The world’s top sommeliers affiliated to the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale will gather in the Mother City for a historic first time in its 55-year history. The Cape Winelands town, Stellenbosch, will also play host to the delegates. This is also the first time that the conference will be held on the African continent.
“This event is an important milestone not just for ASI but for the African continent,” says William Wouters, President of ASI.
WIKIPEDIA explains: The Association de la Sommellerie Internationale is a nonprofit organisation founded in Reims in 1969 to develop and promote the sommelier profession around the world. Every three years since its creation, it holds a competition in an international city and names a person as the best sommelier in the world: the World’s Best Sommelier Contest.
World’s top sommeliers
The ASI’s annual General Assembly will see delegates from more than 60 countries gather here for strategic meetings, cultural exchange, and unforgettable wine and food experiences. This landmark gathering is also the first major ASI event of its kind to be hosted in the region.
Wouters added, “South Africa has long been one of the most exciting wine-producing countries in the world, and the professionalism and energy of its sommelier community made it a natural choice for this historic gathering.”
MORE ABOUT: Association de la Sommellerie Internationale
Cape Town and Stellenbosch to Host Historic Gathering
The Western Cape will be the backdrop for the 24-25 May event. In partnership with the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA), the 2025 ASI General Assembly will unite top sommeliers, global wine leaders, and local industry changemakers to shape the future of wine service worldwide.
Beyond official meetings, delegates will dive into curated tastings, vineyard tours, and cultural experiences showcasing South Africa’s rich biodiversity, sustainable practices, and warm hospitality.
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Spencer Fondaumiere, Chairman of SASA, adds: “Hosting the General Assembly is not just a privilege, it’s a turning point. It’s an opportunity to showcase the depth and diversity of South African wine and service talent, and to celebrate the momentum of sommellerie in Africa.”
ASI General Assembly Heads to Africa for the First Time
The event also sets the stage for a historic first: the ASI Best Sommelier of Africa & the Middle East, coming to South Africa in 2027. With momentum growing, the 2025 GA marks a pivotal moment for celebrating and advancing sommelier talent across the continent. The gathering is supported by Stellenbosch Wine Routes, AdVini, Spar, Winterhalter, SA Brandy, Wesgro, SA Wine, and many more committed partners.
