South Africa’s new generation of winemakers is reshaping the country’s reputation in the global wine industry, with 33-year-old Banele Vakele, founder of Tembela Wines, standing out as one of its most promising figures.
Vakele has gained increasing international recognition for producing wines that combine technical precision with a personal, story-driven approach to winemaking. His journey began in the Constantia wine region, where he attended high school on a scholarship.
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He says the experience exposed him to the world of wine for the first time and sparked his interest in the craft, blending nature, science and hands-on production.
He later studied at the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute, one of South Africa’s leading winemaking schools, where he developed formal training in viticulture and cellar techniques.
He admits he had little exposure to wine before university, but quickly developed a passion for the industry’s culture and science.
Vakele further advanced his career through the Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme, a prestigious mentorship initiative that trains young winemakers under some of South Africa’s most experienced cellar masters.
During this period, he gained experience at several leading estates, including Ernie Els Wines, Groot Constantia and Savage Wines, while also working alongside established winemakers such as those at DeMorgenzon, Klein Constantia and Bouchard Finlayson.
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His training extended internationally, with harvest experience in Burgundy, Champagne and Beaujolais in France, as well as winemaking exposure in the United States and Australia across organic, biodynamic and modern production systems.
Vakele said these glob- al experiences shaped his philosophy, giving him a broader understanding of how different regions approach soil, vineyards and production methods.
In 2020, he launched Tembela Wines, a boutique label named in honour of his late mother. The name reflects themes of faith, hope and belief, which he says remain central to his work and motivation.
Despite the financial and structural challenges facing independent winemakers, Vakele produces his wines through contracted cellar facilities, maintaining full creative and technical control over production.
Tembela Wines currently produces a Syrah and a Chenin Blanc, both of which have received recognition in local competitions, including a recent award at a national young winemakers’ contest.
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The brand has also begun expanding internationally, with exports to markets including the United States, United Kingdom and Hong Kong, and upcoming distribution planned for Belgium and the Netherlands.
Vakele said he aims to position South African wines on equal footing with global producers, emphasising quality over identity labels.
He also highlights the collaborative culture within South Africa’s wine industry, describing it as supportive and knowledge-driven.
Recently, Vakele was recognised at the iTOO Next Generation Awards 2026, where his Tembela Syrah 2025 won Best Overall Wine.
The awards celebrate young winemakers under 35 who demonstrate excellence and innovation in the industry.
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Organisers praised the dedication required to produce consistent, high-quality wines, noting that the new generation of winemakers is defined by discipline, technical skill and a strong commitment to excellence.
Dining and Cooking