Mbhazima Shilowa reveals his most memorable wine experience
What was the first bottle of wine that all made sense and why?
I can't remember [the exact name], but it was a 1981 Burgundy with my friends from the French trade union federation at Ille de France restaurant in Geneva.
What was your most memorable wine experience?
Wine tasting with Remy Krug.
What wine that you have not yet tasted do you most want to?
If ever there was a 1958 Lafite!
What was the last wine that you bought?
Château de Puligny-Montrachet Meursault 2000
How big is your wine collection and where do you store it?
A couple of hundred, well stored in a cellar with a dining table. It is a sight to behold.
Which are your favourite South African wine producers?
Too many to mention. Also, I don't want to be thrown out when next I swagger near [the ones I don't mention].
What was your most embarrassing moment to do with wine?
Having Mutle [Mogase, chairman of Vantage Capital] and my wife insist that a bottle of wine we had almost finished drinking was corked.
What do you like least about wine?
Brett or cork, regardless of the label - or should I call it French pong?
What is your favourite meal?
At home, mainly stew - oxtail, knuckles, neck, lamb-shank - to the chagrin of my wife who thinks my diet should also include fish and vegetables.
What are your favourite restaurants in South Africa?
Those with good food, meat, a great winelist and great service. A few indeed.
Which three people would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
Diana Krall all on her own - for the jazz, of course.
What is your most treasured possession?
I am worried that my friends might demand it should I disclose it. But it is a Krug product.
What is your current state of mind?
Contemplating when to have that special vintage Krug and with whom.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Spending my COSATU stipend on food, wines and cigars while at the International Labour Organisation in Geneva.
How do you relax?
Escaping to the bush.
What is your favourite city in the world and why?
Paris. Food, wine and, on the odd occasion, who knows, women and dance.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
With friends savouring a glass of wine.
