# Wine Secrets, Sommelier Exams & Food Pairing Myths - Spencer Fondaumiere | Coffee Pump (E113)

An episode of [Coffee Pump Podcast](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1755013994), 4 Aug 2026, 2 h 12 min.

Audio: https://anchor.fm/s/e9aa749c/podcast/play/123739240/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2026-7-4%2F429178560-44100-2-6c92dce4ea73.m4a

Konnichiwa Fam, On this episode I sit down with Spencer Fondaumiere, one of only two ASI diploma sommeliers on the entire African continent, and a fellow St. Mary's boy. From getting suspended for streaking and stealing altar wine, to playing rugby for Kenya, working night shifts in a bread factory, and finally landing in Cape Town's wine world, his journey is anything but ordinary. On this episode, we talk about: – The single wine tasting in Stellenbosch that changed his life – Why the red wine with red meat rule is not actually a rule – The difference between red and white wine (98% of grape juice is clear) – Dry vs sweet explained for total beginners – What a decanter actually does and when to use one – Why old wine isn't always better wine – Inside the sommelier diploma exam, blind tastings and roleplay service – How a sommelier builds a restaurant's wine program and why the menu follows the wine – Wine as a store of value and why provenance matters – His top restaurant picks in Cape Town – Budget wine tips and how to find bargains on the shelf Hope you enjoy the episode. Best, Team Coffee Pump Support The Channel: - MPESA: 0707 69 69 69 - Pay Bill: 542 542 Account Number: 069 420 Our Coffee and Tea Is Launching Soon!! Keep An Eye Out On Our Website: https://coffeepumppodcast.com/shop Join Our Membership and get access to videos early: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkZKGnWZWb-S9wJdz9IGDTw/join Find Spencer Fondaumiere: - Website: https://wine.co.za/contact - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-fondaumiere-64161137 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sfondaumiere Find our host Sajid Vayani: - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sajvayani - Coffee Pump Spotify, Apple and Socials: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sajvayani Disclaimer: The content of The Coffee Pump Podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Coffee Pump Podcast, its affiliates, or any associated entities. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be construed as professional advice in any field, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or business matters. Any statements made about businesses, products, or individuals are based on personal experiences and opinions and are not meant to be taken as fact or a definitive review. The Coffee Pump Podcast does not assume any liability for the accuracy, completeness, or consequences of using the information discussed. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions, conduct their own research, and seek professional guidance where appropriate. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that The Coffee Pump Podcast is not responsible for any actions or decisions made based on the content provided.

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