Be the best host this summer with Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane and The Macallan

Over the last few years, The Macallan has globally celebrated local mastery including fashion designers, stylists, advocates, collectors, etc. This year, in South Africa, The Macallan is celebrating some of our own home-grown masters from various fields in the South African Macallan Master Series.

When it comes to being a flawless chef and host, few men fit the bill better than Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane. Selected as The Macallan’s Master of Hosting, here are his top tips on easy entertaining this summer.

GQ: Where will we find you this summer?

Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane: I’m likely to be spending a lot of time in Cape Town and at our farm in the Bot River Valley.

GQ: When do you most enjoy whisky at home?

TM: I most enjoy a whisky when it’s very late and it’s quiet. I’m usually reading, writing and thinking. It’s these rare moments when I have time to reflect on the day’s events that I like to settle in with a great spirit.

GQ: Do you have any conversation pieces in your home?

TM: Books, magazines, some of my paintings and of course the amazing aroma in the kitchen.

GQ: How do you make a good first impression?

TM: I have to look and smell good, meet you at the door, take your coat, make you comfortable and offer you a drink. Warm and welcoming.

GQ: Why is The Macallan such an all-rounder to serve to guests you’re entertaining?

TM: The Macallan is a beautiful story with a fascinating journey, which really reminds you of the exceptional quality of the whisky. Stories are very key when entertaining and I have plenty of them.

GQ: Do you have any advice on creating a seating plan for a dinner party?

TM: No, you’ve already picked your crowd. Let people sit where they want and then lead them with the conversation.

GQ: What kind of playlist do you entertain to?

TM: The music is a mix of lounge, acid jazz and old-school R&B.

GQ: Pick-up lines: should they be retired?

TM: Definitely no pick-up lines.

GQ: How do you facilitate social situations and introductions between your guests?

TM: I let people know how I know someone and seamlessly get them to link up.

GQ: What are qualities and awarenesses of a master host?

TM: The details of your environment and never neglecting a single guest.