CapeWine 2025 has wrapped up after three days of vibrant engagement, celebration, and connection, firmly cementing its reputation as the premier showcase for South African wine. Under the theme “Our Warmest Welcome”, the event drew 1,605 delegates, a powerful indication of the global interest in the country’s wine industry.
Global Reach and Strong International Participation
Delegates and trade visitors hailed from more than 60 international markets, including Belgium, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, the Netherlands, Russia, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, the UAE, the UK, the USA, South Africa, and Zambia.
Opening Ceremony
The show was officially opened by Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, whose powerful keynote address celebrated the economic and social contributions of the South African wine industry. His remarks set an optimistic tone for the event, underscoring the sector’s vital role in creating jobs, driving tourism, and positioning South Africa as a force in global wine.
Three Days of Connection, Learning and Collaboration
Over the course of three successful days, CapeWine 2025 offered buyers, importers, and media a unique opportunity to meet hundreds of local producers under one roof. The bustling show floor saw important discussions, fruitful meetings, and a positive spirit of collaboration, with many attendees expressing confidence that a number of exciting business deals will follow. This tenth edition of the show was once again supported by key sponsorship partners, DHL and Hillebrand Gori, for a fourth time.
In addition to the exhibitor showcases, six formal seminars took place in the John Deere Formal Seminar area, providing deep dives into important industry-related topics. The ten lighter sessions in the Amorim Speaker’s Corner proved hugely popular, offering more informal knowledge-sharing opportunities. Meanwhile, the Johnsson Workwear Theme Tasting area was exceptionally well attended, allowing delegates to taste their way through ten themed tastings and 120 wines during the course of the show.
A New Era for South African Wine
On the final day, Wines of South Africa unveiled their new branding, signalling an exciting new chapter for the industry. The fresh strapline “There’s Sunshine Inside” and new logo highlight South Africa’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence as it continues to strengthen its global presence.
Looking Ahead to 2028
Commenting on the event’s success, WoSA CEO, Siobhan Thompson, said:
“CapeWine 2025 truly lived up to its theme, offering our warmest welcome to the world. The engagement we’ve seen from international buyers, distributors, and media demonstrates the strength of South African wine globally. This event was about forging connections and inspiring future growth and from the feedback we have received this was the best CapeWine yet!”
The next CapeWine is set to take place in 2028, and Wines of South Africa looks forward to once again welcoming trade and media from across the globe as the local wine industry continues to go from strength to strength.