South African wines took center stage at a vibrant, high-energy expo, where producers and enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the country's dynamic wine industry. Despite global challenges, the event underscored the unwavering vitality and international appeal of South African wine.
The show’s lead-up featured dedicated tastings that highlighted classic varietals, such as Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon—with a showcase spanning the distinguished 2015 vintage to current releases—alongside Chenin Blanc’s synergy with the Old Vine Project, and the ever-iconic Pinotage. These tastings emphasized just how deeply these varietals are rooted in South Africa’s winemaking tradition, while new and intriguing varietals continue to emerge, promising creative evolution for the industry.
A particularly inspiring focus was the ongoing buzz around the Old Vine Project—a uniquely South African initiative. South Africa is not only the only country to officially document vines over 35 years old and award the “Certified Heritage Vineyard” seal; it is also the world’s only nation able to identify and certify the precise age of its wine vines, thanks to a historical vineyard database dating back to 1900 and rigorous national certification protocols. This makes South Africa a global benchmark in vine traceability and authenticity—a powerful statement about dedication to terroir, sustainability, and heritage.
The expo also provided opportunities to meet legendary figures such as Ken Forrester (celebrated for Chenin), Beyers Truter (a pioneer of Pinotage), Pieter Ferreira (Cap Classique master), and Rosa Kruger (Old Vine advocate). Their energy and passion reflected the strong sense that South African wines are earning deserved recognition on the global stage.
At the Chenin Blanc and Old Vine Project joint showcase, held at Stellenrust Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. Here, Rosa Kruger, Founder of the Old Vine Project gives her opening speech after Tertius Boshof, Winemaker at Stellenrust gave his welcome speech, and before Ken Forrester, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Chenin Blanc Association gives his opening speech.
Regional diversity emerged as another highlight, with producers from Botriver, Olifantsberg, and Polkadraai showcasing expressions of place through authentic, characterful wines. There was also a noticeable surge of young winemakers, particularly women, stepping forward from South African wine schools—a shift that signals a promising, progressive future for the industry.
Winemakers repeatedly advocated for “allowing the grapes to express themselves,” marking a trend toward fresher, more elegant styles and minimal intervention in the cellar—a philosophy that is reshaping contemporary South African wine.
Looking ahead, producers are buzzing with anticipation about expansion into Southeast Asian markets, notably Singapore, recognizing its sophistication and evolving demand among wine drinkers.