Pretoria - The passion that ignited while studying in the Western Cape almost two decades ago is finally bearing fruit for Pretoria winemaker, wife and mother Sandile Felicity Maseko.
“I remember passing through aisles of wines at one of the retail stores and wondering how the wines were made and how one could choose their wines,” Maseko said.
“My passion grew from a novice drinker to an explorer of vineyards and collector of some wine brands. I love exploring new brands and trying out different blends.”
After completing her MBA, Maseko said she would enrol for multi-wine courses – mostly those that will align with making the full wine experience fun and full of memories.
Maseko has launched a new line of wines called SV Wines as part of her new business venture. The first brand offering is called Zarion by SV Wines. She sources grapes for her wines from Cape Town.
“Zarion means Warrior; a name I established through linking both my names which combined mean leadership, expansion, wealth and happiness; these are the essence of who I am,” she said.
“I don’t have any qualification in wine making, but have always trusted my ability to select the right wines for the right occasion or feasting table. My journey to owning a brand has been made easier by those I’ve encountered in the industry who have taught me a great deal about the wine-making process.
“I’m a passionate task-driven individual who seeks joy and abundance in all things. I intend to infuse those who consume Zarion by SV Wines with a warrior spirit that allows them to experience great leadership qualities, expand themselves positively, and be wealthy and happy with the different paths they have undertaken in their lives.”
In March 2020 when the Covid-19 hit the country, Maseko was entrusted with three additional roles to guide, advise, develop protocols and lead the structures required to manage the impact of the pandemic.
“Instead of being a gloomy period in my life, it became the ’aha moment’ for my progressive future after my tenure at eMalahleni Municipality, which was ending in December 2020.
“I started developing a plan of action to become an entrepreneur and creating my own brand that I’d love to share with the world. I wanted to own my time, be more available for my family and develop a legacy that I could hand over physically and that my kids could evolve over time.”
Socially, Maseko said she would like the brand to contribute to youth and women’s development; it should be be proof that that anyone can dream and create the future they see for themselves.
“With my skills having been tested at the municipality, and my creativity busting with new ideas, it all made perfect sense to venture into owning a wine brand. The journey has been beautiful.
“The wine brand has two superb premium wine offerings – a Grenache Rosé and a Cabernet Sauvignon. Both exceptional wines which bring body and character to any wine cellar.”
Maseko said she had received amazing feedback from customers and the industry.
“We’ve launched this brand at an opportune time, where there are many individuals open to trying out wines in a more relaxed environment; and without heavy expectations on being knowledgeable about wines,” she added.
Asked what in her opinion made a good wine, she replied with a laugh: “Well the wine maker!”
On a serious note, she said: “There needs to be commitment to produce a good product of good quality that can be tested through many a palate. There’s a need for a balance between the acidity of the wine and the tannin structure.
“Wine should not have a heavy after taste, or harshness; it must not be too sweet or too dry. There must be a balance between the notes on the bottle the actual taste of the wine.
“The expects will then go on to talk about the type of sand, the grapes, the weather, the fermentation process and the like.
“For me personally – a good wine is that which makes you feel good, you love and enjoy its taste and you’re not limited to explore with it in any cuisine or occasion.”
To those wanting to venture into the industry, she said: “Be open to learning, being educated and exploring the industry further. Let it be more about passion and love for the industry; the money comes truly later.
“Be prepared to compete, to be questioned and be vulnerable to the craft. Be open minded and give the evolving space a chance.
“When in doubt, ask those who’ve been in the industry for long; there are so many wonderful people who are willing to guide you and walk with you through creating your brand.”
Pretoria News