My story

I’m a South African-born wine enthusiast living in the Netherlands. My first encounter with wine was far from refined—“Catemba,” a mix of cheap red wine and Coca-Cola, was the drink of choice in my younger days. Thankfully, my wine journey has come a long way since then.

Growing up in South Africa, I discovered the refreshing pleasure of an ice-cold white wine on a scorching summer day, and the comforting warmth of a bold red—affectionately called “oxblood” by my dad—as we gathered around the braai fire. But it wasn’t until I moved to the Netherlands that my appreciation for wine truly deepened.

Tasting wines from around the world sparked a fascination with different varietals and styles. What began as a casual wine course for fun soon turned into a passionate pursuit of knowledge. I’ve since completed several wine courses, including the WSET Level 3 and the Cape Wine Academy Certificate. I’m currently continuing my studies with the WSET Level 4 Diploma.

I believe South African wines can proudly stand alongside the best Old World wines. Through my wine tastings, I aim to showcase the quality, diversity, and heritage of South African wine—bringing a taste of home to a wider audience.

Lynn de Vries

“The juice of the grape is the liquid quintessence

of concentrated sunbeams.”

Thomas Love Peacock