A Rising Star Shaping the Future of South African Wine
2026 – The future of South African wine is being shaped by a new generation of talented, driven professionals who are redefining what is possible across the industry. Among them is Shannon Jacobs, Assistant Winemaker at Groot Constantia, who has been named one of the WineLand Media 30 Under 30 for 2026.
The annual WineLand 30 Under 30 initiative celebrates young professionals making a significant impact across the South African wine value chain. Sponsored by ROTOCON and Auric Barrels, the initiative recognises innovation, passion, and leadership among the industry’s rising stars.
For Shannon, this recognition marks both a personal milestone and a celebration of years of dedication, resilience, and relentless growth.
“I’ve wanted this recognition for a long time,” Shannon says. “Now, being in the final year of my twenties, I finally feel like I’ve truly earned it. It feels special to be recognised for the hard work and sacrifices that have shaped my journey.”
From Stellenbosch to the Cellar
Raised in Stellenbosch, Shannon grew up surrounded by vineyards and wine culture. Yet her path into winemaking was not a childhood dream, it began almost unexpectedly.
“I didn’t always know what I wanted to do,” she explains. “Like many students, I felt pressure in high school to decide on a career path early. During a visit to Stellenbosch University’s open day, my mom and I picked up flyers from different faculties. When I got home and started going through them, I came across winemaking and thought, ‘This actually sounds fascinating.’”
What immediately drew her in was the multidisciplinary nature of winemaking.
“It combined science, agriculture, and creativity, three things I naturally enjoyed. That really stood out to me.”
That spark led Shannon to pursue her studies in Viticulture and Oenology at Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute, where she graduated in 2019.
Learning the Craft at Elsenburg
Elsenburg became the place where Shannon’s interest transformed into a true passion.
Coming from a more urban background, the agricultural environment was a significant shift. “I didn’t come from a farming background, so stepping into that world was a huge adjustment.” But that challenge became foundational to her development. Elsenburg’s practical training immersed students in every stage of the winemaking process, from harvesting grapes to pressing, fermentation, and cellar work.
“That hands-on experience was invaluable. We were essentially responsible for our own small-scale winemaking projects. It prepared me incredibly well for the realities of harvest.” Her first harvest cemented her decision. “That’s when I knew this was exactly where I wanted to be.”
Harvests Across Continents
Since graduating, Shannon has built an impressive career through multiple harvests across South Africa, Austria, and the United Kingdom. These international experiences gave her both technical insight and personal growth.
Working abroad taught her more than just winemaking. “It taught me life skills. Resilience, adaptability, discipline, and how to perform under pressure.”
Navigating a foreign environment where language barriers were constant added another layer of challenge. “You learn quickly how to adapt, how to communicate differently, and how to manage yourself when you’re exhausted and under pressure.”
Those harvests also deepened her respect for vineyard and cellar teams. “I spent time picking grapes and doing physically demanding work, so I understand how hard that labour is. It gave me a much deeper appreciation for the people who make harvest possible.”
Joining Groot Constantia
In September 2024, Shannon joined the cellar team at Groot Constantia as Assistant Winemaker. Founded in 1685, Groot Constantia is South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm, and a National Treasure. “Becoming Assistant Winemaker at Groot Constantia was a huge achievement for me. It felt like a significant step forward in my career.”
Working in the Constantia Valley has also transformed her relationship with Sauvignon Blanc. “Growing up and sometimes drinking boxed wine, I never fully realised how incredible Sauvignon Blanc could be”. She laughs as she reflects on how much her tastes have evolved. “I’ve discovered just how versatile and expressive Sauvignon Blanc is, especially in this valley.”
The Future of South African Wine
Shannon is optimistic about the future of South African wine, particularly the role younger professionals will play in making wine more accessible and relevant.
She believes education is key, but wine should remain enjoyable. “Sometimes wine becomes too serious. Yes, it can be complex and educational, but it should also be fun.”
Daniel Keulder, Winemaker at Groot Constantia, shares his views on the importance of nurturing future talent. “At Groot Constantia, our heritage is built on consistency, excellence, and producing wines that honour our legacy. But great wine is ultimately made by great people. Having talented young winemakers like Shannon, who have a genuine appreciation for the wine and the craft behind it, is incredibly valuable. That passion, energy and dedication are what help make our wines as exceptional as they are.”
Looking Ahead
When asked about the next decade, Shannon is clear about her ambitions. “I want to make award-winning wines.”
From a curious student in Stellenbosch to an internationally experienced Assistant Winemaker at Groot Constantia and now a WineLand 30 Under 30 ambassador, Shannon Jacobs represents the talent, ambition, and passion shaping the future of South African wine. Her journey is proof that the future of South African wine is in very capable hands.
Enjoy some of South Africa’s most celebrated wines at Groot Constantia, where heritage and craftsmanship come together in every bottle. Stay connected on Facebook and Instagram @GrootConstantia, and visit www.grootconstantia.co.za to explore more.
