Stephen Swanepoel during a Q&A session at Kokomo Private Island.

Stephen Swanepoel brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and global experience to his role as the resident sommelier at Kokomo Private Island. With a career that has taken him to some of the world’s finest establishments, Stephen has developed a refined palate and a deep understanding of the stories behind every bottle he presents. At Kokomo, he curates exceptional wine experiences tailored to each guest’s tastes—whether it’s a private tasting, a perfectly paired dinner, or a rare vintage from the island’s cellar. In this quick-fire Q&A, Stephen shares insights into his world of wine, his personal favourites, and what makes the Kokomo Cellar truly special.

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Stephen Swanepoel, Kokomo Private Island’s resident sommelier.

How long have you been with Kokomo, and where were you prior?

I’ve been on the beautiful Kokomo Private Island for 18 months now. Before Kokomo, I spent almost 11 years in the USA, working in some of the finest restaurants and hotels in the country.

What led you into the world of wine?

It was during a trip to one of South Africa’s most historic vineyards that I fell in love with wine. The charm of the landscape, the winemaking process, and learning about the different varietals fascinated me. I became captivated by how wine can enhance flavours and elevate a meal.

What can guests expect from the Kokomo wine list?

Guests can expect a vast variety and exceptional quality. Our list features the exquisite finesse of Burgundy, the complexity of First Growth Bordeaux, and food-pairing dreams like Austrian Grüner Veltliner and German Riesling. We also showcase standout selections from the USA, Australia, and New Zealand.

What’s new on the list this season?

New this season are some exceptional South African wines from a boutique vineyard that’s very close to my heart. It took almost 10 months of work to get them here, but they’re already turning heads with our guests.

What’s your philosophy when it comes to pairing?

For me, the most important thing is to listen. Understanding what styles of wine a guest enjoys—and equally, the ones they don’t particularly care for—can be invaluable. That insight allows me to craft a truly personal and memorable pairing experience.

FURTHER READING: For those interested in exploring this topic further, additional resources and in-depth materials are provided below when available; otherwise, no further reading is included at this time.:

REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.

FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.