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Diners Club Winemaker Awards 2024 Celebrating South Africa’s Top Vintners

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Diners Club Winemaker Awards 2024 Celebrating South Africa’s Top Vintners

Entries for the prestigious Diners Club Winemaker of the Year and Young Winemaker of the Year awards are open, and the clock is ticking towards the announcement of these sought-after honours at a gala ceremony in November 2024.

The Winemaker and Young Winemaker awards focus on quality and the recognition of excellence and are among the country’s most prestigious and most respected wine industry competitions. While most wine industry awards focus on winning wines, the Diners Club Winemaker and Young Winemaker of the Year awards celebrate the creators of the winning wines, honouring the skills and talents of the vintners.

The awards are presented to winemakers who produce a wine that the judging panel considers to be the best in the two specified categories for the annual competition. This year, the category for the 44th Winemaker of the Year award is Chenin Blanc, and Red Wine is the category for the 24th Young Winemaker of the Year award.

As in previous years, winemakers can be shortlisted for more than one submission. These awards are open to all in the South African wine industry at no cost, thus affording all winemakers an equal opportunity. The closing date for entries is Friday, 30 August 2024.
Diners Club introduced the Winemaker of the Year award to encourage local winemakers to raise the standard of wines produced in South Africa. The Young Winemaker of the Year award was established to encourage winemakers under the age of 30 to develop their skills, express their individuality, and add to the future prestige of South African wines internationally.

The finalists for both awards, to be announced in due course, will be invited to a black-tie gala dinner on Saturday, 23 November 2024, where the winners will be revealed and presented with their trophies. The winning Winemaker of the Year and the Young Winemaker of the Year receive a cash prize and an opportunity to visit any wine-producing region in the world – terms and conditions of the presenting sponsor apply.

Judging Underway for 2024 SA Young Wine Champions

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Judging Underway for 2024 SA Young Wine Champions

Judging of the young wines of the 2024 vintage year is well under way this week, with 1 387 entries (12% more than last year) competing for the top trophies, as well as gold, silver and bronze medals in the SA Young Wine Show – being held in the Johann Graue Hall at Nederburg in Paarl.

The SA Young Wines Show is one of the oldest wine competitions in the world, dating back to 1833 and is now in its 192nd year.

The Cape of Good Hope Agricultural Society – which established the marketing name Agri-Expo in 1996 – has over the years been actively involved with the SA Young Wine Show since 1833 as owner of this remarkable competition and maintains its commitment as patron until this very day. Agri-Expo has entrusted the SA National Wine Show Association (SANWSA) since its founding in 1976 as organiser with this impressive collection of gold and silver trophies which are annually awarded to the winning winemakers.

The young wines of 2024 that have been entered, are competing for 17 coveted trophies in the various classes, with only one of them to be crowned as this year’s overall champion wine, thereby to receive the sought-after General Smuts Trophy which has been at stake since 1952. At the same time, the Pietman Hugo Trophy will be awarded to the cellar scoring the highest total points for entries in five categories. Altogether 14 panels with 88 judges are privileged to identify the best young wines of this year.

The classes attracting the most entries this year for white wines were Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Dry White Wines, while under red wines, they were Other Red Cultivars, Red Blends, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage and Merlot.

Among the 17 competing categories for SA Champion glory for white wines, is Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Other White Cultivars, Dry White Blends, Off-dry White Wine and Noble Late Harvest. Among the red wines, trophies are awarded for best Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinotage, Shiraz, Other Red Cultivars and Dry Red Blends. The trophies in the fortified class comprise exceptional Cape Port Styles, Dessert Wine and Muscadel.

The comprehensive judging process holds good news for wine lovers in the sense that South Africa has once again yielded an outstanding wine crop. Winemakers agree that wines of particularly good quality were made this year, despite considerably varying climatic conditions during both the growing and harvest periods. Consumers can look forward to enjoying the 2024 vintage wines when bottled and reaching the market.

“Although we experienced a challenging harvest time, this year’s young wines show exceptional quality and this positive industry mood is also reflected in the increased entry of wines from all the areas,”: said SANWSA chairperson, Christo Pienaar.

In the past six years the Young Wine Show boasts major encouragement for the two main trophy winners. A partnership between the organisers and Porex SA – a prominent Paarl-based supplier of machinery and winemaking equipment to the industry – means that the two respective winners of the General Smuts and Pietman Hugo Trophies are sponsored for a trip to overseas wine countries.

The five financial partners who joined the Young Wines Show last year, are all well-known suppliers to the industry, namely Anchor Technology, Enartis, Laffort, Nexus and Standard Bank. Their representatives have all visited the week-long judging at Nederburg.

Said Bennie Howard, vice-chairperson of the SANWSA, “The generous support from all our partners in this remarkable South African wine show that benefits the whole industry, is an example of their client involvement. Thereby, they ensure a bright future for ‘the jewel of the wine industry’, as the SA Young Wine Show is fondly known.”

The awards function will be presented by Agri-Expo on Friday 23 August at Elsenburg Agricultural College, which has celebrated its 125-year anniversary at the end of 2023. The event will be preceded by a tasting of all the Gold medal winners of 2024.

Western Cape Leads in Conservation Agriculture, Hosts 9th World Congress

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Western Cape Leads in Conservation Agriculture, Hosts 9th World Congress

Yesterday, 22 July 2024, the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, officially opened the 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture in Cape Town.

Conservation agriculture is a farming system that promotes minimum soil disturbance, permanent soil cover, and plant species diversification (crop rotation).

It enhances biodiversity and natural biological processes above and below the ground surface, increasing water and nutrient use efficiency and improving and sustaining crop production.

Professor Johann Strauss, the chairperson of the local organising committee and the senior scientist responsible for Sustainable Cropping Systems Research

with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDOA) describes the Western Cape as the “Heartland of South African Conservation Agriculture.”

Professor Strauss added, “The Western Cape boasts the country’s highest adoption rate of conservation agriculture. Delegates will learn about the unique and international best practices in conservation farming and the uniquely South African conservation farming experience.”

During his opening address, Minister Meyer highlighted that conservation agriculture is a globally recognised management practice that effectively mitigates and supports adaptation to climate change. He further stated that conservation agriculture research in the Western Cape dates back to 1996.

Minister Meyer said, “Back then, the WCDOA started its long-term conservation agriculture trials, demonstrating the significant financial benefits of this practice.”

“Today, these trials are part of the Global Long-Term Experimental Network, based at Rothamsted in the UK, a testament to our efforts’ success and global recognition,” he continued.

Minister Meyer also thanked farmers who have adopted conservation agriculture.

Minister Meyer praised these farmers: “In the development of conservation agriculture locally, we must acknowledge and remember the role of the former grain farmer and pioneer Jack Human, who hails from the Southern Cape.”

“Today, our department continues to play a pioneering role in promoting the adoption of conservation agriculture as a best practice and one of the priority projects in its SmartAgri Plan”, added Minister Meyer.

The Western Cape Government’s (WCG) proactive stance has encouraged more farmers to adopt conservation agriculture, setting a precedent for other provinces and countries. Cereal-producing areas of the Western Cape have reached a 51% adoption rate of the complete conservation agriculture package.

According to Dr Ilse Trautmann, Deputy Director General of Agricultural Research and Regulatory Services at the department, the SmartAgri plan – the first provincial sector plan for agriculture in South Africa and the roadmap to climate change resilience in the Western Cape- is widely acknowledged and accepted.

Minister Meyer stressed, “The adoption of conservation agriculture benefits agriculture and the environment. South Africa must build a resilient agricultural sector in the face of climate change.”

The Congress ends on 24 July 2024 with a practical day at the WCDoA’s Langgewens research farm.

To learn more about the 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture, go to: https://wcca9.org/

Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce Amid Global Challenges

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Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce Amid Global Challenges

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is set to host its Southern Africa Conference at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town on 5 – 6 August 2024. This year’s conference promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry stakeholders, offering a platform to connect, discuss key challenges, and shape the future of the fresh produce sector in the region and globally.

The two-day event will kick off with an opening reception, followed by a series of sessions addressing critical topics such as the state of the industry, presented by IFPA’s Chief Membership Officer, Miriam Wolk. Discussions will delve into geopolitical issues, post-elections in South Africa and its key trade partners, exploring their implications for the fresh produce industry.

A highlight will be the examination of port privatisation and its impact on export processes and competitiveness.

Furthermore, a panel comprising major retailers and importers will share insights on market dynamics, consumer trends, and strategies for successful market penetration.

Jane Strijdom, IFPA Country Manager for Southern Africa, emphasized the conference’s role in fostering dialogue and setting priorities to better serve the industry’s interests in both domestic and international markets. The program also includes the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast, underlining the association’s commitment to inclusive industry growth and development.

South Africa Celebrates First Avocado Export to Japan

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South Africa Celebrates First Avocado Export to Japan

South Africa exported its first avocado container to Japan, following a mutual agreement signed earlier this year aimed at expanding trade between the two nations. This landmark event signifies a significant achievement for the South African avocado industry, highlighting its potential for growth and global reach.

The shipment, which departed from Durban, the largest city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, represents a new chapter for the region. KwaZulu-Natal, one of the emerging avocado regions in South Africa, has seen its industry expand due to the growing global demand for avocados. The successful export to Japan is a testament to the region’s rising prominence in the avocado market.

The ban on the export of Hass avocados from South Africa to Japan was lifted effective November 30, 2023. The new protocol for avocado shipment to Japan requires a cold treatment of 2°C for 19 days, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety. This stringent process was meticulously adhered to, paving the way for this historic export.

This year, the South African avocado industry has been fully focused on opening roads in the East. South Africa’s entry into the Japanese market is a crucial step in this direction, promising new opportunities and increased export volumes. Additionally, South Africa became the third African nation to export avocados to China after signing a deal at the BRICS summit. Earlier this year, South African avocados also arrived in India via airfreight, with sea shipments expected to follow.

Traditionally, South Africa’s avocado exports have primarily been directed to Europe, the Middle East, and other Southern African countries. The successful penetration into the Japanese market signals a promising diversification of export destinations, strengthening South Africa’s position in the global avocado industry.

This milestone not only underscores the South African avocado industry’s commitment to excellence but also enhances the country’s trade relations with Japan. As the industry continues to expand, further growth and new market opportunities are anticipated, promising a bright future for South African avocados on the global stage.

Swartlandskou Vier 90 Jaar van Landbou en Gemeenskapstrots in Moorreesburg

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Swartlandskou Vier 90 Jaar van Landbou en Gemeenskapstrots in Moorreesburg

In die hartjie van die Swartland vier die grootste landbouskou in die Wes- en Suid-Kaap vanjaar sy 90ste bestaansjaar met ‘n program vir die hele gesin. Swartlandskou Moorreesburg sal van Woensdag 4 tot Saterdag 7 September 2024 die beste uit dié geweste aan 20 000 besoekers bekendstel. Die skou, met Afgri as ankerborg, is bekend vir top perde, beeste, skape en pluimvee, asook ‘n masjienerie-uitstalling van R230 miljoen.

Swartlandskou Swartlandskou

Die ‘cool’ van landbou: Van 8-span waperde tot ‘n skaapskeer-nuutjie

Die skouprogram bars vanjaar uit sy nate met landbou- én leefstylaktiwiteite. Swartlandskou spog met die grootse vleisbeesskou in die Wes- en Suid-Kaap, met sowat 400 diere wat om gesogte titels meeding.  ‘n Kleinvee-nuutjie is die Swartlandskou Skeerkampioenskappe. Besoekers kan uitsien na die BKB & FNB Slaglamkompetisie, Merino-kampioenskappe, die SA Vleismerino Super 10-kampioenskappe en die OVK-Interrasuitstalling. Meer as 400 wa-perde sal ten toon gestel word met die 8-span waperde as ‘n hoogtepunt. Sowat 230 leerders sal aan die Streek Jeugskou deelneem en die Wes-Kaap Pluimveeklub sal vir ‘n pluimvee-tentoonstalling sorg.

Die musikante Jay, Chris Else, Viljoen Retief, Dodo Nyoka, Jan Rhaap en ander sal optree, terwyl die AFGRI-damesdag met Marciel Hopkins as gasspreker en ‘n landbou-oggend met Theo Vorster as gespreksleier interessante ervarings beloof. Die kleingoed kan uitsien na ‘n kulkunstenaar, ‘n dansskool, Lollos en ‘n speelpark met toesig.

Volgens die President Jacques Bester is Swartlandskou ‘n sukses danksy noue samewerking tussen die gemeenskap en besighede. “Kom ervaar plattelandse geselligheid en kom deel in die ‘cool’ van landbou,” nooi Bester.

Toegangskaartjies sal by Ticketpro en by die hekke beskikbaar wees.
Vir meer inligting, besoek www.swartlandskou.co.za

Engage with Nature: Conservation Talk and Guided Walk at Benguela Cove

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Engage with Nature: Conservation Talk and Guided Walk at Benguela Cove

Benguela Cove Wine Estate warmly invites the public to a special conservation event at their picturesque location on R43, Hermanus, on Friday, 23 August 2024, from 10:30 to 11:30 am. This engaging session, led by the Botanical Society of South Africa’s Plant Committee, aims to deepen community understanding and involvement in the conservation of the unique flora and fauna of the Western Cape.

At this complimentary event, Dr. Martina Treurnicht, the Conservation Manager, alongside Cherise Viljoen, a Master Horticulturist from Cherish Plants, will discuss the vital conservation efforts undertaken by the Society. They will also provide practical tips on employing climate-smart gardening techniques using indigenous plants to help maintain local biodiversity.

Benguela Cove

Following the conservation talk, guests have the option to participate in a guided nature walk, ideal for both adults and children. This walk is a perfect opportunity to explore the estate’s diverse ecosystems with expert guidance. For those wishing to extend their visit, a pre-bookable lunch at the estate’s Moody Lagoon restaurant is also available.

Guests will also get to enjoy a variety of tasters, with an indigenous plant theme, including tantalizing indigenous fruit jams and fynbos honey on fresh scones. Additionally, each attendee will receive a complimentary gift, adding a tangible keepsake to the educational experience.

With only 30 seats available, early reservations are strongly recommended to avoid disappointment. This event is set to be an enriching day for all plant lovers and conservation enthusiasts.

For more information visit www.benguelacove.co.za

Agri’s Got Talent 2024: Showcasing the Remarkable Skills of SA’s Agricultural Workers

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Agri’s Got Talent 2024: Showcasing the Remarkable Skills of SA’s Agricultural Workers

Agri’s Got Talent invite South African agricultural workers to showcase their exceptional talents and contributions to the agricultural sector.

More than just a singing competition, AGT aims to shine a spotlight on the immense talent within South Africa’s farming community while recognizing the vital role agricultural workers play in driving the sector forward. Over the past decade, AGT has defied stereotypes, revealing the boundless creativity and skill of farm workers.

Open to all South African farm workers in the deciduous fruit, citrus, and wine industries, AGT offers participants an unparalleled opportunity for personal and professional growth. The top 10 finalists will embark on a transformative journey during a week of intensive training in the picturesque Western Cape. Alongside expert voice and social media coaching, finalists will receive glamorous makeovers and indulge in self-care packages.

However, the true essence of AGT lies in its self-development workshops led by accredited social workers. These sessions are meticulously designed to boost confidence, enhance self-worth, and equip participants with essential soft skills such as conflict resolution, time management, and financial literacy –  tools that will serve them well in any future endeavour. Berries ZA is sponsoring this year’s self-development workshops.

Over the years, AGT has demonstrated significant value within the agricultural community:

  • Top Ten AGT participants contribute back to their communities, acting as role models and leaders through activities like starting music groups, training others, and performing locally.
  • Their presence on farms boosts morale and productivity while fostering a sense of unity among workers.
  • The visibility of Top Ten contestants enhances the agricultural brand and showcases talent within the industry.
  • AGT Top Ten serve as exceptional agricultural ambassadors, promoting the competition and industry wherever they go.
  • AGT seasons have brought together entire farming communities, fostering a sense of unity and pride as colleagues cheer on their peers.

AGT 2024 promises to be an extraordinary celebration of talent, unity, and empowerment within South Africa’s agricultural sector.

Entries for the 2024 Agri’s Got Talent close 16 August 2024. Songs can be performed in any genre or language, so whether you’re into pop, RnB, acoustic, rap, or classical. Contestants enter the competition by sending a sound clip or video of no longer than 3 minutes via WhatsApp to 082 372 1577 or email to [email protected]. For more details, visit www.agrisgottalent.com,  or  Contact Thea van Zyl at [email protected] or call 083 642 5342 for more information.

Employers are also welcome to manage the entry process for their workers. Feel free to record all interested employees and email us all their information.

Mixed Fortunes for Agriculture Amidst Rising Dam Levels in Overberg

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Mixed Fortunes for Agriculture Amidst Rising Dam Levels in Overberg

The Overberg region, a critical agricultural area in South Africa, is currently experiencing significant weather shifts. Rojeanne de Wet from Agri Western Cape notes that despite the much-needed precipitation, the recent heavy rains coupled with an unusually warm and dry June have presented mixed fortunes for local agriculture. Fruit growers, in particular, are feeling the heat as their crops struggle with the delayed onset of colder weather needed for dormancy—a crucial phase that ensures successful flowering and fruit production later on.

Impact on Fruit Production

Typically, fruit trees in Overberg require a cold winter to enter a dormant state, which primes them for robust flowering and fruiting in the following seasons. This year’s warmer June, however, has pushed back this schedule. Despite these challenges, there is a silver lining. The region’s robust irrigation infrastructure and the absence of stringent water restrictions are expected to cushion the fruit sector against potential declines in yield.

Challenges for Grain and Livestock Farmers

The situation is more dire for canola and grain farmers. Recent floods have not only hindered essential fieldwork, such as herbicide application, but have also affected the growth of wheat seedlings, which are particularly sensitive to excessive water and lack of sunlight. Livestock farmers are also under duress; the cold and wet conditions necessitate additional measures to protect vulnerable animals, especially lambs, from the harsh elements.

Water Storage: A Welcome Relief

On the brighter side, the increased rainfall has significantly boosted local dam levels, crucial for sustaining agricultural and human consumption needs through dryer months. Key water reservoirs like Theewaterskloof, De Bos, Eikenhof, and Buffeljagsrivier Dams are reporting near or overfull capacity, which spells good news for water security in the region.

While the heavy rainfall in Overberg presents immediate challenges, particularly for grain and livestock sectors, it also offers vital water resources that may prove beneficial in the longer term. With strategic management and continued investment in agricultural infrastructure, the region can hope to mitigate the adverse effects of erratic weather patterns. As the community navigates through these complex issues, the resilience and adaptability of its farmers remain key to overcoming the climatic hurdles of today and tomorrow.

SA’s Sauvignon Blanc Stars Set to Shine in Annual FNB Top 10 Competition

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SA’s Sauvignon Blanc Stars Set to Shine in Annual FNB Top 10 Competition

While South African Sauvignon Blanc performs excellently locally and internationally, producers can now show their mettle in Sauvignon Blanc South Africa’s annual FNB Top 10 competition.

Entries open Monday 15 July 2024 for this exclusive competition which is presented for the 18th time by the cultivar group Sauvignon Blanc SA in partnership with valued title partner FNB and platinum partner Ever SA.

Identify and promote the best Sauvignon Blanc

A distinguished panel of leading wine experts, led by the Cape Wine Master Dr Winifred Bowman, will convene from Tuesday 27 August to Thursday 29 August 2024 at Uitkyk Estate in Stellenbosch to identify the country’s best Sauvignon Blanc wines. Joining Dr Bowman on the panel are Johann Fourie, head winemaker of Benguela Cove; winemaker Morgan Steyn of De Grendel; Mahalia Kotjane, owner-winemaker of Three Quarter Wines; Dr Carien Coetzee, oenologist from Basic Wine; as well as two protégés, Nompumelelo Mosaka of Hartenberg Wine Estate and Lulo Palesa of Neil Ellis Wines.

Dr Coetzee, a committee member of Sauvignon Blanc SA, has high expectations. “Every year, the FNB Top 10 represents great variety in style and origin, and this year we are particularly looking forward to innovative wooded and unwooded styles as well as interesting flavour profiles,” says Coetzee.

Twenty finalists will be announced in September, after which the ten winners will be revealed in October at the prestigious FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 awards event.

How to enter

  • Producers can enter online at https://sauvignonblanc.com/top10-entry/.
  • The entry fee per wine is R1500 for members and R2000 for non-members.
  • The deadline for entries is Tuesday 13 August 2024, with late entries at an increased fee, accepted until Tuesday 20 August 2024.

For more information, visit www.sauvignonblanc.com, email [email protected] or call 082 808 1114. Follow Sauvignon Blanc SA on X (@SauvignonSA) and on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn (@sauvignonblancsa), and join the conversation on social media with #SauvignonBlancSA.

 

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