“Failure is an opportunity to try again more intelligently.” This philosophy underpins the remarkable journey of Nondumiso Pikashe, the founder of Sesfikile Wines. Her story is one of transition, passion, and breaking barriers, culminating in a wine brand that celebrates heritage, quality, and the spirit of arrival.#FacesofSummer: If at first you don’t succeed…youtu.be/JkIylWejee4https://www.youtube.com/embed/JkIylWejee4?feature=oembed
From Classroom to Cape Winelands
Nondumiso Pikashe’s story begins not in a vineyard, but in the heart of Gugulethu, a township in Cape Town where she was born and raised. After attending local schools and pursuing higher education at the University of the Western Cape and UCT, she dedicated 13 years to teaching in Khayelitsha. However, a desire for a new venture stirred within her.
Living just a stone’s throw from the breathtaking Cape Winelands, Nondumiso found herself fascinated by the manicured vineyards and the world-renowned South African wine industry. Recognizing the conventional paths into the industry – owning a farm or becoming a winemaker – were challenging, she chose a different route, one fueled by intelligence and determination. Thus, Sesfikile Wines was born.
Sesfikile: We Have Arrived
The name “Sesfikile” is deeply significant; it means “We Have Arrived” in isiXhosa. It’s a celebratory and aspirational name, reflecting not only Nondumiso’s personal journey but also a broader narrative about South African women and the dynamism of the local wine scene.
Sesfikile Wines aims to demystify the often-intimidating world of wine. Nondumiso emphasizes breaking barriers, evident even in the unconventional bottle designs that stand out from the traditional. The brand is about making quality wine accessible and encouraging people to trust their own palates.
Tasting the Story: The Wines
Sesfikile showcases unique blends, often highlighting underutilized grape varieties.
- Sesfikile Chenin Blanc/Roussanne Blend: This white blend is described as beautifully fruity and balanced. Expect tropical notes from the Chenin Blanc complemented by honeyed aromas from the Roussanne. It’s an unwooded wine, perfect for enjoying by the pool, with fish or white chicken, or even paired unconventionally with traditional dishes like umphokoqo (a maize meal dish).
- Sesfikile Shiraz/Cinsault Blend: Reflecting the brand’s focus on aesthetics, this red blend is as beautiful as it is flavourful. It cleverly uses Cinsault, a grape that lost favour after the Pinotage era, to complement the sometimes spicy Shiraz. The result is an accessible, medium-bodied wine with a lovely balance, soft tannins, and good fruitiness. Nondumiso suggests pairing it with hearty dishes like oxtail, spaghetti bolognese, or lasagna, or simply enjoying it on its own to evoke good memories.
Embrace Your Palate
Nondumiso encourages wine lovers to move beyond rigid rules, like only drinking white wine in summer. The most important thing is to listen to and respect your own palate. Wine appreciation, she notes, is about engaging the senses – something not always encouraged in her upbringing but central to the wine experience.
Experience Sesfikile Wines
Sesfikile Wines represents more than just excellent South African wine; it embodies a story of resilience, heritage, and arrival. It’s an invitation to explore, taste, and celebrate.
You can explore more about Nondumiso Pikashe’s journey and purchase these unique wines directly from the Sesfikile Wines website or find them in select hotels.
Here’s to overcoming challenges and celebrating arrival, perhaps with a glass of Sesfikile. Cheers!