Scheduled for Friday, May 17 and Saturday, May 18 at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton, the Johannesburg Cap Classique Champagne & Bubbles Festival is set to feature a diverse array of wines. Among them will be several black-owned wine brands, aimed at promoting greater economic participation for black producers in South Africa’s wine industry.
One of the featured brands is Amari Wines, co-founded by Sazi Ngcobo, Siya Maphalala, Luyanda Maphalala, and Xolani Mancotywa in 2017. Their goal is to contribute to job creation and education within the country. Amari Wines began with their flagship bubbly, the Amari Lush, which will be showcased at the festival. Ngcobo envisions Amari as an international brand, with plans to expand into other African markets.
The journey of Amari Wines began as a bold idea during a conversation among friends, and it has since evolved into a thriving business. Despite launching during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Amari Lush has gained recognition, finding its place in South Africa’s top restaurants and retailers like Woolworths and Norman Goodfellows.
Derived from African-Yoruba origins, the name “Amari” signifies strength. Amari Lush, their flagship bubbly, is a demi-sec with a dosage of 33g/l, offering a balanced sweetness suitable for various occasions. It pairs well with dishes like fresh fish and spicy curries.
In addition to Amari Wines, the festival will host other renowned producers such as Anthonij Rupert Wyne (L’Ormarins), Bon Courage Estate, and Graham Beck, among others. The event promises to be a celebration of diversity within the wine industry, showcasing the best of South African Cap Classiques alongside French Champagnes and Italian Proseccos.
