His appointment comes at an important time in the industry where mavericks are being celebrated and boutique operations praised for their purist approach to their craft. He spends much of his time exploring the lesser-known wine producing regions of the Cape in search of interesting offerings to add to the already impressive collection at One&Only, one of the largest in Africa.
"The wine list at our hotel is massive and features both old and new world wines as well as many vertical vintages, it's my and the team's job to introduce our guests to new tastes and to help them celebrate their favourites and with the superstar wines from the major wine producing countries, it's always a pleasure," he says
Recent developments have included the Wine & Dine evenings where small groups (up to 30 people) dine with him, chef Reuben Riffel and a chosen winemaker. "I like Reuben's approach to food and his combining of South African and international flavours - this works very well with our wine collection which is based on the same principles. I tell my team that we are the hosts at a dinner where our aim is to ensure our guests never forget the combined wine and food experience."
A people's person, motivated and passionate about motivating others, Ntezo works closely with the sommelier team teaching them what he's learned along the way, helping them hone their skills and sharing academic material wherever he can. He himself received this kind of nurturing many years ago as a pool barman at a local hotel where a winemaker spotted his inherent talent for tasting - setting the ball rolling for a fascinating and rewarding career.
