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Grape Expectations: Wayve Kolevsohn
La ResidenceChoosing the perfect wine pairing for a meal or event requires skill, knowledge – and passion. Happily, the Royal Portfolio’s Group Beverage Manager, Wayve Kolevsohn, possesses all these traits in abundance. We were so determined to add Wayve’s skills to our already experienced food and beverage team that we created this new role especially for her. Her joy and excitement are truly infectious!
South Africa is known for its exceptional wines, and the innovative approach its winemakers take to coaxing the best from their soils and vines. Whereas some old world wines can appear a little stuffy, wine estates at the tip of Africa have never been afraid to experiment and be a little more radical.
This is something that Wayve revels in, and given that her brief extends across all our properties, she has plenty of scope to introduce our guests to wines they may never have tried before. She’s a true champion of South African wines, and her passion for the best that South Africa has to offer is very much in keeping with our approach.
A country in a glass
Wine is an important part of the perfect stay for many of our guests. It provides a way to experience South Africa in a tangible, memorable and deeply enjoyable way. At La Residence, you can even stroll through the vineyards which surround the property, and taste through the wines made from grapes grown within a stone’s throw of your guest suite.
Wayve is committed to ensuring that our guests have access to the finest wines from around the world, whether they are looking to be delightfully surprised, or are seeking something reassuringly familiar.
Where passion meets knowledge
Each of Wayve’s recommendations draws on her wide-ranging knowledge and reflects her years of studying wine. She has been certified through the Court of Master Sommeliers and has completed multiple WSET courses. She’s also the Vice Chairperson of The South African Sommelier’s Association. In attaining these qualifications, Wayve has had to demonstrate a deep understanding of wines from around the world and how to pair them perfectly with each course.
As a guest at any of our properties, you can look forward to the complete food and wine experience no matter whether you’re enjoying the perfect stay in the city, the bush or by the sea.
A hand-picked selection
Wayve personally chooses each bottle on our wine lists so that you can savour some of the best wines in the world during your holiday. No matter what the season, or what you’ve chosen from the menu, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfect pairing. And should you need help deciding, Wayve or one of her team of highly skilled wine stewards is always available to provide expert advice that takes into account your personal preferences.
A life in wine
Wayve was born in Cape Town, on the doorstep of one of the world’s finest grape-growing regions – the Cape Winelands. She has acquired a wealth of experience whilst working in prestigious establishments both in South Africa and overseas.
She’s excited about the chance to share and grow her unrivalled knowledge of local and international wines, and giving our guests an even better experience, whether over lunch, dinner, or at sundowners on an afternoon game drive.
To learn more about The Royal Portfolio’s wine offering, you can email Wayve Kolevsohn at wayve@trp.travel