On the eve of the South Africa Wine Summit, reports indicate that the 2024 harvest season has been a journey defined by meticulous planning and the adaptability of wine producers in response to diverse climatic challenges and various disruptions.
According to South Africa Wine, harvesting season was a true test of the South African wine industry’s resilience. “Despite facing diverse and demanding climatic events, from frost and heavy winter rainfall to floods and wind, the industry’s adaptability and nimbleness transformed this harvest into one of the most remarkable in recent memory,” South Africa Wine said in a statement.
A good run for wine despite climate
“With optimal ripening tempo, small berries and moderate, dry conditions during harvest, the stage is set for wines of unparalleled excellence to supply the domestic and more than 120 global markets,” they added.
Vinpro consultation services manager Dr Etienne Terblanche said excellent winter conditions in most wine-grape growing regions raised high expectations for the harvest.
“However, the most significant impact of the spring conditions was the prolonged wet soils which directly affected root systems and access to necessary plant reserves. The summer trend was markedly warmer and drier than the previous year, adding another layer of complexity to the harvest.
“One of the standout aspects of this season was the exceptional sanitary condition of the grapes – a rarity in rainy harvest seasons and a testament to the industry’s resilience and adaptability,” he said.
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Meanwhile, according to South African Waste Information System (SAWIS) the 2024 grape harvest yielded 1 099 051 tonnes from 87 848 hectares, a 7% decrease from 2023.
“The 2024 wine harvest, including juice and concentrate for non-alcoholic purposes, wine for brandy, and wine for distilling – is estimated to amount to 857.1 million litres, at a recovery of 780 litres per tonne of grapes,” South Africa Wine further said in its statement.
South Africa Wine chief executive officer Rico Basson said the 2023/2024 season may have presented its share of obstacles, but it has also showcased the resilience and determination of the South African wine industry.
“This industry stands resilient, with our wine stock now in equilibrium. Despite fluctuations in harvest yields and vineyard surface areas, we are primed and prepared to supply the world with exceptional quality and distinctive wines,” Basson expressed.
World-class wines on offer
“The South African wine industry is undergoing a strategic repositioning, shifting our focus to value growth. Through reinvestment for growth and collaborative strategies, we are forging a path to strengthen our industry and propel us towards a future of quality, innovation, and sustainability,” he said.
Siobhan Thompson, Wines of South Africa chief executive officer, added that the outstanding quality of the wines from the 2024 harvest showcases South Africa’s unwavering commitment to spotlighting its world-class offerings.
“This achievement not only strengthens our foothold in the global market but also enhances our continuous efforts to seize a larger value share of export markets,” Thompson said.
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