2026 is a very good year for South African wines, industry body says

Nonprofit organisation South Africa Wine, which is the representative body for the industry, reports that the national grape harvest for this year is estimated at 1.37-million tons, which is moderately higher that the amount harvested last year. This was despite the fact that the growing season was marked by significant changes in the weather, ranging from dry conditions to heavy rainfall. “This was a highly variable and technically demanding season, requiring producers to make precise informed decisions in both the vineyard and the cellar,” highlights wine industry specialist support organisation Vinpro Consultation Service Manager Dr Etienne Terblanche. “From canopy management and irrigation discipline to selective harvesting and careful sorting under disease pressure, the 2026 harvest highlights the depth of expertise across our industry. The result is wines with excellent balance, concentration and strong premium potential.”