From Coffee expert to internationally certified Smmelir

Marinus is an internationally certified sommelier with 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He currently serves as a panel member of South Africa’s spirits and wine board. His journey through the world of beverages is as rich and diverse as the wines he passionately promotes. Marinus began his career as a barista and regional manager for renowned South African coffee brands Deluxe Coffeeworks and TriBeCa Coffee Roasters, before fully immersing himself in the world of wine. In addition to his love for wine, he’s an avid mountain biker and hiker—especially in the breathtaking mountains around Stellenbosch. Today, we dive deeper into his fascinating journey.

Q&A with Marinus Wijnbeek

Tessa: Can you tell us how you became an internationally certified sommelier?

Marinus: My journey began with a deep love for hospitality, which eventually led me into the world of wine. Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked across various sectors of the hospitality industry. Most recently, I was a barista and regional manager for Deluxe Coffeeworks and TriBeCa Coffee Roasters, two of South Africa’s most beloved coffee brands. That experience, combined with my formal sommelier training, gave me a broad knowledge of the beverage world. It’s a real privilege to now serve on the South African spirits and wine board and contribute to the industry.

Tessa: What do you find most fulfilling about working in the wine industry?

Marinus: The most fulfilling aspect for me is sharing the rich diversity of South African wine with others. The unique terroirs and passionate producers create something truly special. I love helping people discover wines that speak to them and showcase the unique qualities of their origins. Every wine tells a story, and sharing that story is deeply rewarding.

Tessa: Your passion for wine is clear. Can you tell us more about the private guided experiences you offer?

Marinus: I offer private wine and terroir experiences fully tailored to my clients’ preferences. These tours can be done by car or by bike, offering a unique way to explore the beautiful Stellenbosch region and beyond. My focus is on premium wines that best express regional profiles and winemaking techniques. I include a mix of classic producers, trendsetters, and up-and-coming winemakers. Each tour is personal, allowing me to match estates with what my clients are most passionate about. As a local, I have the inside scoop on what’s happening in the region, which adds a special touch to every tour.

Tessa: That sounds like a wonderful experience! I know you’re also a big fan of adventure. How do you combine your love of mountain biking and hiking with your wine tours?

Marinus: For me, adventure and wine tourism go hand in hand. The stunning landscapes of South Africa offer the perfect backdrop for both. Whether it’s mountain biking through vineyards or hiking in the Stellenbosch mountains, there’s a unique connection between the land and the wine it produces. By incorporating these adventures into my tours, guests can truly immerse themselves in the terroir and feel how the environment shapes the wines they taste.

Tessa: You have a special fondness for the region from Robertson to Bonnievale. What makes this area so special to you?

Marinus: The Robertson to Bonnievale region is special because of its lime-rich soils, which produce vibrant, expressive wines—especially white wines. It’s a well-established area with renowned producers like Springfield and Graham Beck, but also home to exciting new winemakers creating their own regional styles. The blend of tradition and innovation is compelling, and I believe it has the potential to set new standards in the South African wine industry.

Tessa: It’s clear you have a deep connection with the places you visit and the wines you share. What are some of the top destinations on your bucket list, both locally and internationally?

Marinus: Internationally, I’d love to go trail running in the Himalayas, cycle through the Rhône Valley, spend time at family-run wineries, and go mountain biking in California with a stop in Napa Valley. Locally, I’m looking forward to an upcoming ocean safari and diving trip in Mozambique, a multi-day Tankwa Karoo MTB tour, and a 4×4 adventure along Namibia’s Skeleton Coast. These experiences bring together my love of adventure and my passion for discovering new wine regions and cultures.

Tessa: Those sound like incredible adventures! Finally, can you share a little-known fact about yourself that might surprise our readers?

Marinus: Before I entered the wine world, I spent 10 years as a coffee professional and even competed in regional and national barista championships. Also, two-thirds of my family currently lives in the Netherlands, so I have a strong connection to the country and its culture.

Marinus’ journey from coffee expert to sommelier truly reflects his passion for beverages and hospitality. His private wine and terroir experiences offer a unique blend of adventure and wine tourism, showcasing the best of South Africa’s wine regions. With a deep appreciation for the land and the wines it produces, Marinus continues to inspire others to explore and enjoy the rich diversity of South African wine. I’m incredibly proud to work with Marinus and confidently send all my travelers his way so he can share his love for wine and this beautiful region with them.