The Cape Wine Academy (CWA) has announced the appointment of Kristina Beuthner as its principal, replacing Marilyn Cooper who is retiring in December 2013 after 15 years' service to the organisation.

Cooper, CEO for the past 6 years, has achieved many milestones during her tenure, including 100,000 students enrolled for CWA courses, and the launch and organising of the Soweto Wine Festival, South Africa's first and arguably most successful township wine festival, now in its 10th year.

Beuthner’s wine experience and education are highly suitable to her new position. Currently she judges for the International Wine & Spirit Competition London (IWSC); is the northern manager for the Institute of Cape Wine Masters (ICWM); lectures for the CWA; presents tastings for companies and wine clubs; is a regular contributor to www.wine.co.za; and wine consultant to management at the South Africa-German Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Beuthner’s past employment ranges from consulting to Strandveld Vineyards and Vergenoegd Wine Estate to running a small wine and gifts export firm. She also owned a wine distribution company for 5 years, importing and distributing German and Italian wines.

Academically, Beuthner is a Cape Wine Master; has a wine diploma from the CWA; and holds a double diploma in Business Administration.

She is fluent in German, English, Spanish and French, and speaks some Afrikaans and Japanese.