The 23rd Edition of the Absa
Champagne in Africa Festival
returns in 2025, Now Elevated
with a National Expansion”

The festival will expand its footprint for the first time with a second edition in the Western Cape at the Norval Arts Foundation, Tokai, Cape Town on Saturday, 22 November 2025, marking a new era in its legacy of refinement, storytelling, and sensory excellence.

As title sponsor, Absa once again invites discerning guests, collectors, and lovers of refined experiences to step into a world where French heritage meets African artistry.

“The Absa Champagne in Africa Festival is more than a luxury experience, it’s a platform that honours craft, culture, and the stories that shape who we are,” says Sydney Mbhele, Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer at Absa Group. “This year’s expansion reflects the demand for experiences that bring people together in ways that are meaningful, elegant and unforgettable.”

Curated in partnership with the Ambassadeur Dignitaire of L’Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne, Shaun Anderson, the festival remains the largest dedicated authentic French champagne showcase on the continent, with over 40 distinguished houses represented, from legendary maisons to rare and boutique producers.

2025 will introduce a new dimension to the festival experience with an exclusive fashion moment headlined by globally acclaimed designer Rich Mnisi, whose work has redefined contemporary African luxury.

“Champagne is a language of celebration, and fashion is a language of identity,” says Rich Mnisi. “Bringing the two together is a way of honouring African excellence in a global conversation. I’m excited to create something that feels timeless, modern, and unapologetically ours.”

A world-class champagne experience:
Taste, compare and discover iconic and limited-release cuvées from more than 50 authentic French champagne houses.

A premium culinary journey:
An expertly curated gastronomic pairing menu elevates the champagne tasting experience, designed to reflect the artistry behind each pour.

Chef Wandile’s Champagne & Canapé Experience, Exclusive to 14 November:
Celebrated culinary artist Chef Wandile Mabaso will present an exclusive canapé pairing that introduces guests to his personal authentic French champagne selection, a rare opportunity to taste, learn and experience champagne through the lens of modern African gastronomy.

A Rich Mnisi runway moment:
An exclusive fashion showcase at the Johannesburg edition, created for this year’s festival, a fusion of authentic French champagne culture and contemporary African design.

Immersive luxury culture:
Live music, art, fashion, and refined hospitality in a setting designed to honour elegance and “joie de vivre.”

Event Details

Johannesburg
Location: Summer Place, Sandton
Date: Friday, 14 November 2025

Western Cape Edition – New for 2025
Location: Norval Arts Foundation, Tokai, Cape Town
Date: Saturday, 22 November 2025

Tickets:

R2250 per person. Ticketing via Quicket

Absa Rewards Special Offer:

For the duration of the Absa Champagne in Africa Festival, Absa Rewards members can enjoy up to 30% in real cash back on authentic French Champagne purchases, adding even more value to your experience of this luxurious celebration.

Now in its 23rd year, the Absa Champagne in Africa Festival continues to evolve from a champagne tasting event into a cultural moment rooted in excellence, connection, and shared celebration.

“Every glass poured is also a story shared,” adds Mbhele. “This festival is a reminder that luxury is not just what we consume, but what we create together, in conversations, in culture, and in the moments that stay with us.”

As part of Absa’s commitment to sustainability, guests are encouraged to keep the  champagne corks used during the festival. These corks will form part of a sustainability project Absa is supporting, helping give new life to materials that would otherwise go to waste. Simply collect and store them in a small bag or box. Details on collection points will be shared soon.

Thank you for supporting this simple yet impactful initiative, and for being part of the Absa Champagne in Africa story.

Stay connected and share your experience using #AbsaChampagneInAfrica

Follow us on Instagram: @absa.africa

Raise a glass. Honour the craft. Celebrate the story.