MITIGATE CLIMATE CHANGE THROUGH ORGANIC FARMING
Leading organic wine producers have united to form Organic Wines South Africa (OWSA), marking a significant step toward sustainable viticulture in the region. We talked to newly appointed treasurer Johane Reyneke about embracing organic. Formally established on September 4th, 2024, the association brings together 11 founding members representing the country’s core
HOW AWARE.ORG IS SHAPING A RESPONSIBLE FUTURE
In an increasingly complex world where alcohol-related harm continues to challenge communities, Aware.org is making strides in building a safer, more responsible tomorrow. Through a combination of strategic partnerships, innovative programmes, and a focus on behavioural change, Aware.org is not only addressing the immediate impacts of alcohol misuse but also
Shiraz Aroma Wheel launch
South Africa’s first official Shiraz Aroma Wheel was launched at the 2024 Shiraz Technical Workshop at Allée Bleue Wine Estate. The Wheel results from a research collaboration between Stellenbosch University, South Africa Wine, and Shiraz SA, the association dedicated to promoting South African Shiraz wines. The Shiraz Aroma Wheel results
Leaning canopy experiment to better utilise favourable sunlight hours and minimise radiation
Researchers in Spain aimed to study different field strategies to help growers adapt to hot and arid climate conditions. VSP-trained vineyard canopy orientation relative to the sun path can be manipulated by slope aspect orientation (site selection) and row direction choice. A third possibility of manipulation might be an angled
Sugar levels in alcohol-free wines
The global wine industry faces significant challenges, including a decline in per capita consumption, particularly among young consumers who are reducing alcohol intake for health and wellness reasons. In response, wine producers increasingly focus on no- and low-alcohol (NOLO) wines. However, removing alcohol alters wine’s sensory qualities, requiring modifications to
BUILDING AWARENESS AND INSPIRING CHANGE
Since its inception, Aware.org has become important in driving positive change in South Africa’s approach to alcohol awareness and responsible consumption. With its strong foundation and strategic partnerships, Aware.org is well-positioned to make even greater strides in shaping a safer, healthier, and more responsible future for South Africa. Aware.org’s approach
CHALLENGES AFFECTING THE STATE OF AGRICULTURE IN SOUTH AFRICA
At the recent AgriSA Green Horizons Congress, AgriSA commemorated 120 years of South African agricultural leadership and, concurrently, 30 years of democracy, development and growth in agriculture. “This year’s congress represents a significant opportunity to reflect on the ability to invest in the food economy and agriculture’s role in sustaining
PINOTAGE’S FUTURE IS BRIGHT
In only three decades, Beyerskloof has established itself as one of the places to taste South Africa’s heritage varietal, Pinotage. Since 2006, Anri Truter has taken the reins as winemaker, building on his father’s legacy (Beyers Truter) while forging new paths for the estate. With a focus on innovation both
ENGAGING CONSUMERS IN THE MODERN WINE MARKET: DIGITAL RELATIONSHIPS POST-PANDEMIC
The wine market is experiencing substantial evolution as consumers increasingly engage with brands through digital avenues. Over the last few years, especially following the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, wine purchasing and engagement behaviours have transformed. We can explore how consumers interact with wine brands today and the roles
NINE LESSONS FOR THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
At the recent AgriSA Green Horizons Congress, held on 10 October at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, Prof. Nick Vink, Professor Emeritus from Stellenbosch University, provided an insightful analysis of the main influences shaping South African agriculture over the past 120 years. His address highlighted the sector’s evolution, influenced
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Are you giving your customers headaches?
Introduction Wine is a complex beverage that undergoes various transformations during the winemaking process. One of the most critical phases during red wine production is malolactic fermentation (MLF), where malic acid is converted into lactic acid by lactic acid bacteria (LAB). This process helps reduce acidity and significantly impacts wine
Methoxypyrazines in wine
If a wine seems “green”, “herbaceous”, or “vegetal”, aroma compounds called methoxypyrazines (MPs) could be responsible. MPs are particularly important due to their ubiquity in grapevines and their extremely low aroma thresholds. These low thresholds make MPs some of the most odor-active compounds found in wine. Occasionally, they can have
