The 2025 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at the historic Groot Constantia Estate in the Constantia Wine Valley, Cape Town. The prestigious event will celebrate the origins and evolution of the South African wine industry, while recognizing the contributions of those who have elevated the sector to new heights of excellence.
Honoring South Africa’s Wine Legacy
South Africa’s rich wine heritage is rooted in a pivotal moment from February 2, 1659, when the first wine was made from Cape grapes, as documented in a historic diary entry: “Today, praise be to God, wine was made for the first time from Cape grapes.” This precise historical record sets the country apart in the global wine industry, marking the beginning of a journey that has shaped both the nation’s agricultural identity and global presence.
A Night of Elegance and Reflection
The Wine Harvest Commemorative Event, hosted by the Board of Groot Constantia, promises a black-tie affair filled with elegance and celebration. Jean Naudé, CEO of Groot Constantia, emphasized the importance of the occasion: “It is again a privilege for Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm, to organise and host this annual event. This evening is a tribute to the dedication of individuals who have worked tirelessly for centuries to produce quality wine. At the event, we will recognize those who continue to carry forward this tradition.”
The event will honor achievements in several key categories, including the 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership, Growing Inclusivity, Wine Advancement, and Viti- and Viniculture. For the first time, a new award will be presented to recognize the contributions of vineyard, cellar, and farm workers—the backbone of the South African wine industry. This award is a collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Western Cape Prestige Agri Awards.
Reflections on South Africa’s Wine Industry
Rico Basson, CEO of South Africa Wine, a non-profit organization supporting the wine and brandy industries, reflected on the significance of the event and the industry’s future: “As we approach the 366th anniversary of South African wine, we stand at a pivotal moment, blending our rich heritage with an exciting future. The first pressing of Cape grapes in 1659 not only marked the birth of the wine industry but also set the stage for a global presence that would continue to shape South Africa’s agricultural and economic identity.”
Basson highlighted the resilience, innovation, and diversity that have come to define South Africa’s wine industry: “We have not only crafted world-class wines, but we have built communities, preserved traditions, and consistently pursued excellence. Looking ahead, a focus on inclusivity and diversity promises new achievements for the industry.”
Celebrating Wine Tourism’s Impact
The Wine Harvest Commemorative Event also marks the beginning of the harvest season, with a special emphasis on South Africa’s thriving wine tourism sector. Wesgro CEO Wrenelle Stander commented, “This occasion honors the enduring legacy of South African winemakers and highlights the pivotal role the wine sector plays in the economy. The Western Cape, with its 20 wine routes, continues to be a world-class wine destination, attracting visitors and bolstering the region’s tourism industry.”
A Memorable Celebration
This year’s Wine Harvest Commemorative Event will feature a performance by the internationally acclaimed Tygerberg Children’s Choir, conducted by Karina Erasmus. The evening promises to be a celebration of South Africa’s wine industry, offering music, camaraderie, and a deep appreciation for a heritage that has spanned 366 years.
The event is made possible by the generous support of Groot Constantia, Standard Bank, Air France-KLM, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, South Africa Wine, Wesgro, Cape Town Tourism, Die Burger, MCC Labels, and Seabourne Logistics.
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