Head of e.tv’s weather department, Derek van Dam

What was the first bottle of wine that made sense and why?
When I first tasted The Chocolate Block from Boekenhoutskloof, my palate was jumping up and down with excitement. I mean, I’ve never tasted something so smooth, yet refined, in my life. A really wonderful red. In my opinion, it is the best hands down.

 

What was your most memorable wine experience?
One of the first weekends I spent in South Africa I attended the Franschhoek Bastille Festival. I don’t think I have ever laughed so hard. What a blast!

What wine that you have not yet tasted do you most want to?
I so badly want to taste a white varietal from Bordeaux. I’ve heard wonders, but am still yet to partake.

How big is your wine collection and where do you store it?
I currently have a collection of about 25 bottles at home. I have a small wine rack, but am planning to buy a cooler fridge sooner rather than later.

Which are your favourite South African wine producers?
I really enjoy the certified organic Sauvignon Blanc from Spier Wine Estate near Stellenbosch. I also have an affinity for the Graham Beck Old Road Pinotage 2000. But seriously, I think The Chocolate Block is the bee’s knees!

What was your most embarrassing moment to do with wine?
Definitely when I spilled red wine all over my mother’s new runner on her dining-room table!

What do you like least about wine?
Red wine teeth!

What is your favourite meal?
My mother’s home-made lasagne!

What are your favourite restaurants in South Africa?
Reuben’s in Franschhoek or the Codfather in Camps Bay, Cape Town.

Which three people would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
Dave Matthews, Barack Obama and Nelson Mandela.

What is your most treasured possession?
My acoustic guitar.

What is your greatest extravagance?
Caviar on my salmon roses!

Who are your favourite writers?
Dan Brown and Dean Koontz.

Who are your favourite musicians?
Dave Matthews Band and Jack Johnson.

Where did you spend your last holiday?
Mozambique and the United States of America.

What is your favourite city in the world and why?
Aside from Cape Town, I really enjoy Chicago. There is so much to do in the city. It lines the shore of my favourite lake, Lake Michigan. It’s a massive city, but still manages a home-town feel. The people are friendly and there are four distinct seasons to enjoy!

What is your idea of happiness?
Being utterly in love with your significant other.

What do you love most about your job?
I love that I am living my dream job every day.

After a day in the studio, how do you relax?
I have to play my guitar to completely unwind. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible.