Sommelier • Winemaker • Author • Educator • Strategic Advisor to the Wine, Hospitality and Luxury Industries
He is the most travelled sommelier and winemaker therefore nicknamed the “flying sommelier” (52 harvests and counting)
Biography:
Get the Best Sommelier of South Africa 2023 “flying” to your service
Jean Vincent Ridon is the most capped sommelier in Africa; let him help you in your wine journey.
Born in France, he relocated to South Africa in 1996 to chase his dreams in the world of wine. Since then, he has evolved into a versatile wine personality, an acclaimed wine producer, a respected figure in the wine industry, a renowned author, and a globally influential sommelier.
Based in Cape Town but frequently jet-setting around the world to share his philosophy on food and wine, JV is involved in a myriad of endeavors. From educating aspiring African sommeliers and empowering the next generation of hospitality and wine leaders to guiding many on their gastronomic and oenophilic journeys, JV generously imparts his passion and expertise to those who seek to explore the realm of indulgence.
Now Helping hotels, restaurants, wine estates and beverage brands improve service standards, profitability and guest experiences across Africa and beyond.
“My mission is simple: to help hospitality businesses sell more, serve better, and create memorable experiences for their guests.”
What the press says about JV here
WINE & LUXURY EXPERIENCES:
Discover exceptional wine experiences designed for private clients, collectors, luxury travellers, and corporate groups. From bespoke wine tastings and private wine tours to exclusive wine dinners and cellar curation, Flying Sommelier creates memorable experiences centered on the world of fine wine, gastronomy, and hospitality. Whether you seek an intimate tasting, a luxury event, or expert guidance in building your wine collection, each experience is tailored to your interests and expectations.
For Private Wine Dinners and Luxury Wine Experiences click here
For Corporate Activation, Team Building and Wine Dinners click here
For the Passion for Pairing Book, the Blind Ambition movie and Corporate Gifts click here
BUSINESS & STRATEGIC ADVISORY:
Helping hospitality businesses, luxury hotels, restaurants, wine estates, and beverage companies improve performance, service standards, and profitability. Drawing on international experience in hospitality operations, beverage management, guest experience, and staff development. Flying Sommelier provides practical solutions that enhance service excellence, strengthen brand positioning, and create sustainable growth.
For Hospitality Audits, Guest Experience Assessments, Service Excellence Programmes, Staff Development, Beverage Programme Reviews, Wine List Optimisation, SOP Development and Management Coaching click here
STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE:
Helping hospitality businesses, luxury hotels, restaurants, wine estates, and beverage companies improve performance, service standards, and profitability. Drawing on international experience in hospitality operations, beverage management, guest experience, and staff development. Flying Sommelier provides practical solutions that enhance service excellence, strengthen brand positioning, and create sustainable growth.
For Partnership Development, International Introductions, Distribution Partnerships, Market Entry Support, Investment Facilitation, Strategic Alliances and Business Development click here
