Trevor Nyakane, a prop for the South African rugby team, the Springboks, has ventured into the wine industry with his friends and teammates Ox Nche and Bongi Mbonambi. They co-founded Bomalumz Wines, a business that was launched in May 2025. The name "Bomalumz" originates from a Sotho and Tswana phrase, "bo malume," meaning "the uncles," which was inspired by an emotional moment on the pitch after South Africa's 2023 Rugby World Cup victory.
The trio partnered with Van Loveren Family Vineyards in Robertson Valley to produce their wines. During the 2025 harvest, Nyakane, Nche, and Mbonambi were personally involved in the process, working among the vines, driving tractors, and participating in the picking process. Each player has a defined role in the business, with Nche overseeing logistics and operations, Mbonambi handling general oversight, and Nyakane leading on launches, activations, and content creation.
Bomalumz Wines launched with three initial products, each tied to one of the players. Nyakane fronts the Olé Olé Olé Rosé, a Moscato Rosé, while Nche's offering is Dark Arts, a Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend, and Mbonambi's Kantlyn is a Sauvignon Blanc. The wines are a result of the players' passion for the industry and their desire to create a lifestyle brand grounded in their bond as teammates.
This is not Nyakane's first venture into the drinks industry. In 2021, he launched Nyakane Gin, a project that began during lockdown and grew from a personal hobby into a commercial product. The gin features botanical notes including lime, jasmine, chamomile, sandalwood, and leather. The experience and success of Nyakane Gin likely contributed to the development of Bomalumz Wines.
Bomalumz has also collaborated with Bootlegger Coffee to produce a limited edition All African Blend, crafted from Tanzanian and Ethiopian Arabica beans. The partners are reportedly exploring further possibilities, including a non-alcoholic range and additional coffee products. Nyakane has also floated the idea of a sparkling wine as a potential next step for the brand.
For Nyakane, Nche, and Mbonambi, Bomalumz represents something larger than a commercial side project. They are building a lifestyle brand grounded in the same bond that helped them win back-to-back World Cups, with ambitions to ensure it outlasts their playing careers by many years. The brand is an extension of their friendship and teamwork.
The launch of Bomalumz Wines marks a new chapter in the lives of the three Springboks, as they transition from their rugby careers to entrepreneurship. With their passion and dedication, they aim to make Bomalumz a successful and sustainable business that reflects their values and camaraderie.
Key points
- Bomalumz Wines was co-founded by Trevor Nyakane, Ox Nche, and Bongi Mbonambi after their 2023 Rugby World Cup triumph.
- The trio partnered with Van Loveren Family Vineyards in Robertson Valley to produce their wines.
- Bomalumz launched with three initial wines and has plans for further product expansions, including a potential sparkling wine range.
