SA Comedian, Soli Philander
Undoubtedly one of South Africa's best-loved comedians, Soli Philander has been involved in local entertainment for more than 20 years. Loudmouthed and flamboyant, he has also become a familiar face at wine events where he often acts as master of ceremonies. Interview by Jeanri-Tine van Zyl.
What was the first bottle of wine that all made sense and why?
I’m not known for sense at the end of a bottle of wine…
What was your most memorable wine experience?
When Beyers Truter was still at Kanonkop, he invited my family over for drinks, eats and a tour of the cellars – magical.
What wine that you have not yet tasted do you most want to?
I don’t taste wine… I drink it.
What was the last wine that you bought?
Since moving back to Cape Town, I haven’t had to buy wine – it is the preferred gift around these parts.
How big is your wine collection and where do you store it?
Not very big, so we try and hide it from the older children (two are of drinking age...).
Which are your favourite South African wine producers?
The ones who produce…?
What was your most embarrassing moment to do with wine?
The good thing about it is that I don’t remember…
What do you like least about wine?
That sometimes I don’t remember.
What is your favourite meal?
The one where I don’t have to do the dishes afterwards.
What are your favourite restaurants in South Africa?
I think we have really good restaurants in this country so it is hard to single certain ones out.
Which three people would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
Nelson Mandela, Graça Machel and my wife, Toni.
What is your current state of mind?
Positive.
What is your most treasured possession?
My sense of humour.
What is your greatest extravagance?
My four children.
How do you relax?
I paint a canvas.
Who are your favourite writers?
Wayne W Dyer, William Horwood and William Shakespeare.
Who are your favourite musicians?
Bob Marley, Simply Red and Garth Taylor.
Where did you spend your last holiday?
The Palace of the Lost City, Sun City.
What is your favourite city in the world and why?
Cape Town. It is the most beautiful Cape in all the world and it’s home.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
My idea of perfect happiness is hanging onto my equilibrium regardless of what’s happening around me.
