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Citrus Exports Resume from Flood-Affected Citrusdal

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Citrus Exports Resume from Flood-Affected Citrusdal

Citrus exports are back on track in Citrusdal, a major citrus-growing area in South Africa’s Western Cape Province, after recent floods caused significant disruptions. Growers, exporters, and pack houses have reported that while exports have resumed, numerous challenges still remain.

Impact of the Floods

The floods, which struck at the peak of the citrus export season, led to nearly two weeks of delays in harvesting and packing during July. Despite these setbacks, the local community’s cooperation and resilience have prevailed, enabling citrus to move to the Port of Cape Town at an accelerated pace. This minimized the disruption to citrus exports, according to the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA).

Road Infrastructure Challenges

The main road connecting Citrusdal to other areas remains unrepaired. Provincial authorities have assessed the damage, and the flooding has been officially classified as a disaster. This classification is expected to expedite the release of funds and necessary assistance to rebuild the road infrastructure. The local citrus industry had already put forth designs and plans after last year’s flooding disaster, and it is hopeful for a permanent solution moving forward.

Alternative Routes for Export

Currently, the only alternative route out of the isolated valley is a low-water bridge to the north of Citrusdal on the farm of Mouton Citrus. This bridge also required over a week to clear from flooding. Local citrus growers now rely on this bridge and a network of secure roads to transport their produce. “Around 20 million 15kg cartons of citrus must move from the valley to the port every season. Right now is the peak of orange harvesting, with international markets waiting for our Navels and Valencias, and we cannot keep them waiting,” explained Boet Mouton, Director at Mouton Citrus. He emphasized that although the disaster has set back the community, the disruption to exports would be temporary.

Community Resilience and Recovery Efforts

Gerrit van der Merwe, a citrus farmer and Chairperson of the CGA, expressed relief at the resumption of activities. “In a time of crisis, we come together. Unfortunately, this is our second flooding crisis in a year, but in a certain sense, it has also prepared us to handle some of the problems we face.”

Clearing the Backlog

Efforts by growers and exporters to clear the backlog are ongoing. Van der Merwe has been vocal about the critical role of citrus farms, which sustain over 90% of Citrusdal’s economy. “It was terrible to have the entire valley come to a standstill. There were days when nobody could work. Now everything is moving. It is amazing how people jump in and really get going.”

Ongoing Challenges

Despite the progress, many challenges remain. A large citrus packer and exporter in Citrusdal noted, “Yes, we are packing again. But many challenges remain. The road is not fixed yet and the alternative route works. However, we have to make so many plans to get the citrus fruit out.”

Market Reach and Future Focus

Citrusdal, known for its high-quality citrus, is located 170km from the Port of Cape Town. The valley’s exports are primarily destined for markets in the US and Europe. With the heavy storms now subsided and the Port of Cape Town operational again, the focus is on catching up with production, packing, and shipping, ensuring the citrus reaches international markets on time.

SA Olive Awards 2024: Celebrating the Best in South African EVOOs

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SA Olive Awards 2024: Celebrating the Best in South African EVOOs

The 19th annual SA Olive Awards will take place on the 10th of September 2024 at Franschhoek Cellar in Franschhoek. This prestigious annual event celebrates the best Extra Virgin Olive Oils (EVOOs) in South Africa and includes a competition where expert judges blindly assess all South African EVOO producer entries based on quality and taste. This flagship event is crucial to the local olive oil industry, as it recognizes and acknowledges producers who demonstrate commitment, effort, and excellence in creating South African Extra Virgin Olive Oils (EVOOs).

The judging of all EVOOs that have been entered into the competition will take place between the 19th and 24th of August 2024 at Klein Joostenberg, near Stellenbosch. All entries will be evaluated by a panel of well-known international and local judges, all of whom are olive industry experts. Six EVOO experts and an international judge will make up the panel this year.

Once all entries have been judged, the highest-scoring gold medal winners will be entered into an additional round of judging and the top EVOOs will be selected for the prestigious Absa Top 10 Awards, which take place in October 2024.

Wendy Petersen, the CEO of SA Olive, shared her excitement for the forthcoming 2024 SA Olive Awards: “Our producers have had a tough year, facing low yields, challenges of supply and loadshedding. Despite these hurdles, they have never compromised on quality and their commitment to consumers. We fully expect to see more high-quality EVOOs at this year’s awards – ones that could potentially win international accolades as well.”

Keep an eye out for more exciting SA Olive Awards announcements over the next few weeks.

Lemon and Orange Exports Face Declines Amidst Severe Weather Challenges

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Lemon and Orange Exports Face Declines Amidst Severe Weather Challenges

The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has revised its export estimates, predicting a 4% decline in lemon shipments for 2024. This adjustment follows a 19% drop in orange exports announced the previous week, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the citrus industry.

Several factors have contributed to the reduction in lemon exports. Strong winds and flooding in major producing areas have significantly impacted production. Additionally, drier weather conditions have resulted in smaller fruit sizes. Another contributing factor is the attractive local juicing prices, which have diverted some of the produce away from export markets.

The CGA’s Lemon Focus Group noted that while some regions have completed their packing, the remaining harvesting areas are experiencing an unusually challenging season. Initial projections had estimated lemon volumes at 37.9 million 15kg cartons. However, the latest adjustment has brought the estimate down to 33.9 million cartons. This is a notable decrease from the 35.6 million cartons exported last year.

“While there was an initial concern that there might be an oversupply of lemons, this is not the case anymore. Supply will be relatively stable, and the demand, especially in Europe, looks good,” stated Leroux Venter, Chairman of the Lemon Focus Group.

The most significant reductions in lemon exports were reported by the Sundays River Valley and the Western Cape, with adjustments down by almost 1 million and 100,000 cartons, respectively.

Orange Exports Also Hit Hard

The CGA’s Orange Focus Group has projected a substantial 19% drop in South African Navel orange exports for 2024, estimating shipments to reach only 21 million cartons. This adjustment reflects the ongoing impact of extreme weather events in key producing areas, which have severely disrupted production.

“Inclement weather over the past two weeks has meant further reduction in predicted volumes,” said Stiaan Engelbrecht, Chairman of the Orange Focus Group. The season-opening estimate of 25.7 million cartons in May was initially reduced to 22 million cartons, and recent assessments have further lowered this to 21 million cartons. Currently, late Navels are being packed and shipped.

Valencia orange volumes have also been revised downward, now projected to reach 51.6 million cartons, down from the May forecast of 56 million and April’s estimate of 58 million. This marks an 11% reduction from the initial forecast. The largest downward adjustments have come from Letsitele, Hoedspruit, and the Senwes areas, with additional reductions in Marble Hall and Groblersdal due to recent frost damage.

Despite these challenges, Jan-Louis Pretorius, Vice Chairman of the CGA and a citrus grower in Limpopo, expressed a positive outlook. He noted that the market is looking balanced, with no risk of the oversupply initially feared.

Citrusdal Floods Impact Citrus Farming

Citrusdal, a town in the Western Cape, has recently suffered severe flooding, causing significant structural damage to farming communities. Citrus farming, the town’s main economic activity, has been heavily affected.

Authorities have warned that the damages from the floods could exceed the 430 million rands ($23.16 million) caused by the previous year’s floods. Despite the challenging situation, export oranges have begun moving out of Citrusdal through a private bridge on a citrus farm after the area was cut off.

A provincial disaster was declared following the severe rainfall two weeks ago, but the Port of Cape Town is now back to efficient operation, aiding in the movement of citrus exports.

The ongoing weather-related challenges have underscored the resilience of the citrus industry in Southern Africa. Both lemon and orange producers continue to adapt to changing conditions, striving to meet global demand while navigating the obstacles posed by extreme weather events.

South Africa Pushes for AGOA Renewal Amid US Legislative Uncertainty

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South Africa Pushes for AGOA Renewal Amid US Legislative Uncertainty

The South African agricultural community stands to benefit significantly if the country maintains its inclusion in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Recently, South Africa has been actively lobbying the United States to reauthorize AGOA before its expiration next year, with a particular emphasis on ensuring the country’s continued participation in this preferential trade agreement. This effort is crucial for maintaining duty-free access to the US market for most South African exports, which includes key agricultural products.

Government’s Lobbying Efforts

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau expressed confidence that South Africa will remain part of AGOA following his return from the 2024 AGOA Forum in Washington. During a press conference in Cape Town, Tau detailed his delegation’s efforts to secure bipartisan support for AGOA’s reauthorization. He emphasized that the delegation, which included Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield, engaged with a wide range of US officials, legislators, and business leaders to advocate for South Africa’s continued inclusion in AGOA.

Political Dynamics and Legislative Challenges

Despite the positive reception in Washington, Tau acknowledged the complexities introduced by the upcoming US presidential elections in November. The legislation suggesting South Africa’s possible exclusion from AGOA, due to its perceived relationships with Russia, China, and Iran, has been withdrawn. However, there remains a concern over legislation proposed by Republican Congress Representative John James, which calls for a comprehensive review of US-South Africa relations. If passed, this review could potentially jeopardize South Africa’s AGOA status.

Tau highlighted that although the legislation had passed the House of Representatives, it had not yet passed the Senate or been signed by President Joe Biden. South Africa plans to continue lobbying against this legislation. The delegation reassured that South Africa’s unaligned position on international relations was respected by many US officials, despite some concerns over its articulation.

Timelines and Future Prospects

Tau outlined three possible timelines for AGOA’s reauthorization: ideally before the elections, during the “lame-duck period” between the elections and the inauguration, or after the new government takes office. However, US sources have indicated that it is unlikely AGOA will be renewed this year due to competing legislative priorities and the upcoming Congressional recess.

Broader Trade Relations

Beyond AGOA, the South African delegation lobbied for an extension of the trade agreement with improved rules of origin and less frequent eligibility reviews to enhance regional value chains and manufacturing capabilities. There is also an effort to complement AGOA with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, creating a unified market for Africa.

Global Trade Challenges

In parallel, South Africa continues to address international trade challenges, particularly with the European Union’s carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), which imposes levies on exports based on carbon emissions. Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi represented South Africa at the BRICS-Plus trade ministers’ meeting in Moscow, advocating for a fair trade environment and pushing back against measures perceived as trade restrictions. The BRICS-Plus meeting underscored the need for international rules and standards for e-commerce and special economic zones to drive economic growth.

The reauthorization of AGOA is pivotal for South Africa’s agricultural sector, ensuring continued access to the US market and supporting economic growth. The South African government remains committed to securing this preferential trade agreement while navigating complex international relations and trade challenges.

Key Insights from the 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture

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Key Insights from the 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture

The Western Cape’s commitment to conservation agriculture is underscored by its long history of sustainable farming initiatives. This proactive approach is a key aspect of the broader SmartAgri plan, designed to enhance agricultural resilience in the face of climate change. The region’s pioneering efforts were recently highlighted at the 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture, which took place from 22-25 July 2024, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

This significant global event brought together experts, farmers, exhibitors, and practitioners from around the world to engage in discussions, share best practices, and explore the latest advancements in conservation agriculture. The congress not only served as a forum for academic and technical exchange, but also provided a crucial platform for farmers to share their real-life experiences and successes with conservation agriculture.

The congress was officially opened by Dr. Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism. In his inaugural address, Dr. Meyer reaffirmed the region’s commitment to leading sustainable agricultural practices. He emphasized the historical and ongoing success of conservation agriculture trials in the Western Cape, which have demonstrated significant financial benefits and achieved international acclaim.

Expert Contributions and Global Perspectives

The 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture benefited from the insights of several renowned experts. Professor Johann Strauss and Dr. Ivan Meyer each spoke on the significant achievements and ongoing trials in conservation agriculture in the Western Cape. Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General of the FAO, highlighted the untapped potential of African agriculture and the importance of sustainable practices. Dr. Theodor Friedrich, a seasoned expert from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), highlighted the critical urgency of adopting climate-smart agricultural systems to effectively combat climate change. Additionally, Saidi Mkomwa from the African Conservation Tillage Network and Professor Ken Flower discussed specific challenges in African agriculture and future directions in weed control, respectively, enriching the congress’s discussions.

Key Insights and Global Impact

One of the key lessons from the congress was the critical role of conservation agriculture in enhancing soil health and agricultural sustainability. Speakers highlighted how practices such as minimal soil disturbance, permanent soil cover, and crop rotation contribute to increased biodiversity, improved water retention, and enhanced nutrient cycling. These practices not only support crop yields, but also help in mitigating the effects of climate change by enhancing soil carbon sequestration and reducing the need for chemical inputs.

The congress also addressed the challenges of scaling up conservation agriculture. Various experts discussed the barriers to wider adoption, which include economic constraints, the need for more robust policy support, and the necessity of tailored approaches that consider local environmental and socio-economic conditions. Innovative solutions such as the integration of modern technology and traditional knowledge were presented as ways to overcome these hurdles.

Innovations and Practical Applications

A significant highlight of the congress was the practical day at Langgewens Research Farm, near Moorreesburg, where attendees could see conservation agriculture in action. This day provided valuable insights into the implementation of soil health strategies, the use of cover crops, and the integration of livestock into cropping systems. The demonstrations showcased how theoretical concepts are applied in real-world settings, offering a tangible glimpse into the potential transformation within agricultural landscapes.

Strategies for Future Growth

Throughout the congress, the emphasis was on not only understanding the principles of conservation agriculture, but also on fostering global cooperation to propel its adoption. There was a strong consensus on the need for a collaborative approach that includes farmers, researchers, policyma-kers, and the agribusiness sector. By sharing knowledge and resources, the agricultural community can drive the change towards more sustainable practices worldwide.
As the congress concluded, it was evident that the lessons learned and the strategies discussed have set the stage for the next steps in global agricultural reform.

The Western Cape, with its established track record in conservation agriculture, continues to inspire and lead by example, proving that sustainable farming is not only necessary for environmental stewardship, but also viable for economic vitality.

NAMPO Cape 2024: From Humble Beginnings to Premier Agricultural Showcase

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NAMPO Cape 2024: From Humble Beginnings to Premier Agricultural Showcase

NAMPO Cape 2024 was launched to the media on Friday, 19 July.  At the event, Christiaan Neethling, Former Chairperson, gave a retrospective of the first Mechanisation Day held in the Bredasdorp area in 1994 under the leadership of the late Niel Giliomee.  These humble beginnings, with 10 exhibitors, grew with passion and enthusiasm into the successful NAMPO Cape Expo with 34 635 visitors and 516 exhibitors in 2023.

Henk Aggenbach, Chairperson of the Bredasdorp Park Board, which hosts NAMPO Cape in collaboration with Grain SA, lifted the veil on what visitors can expect at the fifth presentation of NAMPO Cape. “There are already about 530 exhibitors allocated to 600 plots, and there are still exhibitors on the waiting list. Some of the new items on the NAMPO Cape menu are the Greenworks Demonstration Track where battery-powered vehicles are tested and demonstrated and visitors will see the South African Champion sheepdogs and their handlers in action in the BKB Livestock Centre where sheepdog training and competitions are held. The graceful LIpizzaner horses will once again wow visitors with their dances in the Western Cape Lubricants Arena. This year’s Women’s Programme in the Distinctive Choice tent and the flowers in the Voermol- and Neptun halls will ensure that the women attending NAMPO Cape ask their husbands to stay a little longer!”

Aggenbach also invited farmers, farm workers and learners to enter their patents in the NAMPO Cape Farmers’ Plans competition. He also encouraged visitors to buy their tickets online at  www.ticketpros.co.za. in this way they not only save R20 per adult, but save a lot of time because they do not have to wait in long lines to access the site.

Dr Tobias Doyer, CEO, Grain SA, placed the Western Cape Grain Industry under the magnifying glass. According to Doyer, the focus areas in the grain industry are to optimise production, unlock new markets, transform the food system and conserve the soil for generations to come. “NAMPO Cape is the platform where producers and suppliers come together to reflect on the cost/price squeeze. The challenge today is for farmers to produce more with less, and new technology is the key to success.”

During NAMPO Cape there are 4 ha grain trials where suppliers showcase new technology in grain production.  NAMPO Cape also offers a schools programme where learners with agricultural technology and agricultural management can experience what they learn in the classroom in practice.

Dr Ivan Meyer, Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism in the Western Cape, explained the implications of the Government of National Unit for Agriculture in the Western Cape: “Agriculture has experienced 30 years of fundamental uncertainty, but in the RNE, agriculture is a pillar of economic growth and food security a priority. Agriculture is the engine of job creation and economic growth and therefore the voice of farmers and farm workers needs to be heard in Parliament.”

According to Dr Meyer, biosecurity and phytosanitary interventions are high on the list of priorities for both the National Department of Agriculture and the Western Cape Government. “Given the threat of FMD to the cattle industry, livestock owners should remain vigilant, step up their biosecurity measures and take all possible precautions to prevent the disease from spreading to the Western Cape.”  Western Cape Premier Alan Winde requested Meyer to urgently write to National Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, requesting him to introduce a temporary ban on the movement of livestock to the Western Cape.

See you there!
Entrance tickets are available online at www.ticketpros.co.za, with discounts on entrance fees for online purchases, at R80 for adults and R50 for school-aged children. Tickets at the gates will be on sale at R100 for adults and R50 for children. Preschoolers come in for free. NAMPO Cape runs from Wednesday, 11 to Friday, 13 September from 08:00 to 17:00 and Saturday, 14 September from 08:00 – 14:00. Visitors can contact the Cape Agulhas Tourism Office for accommodation on 028 424 2584 / 082 896 2225 or www.overberg-info.co.za

For more information about NAMPO Cape 2024, visit www.nampokaapco.za, contact Chrystal van Wyk on 028 050 1385 or email [email protected]

Clanwilliam Veldblomskou 2024: Nostalgie en Blomme met Leon Kluge

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Clanwilliam Veldblomskou 2024: Nostalgie en Blomme met Leon Kluge

Clanwilliam Veldblomskou, met die tema “Nostalgie”, vind vanjaar plaas vanaf 23 Augustus tot 3 September in die Blomkerk. Die welbekende Leon Kluge, die wenner van verskeie toekennings vir landskapuitstallings regoor die wereld, insluitende toekennings vir sy uitstallings by die Chelsea-skou in Engeland in 2010, 2012 en weer vanjaar. Leon is ‘n internasionaal bekroonde landskapontwerper, kunstenaar, botanis, aanbieder en skrywer. Hy is ook veral bekend vir die videos oor interessante plante en blomme wat hy op sosiale media plaas. Die opening deur Kluge vind plaas op 22 Augustus in die Blomkerk.

In lyn met die tema “Nostalgie” word daar vanjaar gemymer oor die blomskoue van toeka se dae, oor die vrywilligers wat die skou op die been gebring het en hoe die blomskou deur die jare ontwikkel en uitgebrei het. Foto’s van die eerste blomskoue wat destyds gebou is en van blomskoue deur die jare, sal ook uitgestal word.

“Kerkdienste is in die Blomkerk aangebied vanaf 1864 tot in 1964 en daarna het die kerkie in die hoofstraat van Clanwilliam die tuiste van die blomme geword. Dis met groot dankbaarheid en ‘n sterk gevoel van nostalgie wat ons terugkyk oor die jare van blomskou hou. Die blomskou word deur die jare deur vrywilligers uit die dorp geskep en dis aan hierdie vrywilligers wat ons hierdie jaar wil hulde bring. Dis ‘n unieke gebeurtenis wat so eie is aan Clanwilliam en ons is baie trots daarop,” vertel Erna du Plessis, voorsitter van Clanwilliam Veldblomvereniging.

Ons kontrei het lekker reën gehad, ons dam loop oor en ons bergpieke was onlangs spierwit van die sneeu. Dit beteken dat die kanse baie goed is vir ‘n goeie blomjaar. Die veld is grasgroen en met hierdie opvolgreen wat die afgelope paar weke uitgesak het, sal die veld binnekort sy heel beste voetjie voorsit.

Clanwilliam Veldblomvereniging beywer hulle baie sterk vir die bewaring en beskerming van die veldblomme van die streek en streef daarna om die publiek bewus te maak van die broosheid en skoonheid van die veldblomme tydens die blomskou. Die vereniging verleen ook advies en bystand aan Ramskop Natuurtuin, Clanwilliam se dorpstuin.

Blomkykers word sterk aanbeveel om ook Ramskop Natuurtuin, geleë op die wal van die Clanwilliam-dam, te besoek. ‘n Groep vrywilligers werk regdeur die jaar in die tuin en dit beloof om ‘n lushof te wees gedurende die lentemaande. Die tuin is in 1960 tot ‘n natuurreservaat geproklameer. Blomkykers kan die blomme geniet deur die talle voetpaadjies deur die tuin te bewandel. ‘n Magdom van plante en blomme kan hier van naderby bekyk word. Daar word ligte etes bedien in die kafeteria tydens blomtyd.

Die blomskou is oop op bogenoemde datums vanaf 08.30 tot 16.30 daagliks. Toegang beloop R80 per volwassene en R10 per kind.

Vir navrae oor die blomskou, bel die voorsitter, Erna du Plessis by 082-889-9555. Vir enige algemene navrae, bel Clanwilliam Toerismekantoor by 027-482-2024 of 078-766-0688.

Western Cape Applauds New DMA Measures to Prevent FMD Spread

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Western Cape Applauds New DMA Measures to Prevent FMD Spread

On 27 July 2024  John Steenhuisen, the National Minister of Agriculture, published measures in the State Gazette No 50977 to prevent the spread of the foot-and-mouth disease virus through the movement of cattle, sheep, goats, and products derived from these animals in certain areas.

No cloven-hoofed animals, animal products derived from cloven-hoofed animals or genetic material of cloven-hoofed animals may be moved from, to or within the Disease Management Areas of the Eastern Cape Province except under the authority of a state veterinary permit.

Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Ivan Meyer recently expressed his deep concern about the possible spread of FMD in letters to Minister Steenhuisen and MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe, the MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform in the Eastern Cape.

Minister  Meyer said, “given our proximity to the Eastern Cape and, in particular, Humansdorp, I  welcome Minister John Steenhuisen’s decision. The increased biosecurity measures he is implementing bolster the work being done by our state veterinarians to prevent the further spread of FMD.”

Minister Steenhuisen’s declaration means that portions of Kou-kamma municipality and Kouga municipality, which are demarcated by the following boundaries, are declared to be part of the Eastern Cape Province Disease Management Area:

  • The western boundary is the Groot River.
  • The northern boundary is the continuation of the Groot River, which turns east and joins the boundary of the Witelsbos State Forest. Then, along the southern and eastern border of the Witelsbos State Forest until the R402, and from there, along the R402 until the R62. Then, along the R62 until the N2. Then, along the N2 up until the R330. Then, along the R330 in a northerly direction up to where the R330 road crosses the Kabeljous River.
  • (The eastern boundary is the Kabeljous River.
  • The southern boundary is the Indian Ocean.
  • Including all farms that are transected by these boundaries.

The following documents must accompany all movements of live cattle, sheep and goats in the provinces:

  • Owner declaration attesting to the origin and health status of the animals;
  • Signed undertaking of the recipient at the destination, confirming that the animals will be isolated at the destination farm for at least 28 days before introducing them onto the main herd.

Minster Meyer urged all role-players to remain vigilant and continuously work to strengthen the biosecurity measures on the farms.

Minister Myer said, “we dare not become complacent. For this reason, Western Cape Provincial Traffic Officers, supported by State Veterinary and Provincial Disaster Management Officials, will immediately check vehicles entering the Western Cape. During these checks, documentation and livestock inspections will take place.”

Minister Meyer also expressed his gratitude to role players within the livestock industry for working with state veterinarians to prevent FMD from spreading to the Western Cape, which remains FMD-free.

Minister Meyer said, “The Western Cape Government has partnered with the Red Meat Producers Organization, Agri Western Cape and sister departments such as the Department of Mobility, South African Police Service and the Provincial Disaster Management Centre.”

“We are determined to take the necessary steps to protect our livestock industry and jobs. For this reason, I will join officials at livestock vehicle checking operations on Monday, 29 July 2024 and Tuesday, 30 July 2024.”

“Together, we will implement more stringent biosecurity measures to curb the spread of FMD.”

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.

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