Aslina Wines with Casey Hristakos and Winemaker Ntsiki Biyela!

Join us Saturday, May 10 from 4pm to 7pm for a chance to meet the amazing Ntsiki Biyela! The tasting will start at 4pm with Casey Hristakos of Salveto Imports, who'll be pouring a selection of her wines, and Ntsiki Biyela herself will join us around 5:30pm! This is a rare opportunity to meet one of the most exciting winemakers working today.

Ntsiki Biyela is South Africa’s first black, female winemaker. Born in 1978, she initially aspired to become an engineer before turning to winemaking. Graduating from Stellenbosch University with a BSc in Viticulture and Oenology in 2003, she joined Stellekaya Wines as head winemaker, and in 2016, Biyela founded her own winery, Aslina Wines, named in honor of her late grandmother.

With Aslina Wines, Biyela has been able to express her winemaking philosophy of authenticity and minimal intervention. Her portfolio includes varietals such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Bordeaux-style blend called Umsasane, which means "acacia tree" in Zulu and was her grandmother's nickname. Biyela emphasizes sustainable practices and her winemaking focuses on allowing each wine to express its unique character, influenced by the terroir and vintage. Beyond winemaking, Biyela is actively involved in mentorship and community development, and her contributions have earned her global recognition.