As Échanson of the Bailliage of South Africa, Nell-Marié le Roux brings exceptional wine knowledge, deep industry relationships and a true passion for the art of pairing to the 7th Annual International OMGD Grand Chapitre.

With more than 21 years in the South African wine industry, Nell-Marié has built lasting relationships with producers, restaurateurs, hoteliers, chefs and wine enthusiasts. In 2010, she founded NLR-WINES, a company dedicated to connecting exceptional wineries with the hospitality industry through personalised sales, marketing, distribution and wine consultancy.

She commented, “I founded NLR Wines in 2010 to bring the finest selection of South Africa's wines to my clients. I assist in wine brand development - helping restaurateurs to sell more wine - and I seek to grow the distribution area for NLR Wines' listed estates. My friends and my wine buyers are not influenced by me in their brand choices but rather encouraged simply to enjoy what they are drinking!”

For the Grand Chapitre, Nell-Marié is responsible for ensuring that guests experience wines of genuine distinction. Her role includes guiding the wine farm relationships, curating meaningful wine experiences and ensuring that guests are introduced to special selections, including Vinoteque wines, rather than simply the more familiar or run-of-the-mill offerings.

Her qualifications include WSET Levels 1 and 2, as well as the Michael Fridjhon Wine Judging Course, strengthening her ability to evaluate, curate and present wines with both technical understanding and practical insight.

One of Nell-Marié’s greatest passions is food and wine pairing. Working closely with Craig Cormack on the menus, she will help create balance between each dish and glass, ensuring that the Grand Chapitre celebrates not only South Africa’s remarkable wines, but also the harmony between cuisine, hospitality and fellowship.

Nell-Marié observed, “Was it the quote by Galileo that wine is sunlight, held together by water or was it my first discovery of wine, sipping that Cabernet Sauvignon when the penny dropped? Nonetheless, I realised that day, that my life would take on a new meaning and it would evolve with wine. It didn’t come as a surprise when I decided my slogan would be... 'Passion differentiates excellence from the norm'."

For Nell-Marié, the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs represents culinary excellence, exceptional wines, tradition, friendship and a genuine appreciation for the art of the table. Her own guiding belief captures this perfectly: “Passion differentiates excellence from the norm.”

Llewellyn Buckley-Marais
Bailli Délégué
Member of the Conseil Magistral