SOUTH AFRICAN WINE INDUSTRY CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL HONOURS
The South African wine industry has recently achieved two significant milestones on the international stage, showcasing the country’s growing influence and expertise in the global wine sector. In a historic moment, Yvette van der Merwe, Executive Manager of South Africa Wine Industry Information and Systems (SAWIS), has been appointed President
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF WINEMAKING: Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme
At South Africa Wine, we recognise that the future of our industry is as much about people as it is about producing excellent wine. Our involvement in the Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG) Protégé Programme reflects this belief as we invest significantly in young winemakers’ growth and career development. In 2024,
CHESTER CAPTURES HEARTS WITH HIS VOICE AT AGRI’S GOT TALENT FINAL
Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel” filled the air at Dawn Mountains, Simondium, as Chester Fisch claimed victory at Agri’s Got Talent 2024 (AGT) on October 11th. Chester’s performance, complete with powerful vocals, dance moves, and undeniable charisma, captured the hearts of the audience and judges alike, making
New study to revolutionise grapevine leafroll identification using artificial intelligence
Stellenbosch University researchers are harnessing artificial intelligence to streamline the identification of grapevine leafroll disease, a significant threat to South Africa’s wine industry. A groundbreaking research project led by Prof Lizel Mostert at the Department of Plant Pathology, Stellenbosch University, is set to change how vineyard managers and workers identify
Fermentation temperature and sustainable winemaking
Over the years, winemakers have adopted a variety of commercially available microorganisms to control different aspects of fermentation. This has allowed for more consistent and manageable results, but as the wine industry evolves, new challenges and opportunities emerge. Today, consumer demand for sustainability is pushing winemakers to find ways to
A potentially different approach to combat grapevine viral diseases
RNA interference (RNAi) is a natural process that helps plants and other organisms defend against viruses. It is activated when the plant detects double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) from the virus. Scientists can also create synthetic dsRNA and apply it to plants, where it enters the plant’s system and triggers this defence
CULTIVATING DIVERSITY IN A GLASS: VUSI DALICUBA’S JOURNEY
Vusi Dalicuba is adding new award-winning wine notes as a young, black winemaker in South Africa, claiming the VinLog Merlot Trophy at the 2024 Michelangelo International Wine and Spirits Awards for his 2022 Vergenoegd Löw Amalie Merlot. Vusi’s journey from a curious youth in Kayamandi, stealing grapes from neighbouring vineyards,
IN TRIBUTE: REST PEACEFULLY MAPASEKA (MAPS) LITABE
The South African wine industry mourns the loss of one of its brightest lights, Mapaseka “Maps” Litabe. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of many. Still, her legacy as a social influencer, a passionate advocate for wine, and a force for transformation and inclusivity in the industry
SADC-EU ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP: A BOOST FOR SOUTH AFRICA’S WINE INDUSTRY
The Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the European Union (EU), which was first implemented in 2016, continues to offer significant advantages to South Africa’s wine industry. By reducing tariffs and improving access to the EU market, the EPA has enabled South Africa to
ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT BETWEEN SA & EU
What is the history of the Economic Partnership Agreement between South Africa and the EU? The European Union (EU) and South Africa have a trade agreement relating to wine and spirits that forms part of a broader trade relationship between the two regions. The Agreement on Trade, Development and Cooperation
SEARCH TAGS
Why young talent matters in the South African wine industry
The 30 Under 30 class of 2026 showed that there is no shortage of talent in South African wine. The task now is to continue creating an environment where capable people can grow, contribute and build long careers in the industry.
Confronting climate change (CCC) benchmark report 2025
CCC Benchmark Report 2025 Confronting Climate Change (CCC) is a carbon footprinting initiative developed to support fruit and wine organisations by identifying and responding to the risks and opportunities associated with carbon emissions. The CCC online carbon calculator constantly evolves to keep up with the ever-changing carbon context. The 2025
UNDERSTANDING ESG AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN THE WINE INDUSTRY
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) is a comprehensive framework that helps organisations measure and communicate their sustainability and ethical impact.
PEOPLE WITH PURPOSE
You might know Aware.org as the organisation behind harm reduction in the alcohol industry.
SHAPING GLOBAL WINE POLICY
This year’s meetings emphasised committee work plans (economic, environmental and social sustainability), ensuring FIVS effectively advocates for the global wine industry.
South African Wine exports: trends, insights & opportunities
The South African wine export sector demonstrated resilience in 2024, achieving a 4% year-on-year increase in value to US$562 million despite navigating a contracting global wine market.
Cheers to Agri-Worker Excellence
As the cellar foreman at Kanonkop Wine Estate, his journey is of perseverance, skill, and a huge love for his craft. On Thursday, 6 February 2025, his contributions were recognised during the annual Wine Harvest Commemorative Event at Groot Constantia, where he became the first-ever recipient of the Wine Agri-Worker Award
CHANGE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
The South African wine industry is embarking on a diversity journey that redefines its role in the global wine economy through strategic partnerships and a sharpened focus on social sustainability.
Confronting climate change (CCC) benchmark report 2024
CCC Benchmark Report 2024 Confronting Climate Change (CCC) is a carbon footprinting initiative developed to support fruit and wine organisations by identifying and responding to the risks and opportunities associated with carbon emissions. The CCC online carbon calculator constantly evolves to keep up with the ever-changing carbon context. The 2024
The Confronting Climate Change initiative
In an era where climate change is no longer just a looming threat but a pressing reality, industries worldwide seek ways to mitigate their carbon footprint. Among these sectors, the fruit and wine industries stand out for their significant environmental impact. However, with the introduction of the Confronting Climate Change
