FOOD + DRINK

Koni Wines: ‘If it is not different, it is not change’

Koni Wines was founded in 2015 and is the brainchild of Koni Maliehe, who resigned from her corporate job to start her own business.

“I believe that we are all capable beings given an opportunity to learn, explore and practise. I come from a background of scholars [and] teachers who had values of building … a better South Africa. It was two years before my resignation from my corporate career that I felt something [had] to change; I needed to stretch myself,” she noted.

Maliehe says she believes in the brand’s “African story”. “It defines who I am, what I want to achieve and how to achieve it through my African-ness. I am not about following a crowd but [I follow] my own path. Koni Wines doesn’t have to be embraced by all, but by those who believe in our story. Our values are weaved in our offering and by focusing on consistent quality wines for our customers.”

Koni Maliehe

In terms of representation of people of colour in the wine industry, Maliehe feels more can be done.

“It is unfortunate to observe, we are not there [yet]. Sadly it sometimes feels like we [are] still in the 80s. Being a woman and being black is an added double pack full of challenges, however, not all is dark and [gloom],” she said. “There are success stories, [however], some people are just tired of the old mindsets. So, those are the people we tend to work with and collaborate. We will always be different in race, thoughts, business ideas but our common goal is running successful businesses. I think if we could focus on the bigger goal instead of egos, then we could achieve more.”

Her advice to aspiring winemakers: “Define your vision and a purpose in life. In that way, you remain focused on the ball and not on toxic players. Keep an eye on that ball, no matter what.”

Quick-fire Q&A

What is your favourite varietal, and why?

Koni Shiraz – solid rounded tannins, plenty of earthy, meaty flavours with a good long finish. Matured for 14 months in French oak barrels.

If you could have the ultimate food-and-wine pairing, what would that be?

I already facilitated this event few weeks ago – one of our first Chef’s Table food paired with Koni to 20 fabulous customers in the outskirts of Pretoria, at our new home for Gauteng events, NOKO Farm. We teamed up with a young inspiring chef, Thabo.

If you could sit down for a wine tasting with anyone – whether they’re still alive or no longer with us – who would that be?

My late grandparents and dad.

You can buy their lovely wines from their online shop or contact them at info@koniwines.com

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