The Eat Out Woolworths Wine Service Award honours wine service excellence across South Africa’s dining landscape, celebrating those with an unwavering commitment to the craft and exceptional wine knowledge. The award seeks to recognise professionals who can expertly explain which wines will suit which dishes and how they elevate the food, while maintaining an open and curious mind about the expansive and ever-changing world of wine. 

Addressing the industry need
This Special Award represents a natural evolution in recognising South Africa’s diverse hospitality talents, celebrating the wine service professionals who work alongside acclaimed chefs to create exceptional dining experiences. By highlighting these skilled practitioners, the award serves Eat Out’s core mission of elevating South African dining culture, ensuring that every aspect of the hospitality experience receives well-deserved recognition. This initiative champions the development of wine service standards that complement the country’s world-class culinary reputation, building on the foundation of excellence already established across the industry. 

A natural partnership
The partnership between Eat Out and Woolworths represents perfect brand synergy rooted in shared values of excellence and quality. “At Woolworths, we believe great wine deserves great service,” explains Tanya Mogotsi, GM of WCellar. “This award allows us to recognise the individuals who elevate that experience and to support the growth of South Africa’s wine and dining industry.” 

Woolworths’ commitment extends beyond mere sponsorship. “Excellence guides everything we do in the wine category,” Tanya continues. “This award mirrors that focus by honouring the people who bring wine to life for guests through skill, passion and professionalism.” This alignment reinforces both brands’ dedication to advancing industry standards while celebrating South African wine culture. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Eat Out (@eatoutguide)

Expert perspectives
Industry professionals understand the award’s transformative impact. Michelle Erasmus, head sommelier at La Colombe and the 2025 winner of this award, emphasises its broader significance: “The Eat Out Woolworths Wine Service Award shows young sommeliers and wine stewards that chefs aren’t the only rockstars in our industry. As wine professionals, we also have the chance to show up, rock the service and contribute significantly to the guest’s overall dining experience.” 

For Michelle, exceptional wine service transcends technical skill. “Great wine and beverage service elegantly integrates with the menu. It’s all about how food and wine come together as one from the guest’s perspective.” This holistic approach perfectly embodies the award’s focus on professionals who can expertly explain wine and food relationships. 

Michelle’s passion reflects the curious mindset the award celebrates: “When I chose wine as a career, one of the deciding factors was the fact that it’s an endless pursuit. Part of what keeps me curious is knowing that I will never know everything, and every day is an opportunity to add to my knowledge base.” 

“I am in an incredibly fortunate position to tell the stories of winemakers and forgotten vineyards,” Michelle notes, highlighting wine service professionals’ role in preserving and promoting South Africa’s viticultural heritage. 

Setting the standard
Tanya believes recognition drives industry evolution: “Recognition sets a benchmark. Celebrating outstanding service raises expectations, encourages continuous learning and reinforces that wine service is a respected and essential part of the dining experience in South Africa.” 

The Eat Out Woolworths Wine Service Award ultimately represents more than recognition – it’s an investment in South Africa’s culinary future, ensuring that the country’s diverse voices and exceptional talent continue to define its evolving dining landscape. 

Keep an eye on Eat Out’s platforms as we gear up to the 2026 Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards taking place on 23 March 2026 at the Baxter Theatre Centre.