Cellar worker of the year

Of the 145 participants in 2010, 36 candidates progressed to the second round where they had to present a wine tasting to the panel, which consisted of project leader Santi Basson, Gerard Martin (Winetech) and Charl Theron. The wine could be one they chose. During the interview, they were asked to do a technical calculation based on their experience in the cellar, amongst other questions. The panel also tested their knowledge with questions about wine production.

Final rounds

Sixteen candidates went to the third round, where they were required to give a five-minute presentation on any wine industry subject, which they had to research and prepare themselves. They were also given wine from which certain character traits had to be identified, for example volatile acidity, wood, sugar etc. The standard of the candidates was extremely high this year.

The five finalists were:

• Martin Gidlan of Stellenzicht, Stellenbosch
  
• Nelson Buthelezi of Delheim, Stellenbosch
  
• Elrico Coetzee, Orange River Wine Cellars, Upington
  
• Baron Willemse, Vrede en Lust, Franschhoek
  
• Adam Alexander, Rupert & Rothschild, Franschhoek

Programme awards

The programme offers free training not only to the finalists and winner but also to the 16 people who made it through to the third round. They will all be invited to attend a HopkinsCalvert life skills course on relationships and communications, sponsored by WCSA. In addition to this, the five finalists each receive an internet-based GetSmarter tasting course. On top of the training mentioned, the winner will also receive accredited technical training that will add value to his or her career.

This year, the Cape Women's Forum has also sponsored the Complete Woman and Adult Man courses for all the workers of the winner's cellar.