Kimberley-born Armand Ridgard has been crowned Best Sommelier of South Africa 2025 after a tense finale held during Cape Wine, where seven of the country’s leading sommeliers faced rigorous tasting, theory and service tests.
Ridgard studied linguistics before turning to wine and his route from language to labels has shaped the way he communicates about wine to guests and colleagues.
He trained in notable kitchens and restaurants in Cape Town and overseas, learning tasting technique and service craft along the way. (News24) That background helped him deliver clear, confident presentations to the judges and the audience.
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The South African Sommeliers Association ran a full day of competition at The Rockefeller Hotel in Cape Town, testing contestants on blind tasting, wine knowledge and table service under time pressure.
According to a wine.co.za report, SASA praised the standard of contestants and noted Ridgard’s composure and hospitality mindset as stand-out qualities.
‘As sommeliers, we take immense pride in representing the extraordinary people who pour their heart and soul into crafting South Africa’s remarkable wines. It’s a beautiful industry to be a part of. I am excited to serve as an ambassador and to continue telling our story with absolute reverence and delight,’ said Armand Ridgard.
Ridgard said winning carries responsibility and that he will use the title to promote South African wine and mentor newcomers to the trade.
The win places Ridgard among a new generation of sommeliers who combine technical skill with warm service.
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Picture: South African Sommeliers Association / Facebook
Dining and Cooking