Nongcebo Langa, the talented winemaker at Delheim Estate in Stellenbosch, achieved a significant milestone in her burgeoning career by claiming the esteemed 2023 Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year Award. Since 1981, the Diners Club Winemaker of the Year has recognized exceptional South African winemakers, standing as a pinnacle acknowledgment within the Cape cellar craft.
Introduced 23 years ago, the Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year Award aims to nurture winemakers under 30, fostering skill development, individual expression, and elevating the future reputation of South African wines worldwide. In this year’s contest, Nongcebo’s Delheim Gewürztraminer 2022 stood out among numerous exceptional entries from the Cape winelands, securing the top spot after rigorous evaluation by a distinguished panel of experts.
Reflecting on her achievement, Nongcebo expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging the honor of joining the ranks of past Diners Club winners—an accomplishment that both humbles and elates her. Just having turned 30, this win marks her transition into the broader sphere of winemaking excellence.
Originally from Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal and lacking a formal wine background, Nongcebo’s journey into winemaking stemmed from a high school agriculture bursary. Her decision to pursue winemaking led her to Stellenbosch University, where she immersed herself in oenology, solidifying her passion for the industry.
Her pursuit of knowledge extended to researching the effects of smoke-taint on grapes, particularly pertinent in regions like the Cape susceptible to wildfires. Nongcebo’s dedication also led her to gain international experience in Sonoma County, California, and Germany’s Pfalz region, before joining Delheim in 2019 as an assistant winemaker.
For Nongcebo, Delheim’s heritage and commitment to winemaking excellence have been pivotal in shaping her career. She emphasizes the importance of the estate’s legacy, rooted in the Sperling family’s spirit and the unique Simonsberg terroir, which continually inspire the production of quality wines.
Winning the Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year with a Delheim Gewürztraminer holds particular significance for Nongcebo, as it aligns with the estate’s renowned varieties. The Gewürztraminer, celebrated for its fruity and fresh characteristics, symbolizes her joy in this achievement.
Nora Thiel, Delheim’s co-owner and director, lauds Nongcebo’s achievement, highlighting her invaluable contributions to the team. Describing Nongcebo’s scientific expertise, intuitive grasp of Delheim’s terroir, and exceptional organizational skills, Nora affirms the deserving nature of her recognition.
As part of her prize, Nongcebo eagerly anticipates a trip to Bordeaux—a long-held dream—to explore the iconic wine region, an experience that signifies a remarkable milestone in her journey through the world of wines.
