Marcus Lewis has dedicated himself to the art and science of winemaking for nearly two decades. As the cellar foreman at Kanonkop Wine Estate, his journey is of perseverance, skill, and a huge love for his craft. On Thursday, 6 February 2025, his contributions were recognised during the annual Wine Harvest Commemorative Event at Groot Constantia, where he became the first-ever recipient of the Wine Agri-Worker Award.
This accolade highlights the essential role of Agri-workers in defining South Africa’s wine industry. Marcus is a prime example of how dedication and continuous learning can transform an individual’s career and the industry. His track record speaks for itself, from winning multiple Western Cape Prestige Agri Awards to representing South Africa in the Burgundy France Cellar Worker Exchange Programme.
Despite his many achievements, he remains humble and deeply committed to mentorship. “This is my 19th year in the wine industry, and receiving this award is a great honour. I hope to inspire others always to give their best, stay committed, and trust that their hard work will be rewarded,” he says.
For Marcus, winemaking is more than just a job – it’s a craft that demands patience, precision, and a relentless pursuit of quality. “Pride in your work, patience, and focus are key. Quality always outweighs quantity,” he says. At Kanonkop, he leads by example, ensuring that every bottle produced meets the estate’s high standards while empowering his colleagues to excel.
Beyond his personal journey, Marcus believes in the power of education to uplift the next generation of Agri-workers. “Education is power. Enrolling individuals in courses benefits them and strengthens the companies they work for. Providing opportunities for growth within organisations is essential.”
Marcus plans to further his studies at Elsenburg and become an assistant winemaker so that he can lead his own winemaking team. His advice to those starting out in the industry: “Love what you do, have passion, and always strive for excellence.”