Mutle Mogase
Mutle Mogase, co-founder and executive chairman of the Vantage Capital Group, concedes that steering the multi-billion-rand concern comes with its share of personal demands. His outlet: fine wining and dining, and a share in high-profile local wine brand Epicurean. Interview by Rob Morris.
What was the first bottle of wine that all made sense and why?
In 1986, whilst at university, I drank a Meerlust Rubicon 1980 that proved an instant revelation.
What was your most memorable wine experience?
Our Single Bottle Wine Club had members bring their last or only bottle of a house or vintage. I was privileged enough to savour a Mouton Rothschild 1945, Chateau Coutet 1908 and Grand Constance 1883.
What wine that you have not yet tasted do you most want to?
Any vintage of Pomerol’s Le Pin.
What was the last wine that you bought?
Various back vintages of Kanonkop Paul Sauer, Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon.
How big is your wine collection and where do you store it?
Around 1 200 bottles, cellared at home.
Which are your favourite South African wine producers?
Besides Epicurean, too many to name. The overall improvement in quality locally is quite astounding.
What was your most embarrassing moment to do with wine?
Some years back, my boss okayed a shockingly corked wine as fit to consume. It was awkward, to say the least…
What do you like least about wine?
Perhaps the saying, “Compromise is for relationships, not wine” best sums it up…
What is your favourite meal?
Freshly cooked foie gras and anything with black truffle.
What are your favourite restaurants in South Africa?
Again, too many to mention.
Which three people would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
My beautiful wife Baba, and Madame Clicquot hosting us at her property. Anyone else would be surplus to requirements.
What is your current state of mind?
Frantic. Finding time to balance needs and wants…
What is your most treasured possession?
I value relationships more.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Gourmet holidays with friends in winelands destinations internationally.
How do you relax?
Reading, weekends away with my family, working in my cellar and long Sunday lunches with fellow wine lovers.
Who are your favourite writers?
I read mostly biographies and history.
Who are your favourite musicians?
Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Nina Simone and Sting top the list.
Where did you spend your last holiday?
Florence, Tuscany.
What is your favourite city in the world and why?
Paris, but plenty still to experience.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
No mundane tasks like earning a living.
