Bomalumz: The wine brand uncorking brotherhood and culture
What started as a post-match hug between three Springboks, Ox Nché, Trevor Nyakane and Bongi Mbonambi, has grown into one of the freshest lifestyle brands in South African wine. That now-iconic photo captured more than just a moment; it captured a feeling, one of unity, brotherhood and shared joy. When fans began referring to them as Bo Malume (“the uncles”), it stuck. And from that spirit of community and celebration, Bomalumz was born.
From the Field to the Vineyard
For Ox, Trevor and Bongi, wine wasn’t a random business decision; it was a natural extension of who they are.
“Wine felt like the perfect fit,” they say. “It’s about connection, celebration and culture, the same values we hold close.”
Their journey from idea to shelf was swift but deeply hands-on. With guidance and partnership from the renowned Van Loveren winery in Robertson, the trio joined the 2025 harvest, sampled blends and gave creative input on bottle design and taste. Within months, Bomalumz became a reality: proudly South African, refreshingly approachable and unmistakably authentic.
The Personality Behind the Pour
The Bomalumz name; drawn from Sesotho slang for “the uncles” embodies energy, flair and a little mischief. Each of the players’ personalities is captured in the wine:
- Trevor’s “Ole Ole Ole Rosé” is light, celebratory and full of joy.
- Bongi’s “Kantlyn Sauvignon Blanc” is crisp and focused, named after the rugby lineout throw.
- Ox’s “Dark Arts Red Blend” offers bold depth and structure, much like the unseen grind of the scrum.
Whether around a braai or a dinner table, Bomalumz wines are designed to invite connection, spark conversation and honour the good times.
Bridging Wine, Culture and Identity
The players admit they were surprised by how welcoming the wine industry was and how personal the process became.
“It reminded us that there’s space in wine for everyone, especially when you bring heart.”
With mentorship from Van Loveren, the three Boks were involved at every step: from grape selection to final tasting notes.
They’re also intentional about representation.
“We didn’t see many wine brands that looked or felt like us. So, we built one,” they say.
Their vision for Bomalumz goes beyond business; it’s about cultural ownership, storytelling and shifting the perception of who wine is for.
Beyond the Bottle: Coffee Brewing Next
With the wine brand successfully launched, the trio is now venturing into coffee, adding another layer to the Bomalumz lifestyle. Partnering with Folk Coffee, their artisanal brews are now available nationwide. The goal? To offer the same sense of connection and warmth, just earlier in the day.
“Whether it’s wine or coffee, we want people to feel like they’re part of something. It’s not about trends; it’s about taste, tradition and togetherness,” says Bongi.
Where to Buy & What’s Next
For now, Bomalumz wines are available exclusively at Makro and select restaurants, with plans to expand into more retail and hospitality venues soon. Their coffee is available countrywide via Folk Coffee, with more partnerships on the horizon. Special editions, tasting events and new blends are also in the pipeline; promising an evolving brand experience that stays proudly local and people-first.
And as for running a business while playing elite rugby? The answer is simple: teamwork.
“We’ve gone to war together on the field, so handling a debate over wine notes is nothing,” they laugh.
With trust and passion guiding them, the Bomalumz journey is just getting started; one sip (or cup) at a time.
- Follow Bomalumz on social media for drops and events.
- Wine now available at Makro.
- Coffee available online via Folk Coffee.
- Visit the Bomalumz website for more information.
