South Africa’s treasure-trove of wine making possibilities comes from a varied terroir, influenced by mountains, oceans, wind, diurnal temperature variation, rainfall and sunshine hours. For wine farmers even small changes in climate can have enormous implications for successful grape growing. South Africa’s climatic challenges have been well documented in recent years, most significantly the three-year drought that resulted in lost vineyards. How is the industry adapting to climate change, what challenges lie ahead and what tools are being used to face them?

The South African wine industry is often described as the most exciting and dynamic wine region in the world but how is it to grow into the most progressive and diverse? Maintaining high standards of inclusion and integrity are critical to the future of South Africa and ethical credentials are increasingly vital to global success. Meaningful transformation through education, skills development and creating opportunity for people of all backgrounds is core to this vision. Today we discuss the impact of mentorship, internships, apprenticeships and supported learning to empower both individuals and communities.

Winemaking in South Africa has evolved immeasurably since the mid-1990s when the country opened up to the international wine scene. Winemakers began flying around the world and absorbing information to apply back at home. Over the years South Africa has cemented its own identity as a wine producing nation and got under the skin of the stark regionality the winelands offer. From flagship Chenin Blanc to New Wave Pinotage, elegant Stellenbosch Cabernets, cool climate Sauvignons, Swartland blends of anything and everything, world class Syrah, old vine Semillon, age-worthy Chardonnay – the list goes on. Where will South Africa go next? Check-in with some of the countries most respected winemakers to get the latest trends and news on how 2021 is shaping up.