Terrarium Restaurant’s Wine List Earns Global Recognition

Terrarium, the edgy fine dining restaurant at the Queen Victoria Hotel by Newmark Hotels & Reserves in Cape Town, has been nominated for Best International Newcomer Wine List 2025 by Star Wine List — the global awards platform recognising outstanding wine programmes in hospitality. Terrarium is one of only two South African establishments named among this year’s international finalists.

The nomination recognises the wine list curated by Newmark Group Sommelier Marlvin Gwese, featuring a considered selection of small, bespoke producers, Cape Winemakers Guild auction wines, and wines chosen for their character and sense of place. The list is carefully paired to complement Chef Patron Chris Erasmus’ menus, which focus on bold, seasonal flavours and locally foraged ingredients.

“Our aim is always to offer guests an outstanding beverage experience,” says Gwese. “For the Terrarium wine list to be recognised among some of the best in the world is a pure honour.”

Terrarium’s wine selections are closely informed by the restaurant’s focus on foraged ingredients such as wild mushrooms and coastal herbs.

“Foraged ingredients tend to be delicate, earthy, resinous, or floral,” explains Gwese. “These flavours often call for structured and full-bodied white wines, or mineral-driven reds that bring harmony to the plate.”

Looking ahead, Gwese and the Terrarium team are expanding their Cape Winemakers Guild collection and sourcing exclusive releases to further enrich the wine experience.

In addition to overseeing Terrarium’s wine programme, Marlvin Gwese leads wine curation across Newmark Hotels & Reserves’ broader portfolio. This includes developing a vintage cellar project, aimed at cellaring selected South African wines to offer matured vintages to guests in future years.

“Building a vintage collection takes time, but it allows us to offer rare and exceptional wines with maturity and character — something we are excited to share with our guests,” says Gwese.

Neil Markovitz, CEO of Newmark Hotels & Reserves, adds: “This nomination is a testament to the creativity and passion within our teams. At Newmark, we believe that every property should tell its own story — and Terrarium’s recognition reflects how authenticity, care, and bold ideas can resonate on a global stage.”

Terrarium’s nomination highlights a confident new voice in South African fine dining — where bold, seasonal cuisine meets a wine list crafted with care, depth, and a respect for place.

Winners of the Star Wine List of the Year International Open 2025 will be announced on 22 April 2025 during an online global awards ceremony.

For the full list of finalists, visit Star Wine List.