Wine country, the way it should feel

The Woman Behind Wine Taxi

I grew up on the Cape Flats, where I saw more of alcohol’s harm than its magic — wine was the last thing I expected to fall in love with. That changed during my molecular biology degree at Stellenbosch University, where a single module on winemaking caught me completely off guard.

Since then I’ve worked cellars and tasting rooms across the Cape and a season in Napa, before joining Nederburg Wines in 2018, where I now head up the white wine team. It’s been a privilege to pick up a few industry awards along the way, though honestly, the joy has always been in the work itself.

Away from the cellar, I’m lucky to have a family who keeps me grounded, and a mother who remains my biggest mentor to this day. I hope to pass that on — especially to newcomers who, like me once, never expected wine to be part of their story. That’s really what Wine Taxi is about: taking the mystery and the nerves out of wine, and making it what it should be — social, welcoming and fun.

– Jamie Williams

From a lab bench to the cellar

A quick look at the road that led here — because the same care that goes into a good glass of wine goes into every Wine Taxi trip.

2014

Where it all began

I completed my BSc in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at Stellenbosch University, where a winemaking module first sparked my interest in the world of wine.

2015–2016

From lab to cellar

I began my journey in the cellar and laboratory at Die Bergkelder before spending a harvest season in Napa, California. That experience confirmed that winemaking was where I belonged.

2017–2018

Finding my style

I worked at Jordan Wine Estate and Koelenhof, learning from different winemakers, estates and ways of working. Each experience helped me develop my own approach to winemaking.

2018

A new chapter

By the end of 2018, I joined Nederburg, proud to become part of a wine estate with a legacy spanning more than two centuries.

2025

A milestone year

My Heritage Heroes The Anchor Man Old Vine Chenin Blanc earned 95 points and a gold medal at the Decanter Awards. I was also named runner-up winemaker in the 2025 iTOO Winemag Next Generation Awards.

I set out to find a cure for cancer. I ended up making something people reach for on a good day instead — and I wouldn't change a thing.

Jamie Williams · Founder & Host

Three valleys, endless excuses to return

Stellenbosch

Oak-lined streets and grand old estates — the beating heart of South African wine.

Paarl

Historic cellars beneath the granite domes, home to some of the country’s oldest names.

Franschhoek

The French Corner — fine wine, finer food, and the famous valley views.

Come along for the ride

See what’s on this month and save your seats or get in touch to plan something private.