Who are we?
What started as a hobby turned into a passion, concretised in a family company that specializes in South African products.
In 2009 Sebastian travels to the US to do an internship in Wine Science at the Ohio State University. He gains experience in a well-known winery in Michigan, Chateau Grand Traverse. When he returns, he's got the wine bug and leaves for South Africa where he gains 6 months experience with friends of his father Luc: at Muratie Wine Estate, the oldest and most charming wine estate in Stellenbosch.
Early 2011: Sebastian starts his studies Bachelor in Science - Viticulture and Oenology at Stellenbosch University. In the autumn of 2010, he started Elvama together with his father Luc Vannevel. Since then, Sebastian has successfully completed his studies and has completed his doctorate in Oenology. After her studies in Belgium, sister Margaux followed a Masters degree at the University of Stellenbosch in “Agricultural Economics and Management”. She then returned to Belgium at the end of 2015 and completes the team.
The portfolio has grown into a wide range of South African wines and exclusive South African products.
Het team
Luc
Luc has had a great passion for wine from an early age. In 2010 he combined that passion with his love for South Africa and founded Elvama - Your South African Experience. Thanks to his experience in the business world, Elvama has grown into a successful family business in 10 years.
Sebastian
Sebastian obtained his Bachelor in Science - Viticulture and Oenology from the University of Stellenbosch and has recently completed his PhD in Oenology. He produces The General's Gin and a small amount of his own wine in Stellenbosch. He'll start with the DipWSET diploma in 2021.
Margaux
Margaux returned to Belgium in 2015 after a master's degree at the University of Stellenbosch to strengthen the family business and has since trained her as a Sommelier at EVW. Together with Sebastian, she will start the DipWSET diploma in 2021.