guest interaction. Their expertise was further tested with questions on beer, brandy and other associated beverages.
The Ubuntu Sommeliers Trophy is co-sponsored by the Stellenbosch Wine Routes, the Beer Association of South Africa and the South African Brandy Foundation, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence across the beverage industry.
For more information about the Stellenbosch Wine Routes, email info@wineroute.co.za or call 021 886 4310. Discover more about Stellenbosch’s renowned food, wine, history and culture at www.wineroute.co.za or www.visitstellenbosch.org, and connect with @stellwineroute on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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