Turning passion for wine into edutainment project
Liz Ogumbo is a Kenyan-born singer, model, fashion designer and author based in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and is scheduled to release her latest album at the end of this month – followed by the launch of her personal range of Afro wine accessories.
Describe your music style?
“The blues is definitely one of my basics. My style is also influenced by what we Kenyans call taarab, which is refreshingly and unbelievably soulful.
“And there is a swing and reggae influence in my music as well.
“If you think of Nina Simone and Etta ... it’s very classic and timeless.
“And of course, there is also the influence from my own Luhya tribe in my music.”
Greatest influence to your music?
“I grew up listening to hip-hop stars like Mos Def, Talib Kweli and a couple of other hip-hop heads. Because my music touches on several genres, I call it KenSoul (Kenyan Soul). And my first album was titled KenSoul.
How did your passion for wine come about?
“I was introduced to wine by my husband while we were dating in Kenya. I didn’t drink alcohol before then. Originally from one of the Caribbean islands and living in Cape Town, my husband asked me to join him here in SA and exposed me to wine and estates around the Cape winelands.
“I literally spent a year drinking wine and watching the sea and mountains in Cape Town. So I fell in love with the place and him.”
Tell us about the plans to launch your new wine accessory range.
“I am a fashion designer, but I also have lifestyle products that I have conceptualised. I have designed a wine accessory range because I feel, if you love wine, it is important to enjoy it in the right class with the right decant.
What other plans are in the pipeline?
“I am currently working on a series on wine where I interview people in the wine space and visit different wineries. The series will be televised via a YouTube channel. This is part of my plans to turn my passion into an edutainment project.
“My series will showcase wine, not only from SA but across the globe. I believe South African wine is tops.
Which is your favourite wine?
“I’d be lying if I said I have a favourite. I have tasted so many wines that I enjoy. However, the wine that has left a huge mark in my heart must be Holden Mans Cabernet Sauvignon 2010.”
Your favourite wine grape?
“I like red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon. I like something that is bold and full. Something that has a grand personality like myself, which is what Cab Sauv is all about.
Your favourite restaurant?
“I don’t have a particular favourite. SA has many fine restaurants, but my favourite place is my kitchen, where I can cook you a special meal consisting of curry served with chapatti and kale.
Your biggest extravagance?
“My shoe collection.”
Your motto?
“If you are doing something, do it properly, or go home rather than waste time. And, remember, life is too short to drink bad wine.”