WOSA WORLD

Russian Media Trip 6–10 October 2014

14 October 2014

In the beginning of October, the Cape winelands were visited by WOSA guests from Russia: Kirill Aleksandrov, a journalist and Alexander Rassadkin – a sommelier and wine educator.  

Kirill Aleksandrov is the director of the publishing holding 'Imperia Vkusa'. The company is publishing the wine magazine of the same name – the only remaining independent wine publication in Russia – and runs wine events, wine rankings, sommelier contests, etc. Kirill is also a journalist and frequent visitor to different wine-producing regions around the world.

Aleksander Rassadkin is the 'rising star' sommelier from St. Petersburg. Apart from consulting to several well-known restaurants, Alexander is also a deputy director and leading educator at one of the most renowned sommelier schools in St. Petersburg – Enotria. In June 2014 Alexander won the prestigious title of the Champion of the Baltic Cup Professional Sommelier Competition.

They said that one of the most unforgettable experiences was a sunset at Table Mountain accompanied by a glass of MCC. Apart from that the programme included visits to many wine estates: Groot Constantia, Flagstone, Simonsig, Kaapzicht, Bergkelder, Nederburg, Leopards Leap, and others. Several wine tastings were also organised at the hotel and during dinners. The programme was concluded by a trip to the Cape of Good Hope.

Thus, these were five days filled with a lot of cellar tours, vineyard visits, wine tastings and sight-seeing. The guests were very impressed with the quality and variety of our wines and stated that their understanding of our philosophy increased. There were no major revelations, since both of them knew SA wines well enough before this visit. The trip just increased their confidence in our credentials. We are expecting very positive feedback and coverage from this visit.

Vladimir Gorodkov, WOSA Russia – October 2014