367 Years of South African Wine: 2026 Harvest Awards at Groot Constantia, Cape Town
There is a specific kind of magic that settles over the Constantia Wine Valley in early February. It is a season of tangible energy—not just because the harvest is in full swing, but because it marks the birth of an entire industry.
It is incredible to think that we can trace the exact origin of the South African Wine Industry to a single diary entry dated 2 February 1659, which read: "Today, praise be to God, wine was made for the first time from Cape grapes".
This past Thursday, 5 February, I had the privilege of attending the annual Wine Harvest Commemorative Event at the historic Groot Constantia Estate. Beyond the blessing of the new 2026 crop, it was an evening dedicated to five industry giants who are shaping the future of the Cape Winelands.
The Awards of the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event 2026 ceremony at Groot Constantia
After the traditional “blessing of the harvest,” we gathered for a black-tie gala to honour those setting new standards of excellence:
Visionary Leadership: The Retief Family (Van Loveren) The Retiefs have transformed Van Loveren into a powerhouse of diversification. Beyond their seven unique tasting experiences, their "energy-smart" initiatives and employee shareholding schemes prove that leadership is about more than just what’s in the glass.
Growing Inclusivity: Denzel Swarts As a director at the Pinotage Youth Development Academy, Denzel was recognized for breaking socio-economic ceilings and opening doors for the next generation of wine professionals.
Wine Advancement: Pieter Ferreira Affectionately known as "Mr. Bubbles," Pieter has been the heartbeat of Graham Beck since 1990. His promotion of Cap Classique has almost single-handedly elevated our bottle-fermented sparkling wines to global acclaim.
Viti- and Viniculture: Charl Theron With 50 years of brilliance, Charl is a titan of oenology. From lecturing at Stellenbosch University to founding study groups for cellar workers, his technical expertise is woven into the fabric of SA winemaking.
Wine Agri-Worker: Wilfred Fortuin At just 31, Wilfred—a graduate of the Elsenburg programme and a Burgundy exchange participant—stole the show. His dedication represents the vital heartbeat of our vineyards.
As wine drinkers, we often focus on the structure—the acidity, the tannins, the terroir. But this evening was a reminder that the true "structure" of the South African wine industry is its people.
How you can support Wine Tourism
While the Commemorative Event is a prestigious industry gathering, the legacies of these honourees are accessible to every traveller. Two award recipients were from the wine region of Robertson. If you're inspired by the stories of the 2026 recipients, here is how you can experience their work firsthand in the heart of the Robertson Wine Valley (approximately 2 hours from Cape Town).
1. Van Loveren Family Vineyards: The "Garden of Stories"
The Retief family has created a destination that is as much about heritage as it is about wine. Van Loveren was my 35th winery visit in 2016.
The Experience: Don't miss the Garden Tour. Matriarch Jean Retief began planting trees in 1939 to mark family and political milestones; it’s a living history book of South Africa.
The Tasting: They offer one of the most diverse pairing menus in the Cape—everything from chocolate and cheese to non-alcoholic options for the kids and "undiscovered gems" for the connoisseur.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling active, they have incredible mountain biking and hiking trails (the Fish Eagle trail) along the Breede River.
2. Graham Beck: The House of the Perfect Bubble
Under the guidance of Pieter "Mr Bubbles" Ferreira, Graham Beck has become a shrine to Cap Classique. I visited this winery in 2021 and ticked it off as winery number 148.
The Experience: The tasting room, albeit a bit tired of late, does offer floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the veld and often has interesting pairings to enjoy (like popcorn and wine). It makes a great stop when you are entering or leaving Robertson.
The Tasting: Try the "Sparkle & Pop" pairing—Cap Classique served with gourmet popcorn. It’s the perfect example of how the estate balances high-end elegance with a touch of wit.
Pro tip: Ask for the Vintage Collection Tasting. It’s the best way to understand how limestone-rich soils contribute to the longevity and "mousse" of world-class bubbly.
Plan Your Visits
When to go: Now! Harvest season (February - March) is the most electric time to be in the valley.
Stay: Consider staying at Robertson Halfway House at the Robertson Golf Course, Galloway or The Grand Hotel which are some of my accommodation faves.
For more information about the SA Wine Harvest Commemorative event, visit https://sawineharvest.co.za/
#HappyBirthdaySAWine #VisitRobertson #SAWineTourism #CapClassique
