Damien Joubert-Winn, Delaire Graff Estate

Title: Head of Marketing and PR    
Location: Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa

Your Background in Wine:
My journey in the wine industry began 22 years ago in the UK, navigating the world of composite wholesale before specializing as my passion shifted towards the finer side of things – luxury wines. The journey led me to South Africa 7 years ago, where I've immersed myself in the country's exceptional vintages. It's been a rewarding experience.        

What are the top three challenges to maintaining your well-being?
In the past, my relentless pursuit of excellence, the constant juggling of work and life, and my deep desire for compassionate leadership all contributed to a point where I needed prescribed medication to manage my well-being. Since then, I've prioritized discovering natural ways to achieve balance. This journey of self-care has become fundamental in creating a more sustainable and fulfilling way of life.    

What are 3 things you do (or try to do) to maintain your well-being?
To maintain my well-being, I've embraced a holistic approach. Each day ends with a yoga practice, grounding me and fostering inner peace. I also find meditation incredibly powerful, focusing on gratitude and setting intentions that guide my day. Finally, I make sure to nurture my passions outside of work. Whether it's exploring the freedom of motorcycling, getting lost in art, diving into a good book, or simply enjoying some exercise, these activities nourish my spirit and prevent burnout.                 

What other beverages do you drink when you're not drinking alcohol?
I enjoy some non-alcohol gins, such as Musgrave Gin and Seedlip, I drink a lot of water and juices or shakes... if I'm out and designated driver I will have a Rock Shandy with tonic- tonic, soda, lime, bitters.    

What inspires you on your journey in the beverage industry?
Every new vintage is like a puzzle waiting to be solved. Mother Nature throws us a curveball each year. It's a constant dance between anticipation – what will this year bring? – and then the thrill (and sometimes frustration!) of working with what the year provides.    

What would people be surprised to know about you?
Believe it or not, before I delved into the world of luxury wines, I actually used to dance and choreograph to keep the wolves at bay! It all started in the UK in a 70s group dancing in clubs up and down the country, until a hamstring injury in the late 90s halted everything, when I moved to choreography.

What are you most excited about?
I have just booked to fulfill the 200hrs Yoga Alliance Instructor course (Ashtanga), so I am looking forward to deepening my practice.

What are you listening to?
Singing to Ben Böhmer, and dancing to Monolink - this guy vibrates on the same frequency as me.

What's your weirdest wellness hack?
1 full lemon, 1 teaspoon honey, 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar - it’s great for metabolism, digestion, cleansing and detoxing - take it first thing in the morning. Also i’m a massive advocate for binaural hacking, listening to music which promotes sound healing.

What is a quote that you love?
“A superstar doesn't just use the spotlight for themselves” - Sasha Velour.            

You can connect with Damien on Instagram at @Vineptias