Rachel Fundiswa Philile

Hailing originally from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal,Rachel Fundiswa Philile (AKA Fundi), settled in Stellenbosch in the Western Cape two years ago where she fell in love with wine.

Lanzerac Hotel & Spa - Candidate Rachel Fundiswa Philile
Up until she discovered her passion for the fruits of the vine, Fundi enjoyed a varied career with positions all over the country, including serving as a Restaurant Hostess at the Palazzo at Monte casino in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

Once the wine bug bit, she obtained a Level 1 certificate from the Sommeliers Academy which saw her learning all about the wines of South Africa. She put this knowledge into practice in her role as a Tasting Room Assistant at Anura Vineyard, before becoming a Wine Steward at the Lanzerac Hotel & Spa.

Young wine stewards & chefs are nominated by their hotels and compete annually for the top spot. The candidates receive training.