South African Wine Resources
- Cape Wine Academy: Our passion keeps South African wine alive by teaching, inspiring and growing an inclusive wine culture for all. Our courses are unique in that we focus on the nuances of the Cape wine landscape whilst keeping the context of global wine regions. We do this by tapping into the vast knowledge and wisdom of affiliated and actively involved wine professionals and specialists whose expertise is incorporated into the training materials and assessments that are regularly reviewed and updated to remain relevant.
- Wines of South Africa (WoSA): WoSA is a not-for-profit industry organization that is responsible for export promotions of South African wine in key international markets. Here you will find up-to-date information on our regions, varieties, terroirs, and biodiversity, which all make for our variety of distinctive and unique wines.
- South African Sommeliers Association: The South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) has established itself as an integral part of the food and wine industry in South Africa. SASA is a non-profit organization and aims to offer its services to service industry professionals in South Africa. The association offers internationally recognized Sommelier qualifications to all its members and organizes the best sommelier and best young sommelier competitions in alternating years.
- The Cape Classique Producers Association: Classic method of making champagne by creating a second fermentation in the bottle. The term Cap Classique has been used in South Africa since 1992.Cap Classique Producers Association (CCPA) was established in 1992 by a group of like-minded producers who share a passion for bottle-fermented sparkling wines, made according to the traditional method (Méthode Champenoise). Their version is to promote South Africa’s premium Méthode Cap Classique wines, as well as the common interests of the producers. They also intend to establish Cap Classique as a generic term to describe these wines, ensuring that it is recognized both locally and in the international marketplace.
- Zuri Wine: Zuri Wine Tasting: A Taste of Diversity and FunZuri Wine Tasting is a company dedicated to making the world of wine more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Founded by the passionate and enthusiastic Tuanni Price, Zuri offers a range of experiences in both Los Angeles, USA and Cape Town, South Africa, from intimate tastings and educational classes to curated tours and private events. Tuanni Price is a renowned wine enthusiast, educator, and entrepreneur who has made significant contributions to the wine industry, particularly in promoting diversity and inclusivity. She is the founder of Zuri Wine Tasting, a company that offers wine tastings, classes, and tours in both the United States and South Africa. Price is passionate about making the world of wine more accessible and approachable for everyone, and she is admired for her fun, non-snob approach to wine appreciation.
- Pinotage Association: Pinotage a uniquely South African Grape varietal treasured around the world. The Pinotage Association is responsible for developing the quality of Pinotage wines. This is done by continuously educating members on the viticulture and vinification of Pinotage grapes, and by exchanging ideas on the production and marketing of Pinotage wines. In 1925, Perold successfully crossed Pinot Noir and Cinsaut, known then as Hermitage. From here the name Pino – tage. Prof CJ Theron succeeded in rescuing and producing original seedlings, of which there were only four, and undertook the considerable task of evaluation. Sixteen years later in 1941, Charl Theron de Waal produced the first barrel of Pinotage wine, in Stellenbosch. The name appeared on a wine label for the first time in 1961 as the SFWs 1959 Lanzerac Pinotage.
- Chenin Blanc Association: THE CBA SEEKS TO PROMOTE CHENIN BLANC AS A SOURCE OF OUTSTANDING QUALITY WINES ACROSS THE STYLISTIC SPECTRUM. There is love for this grape and belief in its versatility. And it is precisely this diversity of offering of Chenin Blanc and regionally expressive wines that tell the story of South Africa. The largest producer of Chenin Blanc is South Africa.In South Africa, Chenin Blanc is sometimes blended with Semillon, Viognier, and Marsanne to make a richer-styled wine similar to an oaked Chardonnay but with a sweeter taste. Also in South Africa, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc are blended to create a fresh and zesty dry wine.
- Shiraz South Africa: Shiraz SA is the official association and mouthpiece for all producers and aficionados of South African Shiraz. The organization is devoted to creating an awareness for the superior and award-winning wines produced locally from this noble cultivar. Through the years legends about the origins of Shiraz or Syrah as it is often called, have abounded.Shiraz is the 2nd biggest planted red variety in South Africa after Cabernet Sauvignon and fourth overall after Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Colombar. Compared to the rest of the world SA has the 4th biggest plantings of Shiraz.
- Stellenbosch Cabernet: A collective of Stellenbosch producers, curating the expression of Stellenbosch through Cabernet Sauvignon, joined together in sharing passion, discovery, and knowledge. Together we are Stellenbosch Cabernet.The Stellenbosch Cabernet Collective, thus, harnesses a myriad stories, personalities, and geographical signatures under one banner. Representing some of the finest names in the world of wine who owe their status to their respective offering of Cabernet Sauvignon, this organization collectively underscores the reputation and image of Stellenbosch as one of the leading premier regional names in the world of wine.
- Hallo Merlot: We really love Merlot and the prospects it brings to South Africa. We aim to promote and improve of wine made from the Merlot grape variety and provide a platform for acquiring existing and new knowledge and sharing it with members and producers through workshops and online dialogues. Our hope is that through better knowledge and information sharing we can facilitate the improvement of both the image and quality of South African Merlot and Merlot-based blends. The Merlot Forum also focuses on Merlot marketing, awareness and identifying valuable research that can contribute to making Merlot matter to more South Africans.
- Sauvignon Blanc South Africa: Sauvignon Blanc South Africa fosters excellence in making and marketing South African Sauvignon Blanc locally and internationally. Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine that owes much of its popularity to winemakers in Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France. The Sauvignon Blanc taste is very different from other white wines because of its green and herbaceous flavors. The name Sauvignon Blanc means “Wild White” and the grape is related to Traminer with origins in the South of France. It is unclear exactly when Sauvignon was introduced to the Cape, but it was certainly planted at Groot Constantia in the late 1880 and reportedly performed well there. The most noteworthy characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc is its unique and powerful aroma, which can awaken scents of grapefruit, flint, lime, green melon, gooseberry, passion fruit, freshly mown grass, and bell pepper.
- Chardonnay in South Africa: Chardonnay has been a relative late-comer to the South African vineyard landscape. The planting of this great white grape of Burgundy only really began to take root in the 1980s after a period of trial, error, and experimentation with the finding of plant material best-suited to South African conditions. By 1990 Chardonnay only comprised 1.5% of all South Africa’s vineyards, with De Wetshof, Backsberg and Simonsig generally regarded as this varieties pioneers in the country. Today some 6 685ha (13%) of the Cape Winelands is planted to Chardonnay, with the variety showing its ability to adapt to an exciting diversity of terroir by being present throughout the country’s wine regions.
- Sundial Wine & Wellness: Wine Education Made Delicious, Promoting Sustainable Wine in South Africa. Their Priorities: The South Africa wine market focuses on growing high-quality grapes (most popularly: Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Pinotage), utilizing new technology, and establishing themselves as leaders of sustainable winemaking.
- South African Liquor Brand Owners Association: SALBA is a non-profit organisation, established in 2005. The CEO, Kurt Moore and his team, represent manufacturers and distributors in the liquor industry on issues of common interest.
- South African Brandy Association: South African brandy is made to the highest production requirements. The process of making brandy excellence is a hand crafted and meticulous process that results in award winning potstill brandies with complex multilayered aroma profiles. Take your time with our brandies and experience excellence. Today, South African brandy is acknowledged to be the world’s finest. Comprehensive legislation and a proud tradition ensure that our brandy is of the highest quality. The title of Worldwide Best Brandy at the International Wine and Spirits competition has been awarded to a South African brandy 15 times in the past 20 years.
- Gerard Basset Foundation: The Foundation is mandated to fund educational and professional programs focused on supporting diversity, equity & inclusion in wine, spirits & hospitality globally.Gérard Basset (7th March 1957 – 16th January 2019) OBE MS MW MBA OIV MSc ASI World Champion was without question one of the greatest wine professionals of a generation. He was the first and only individual to hold the excruciatingly challenging Master of Wine qualification simultaneously with the Master Sommelier, Bordeaux KEDGE Wine MBA and the OIV MSc; an achievement that is unlikely to be repeated for years to come. Check out this Video on this Diversity Scholar.
- 67 Pall Mall TV: Welcome to 67pallmall.tv; a 4k video-on-demand channel produced by 67 Pall Mall, the world’s first group of Private Members’ Clubs with wine at the center of the offering.The unique concept of the channel sprang from a series of Zoom wine masterclasses that 67 Pall Mall held during UK lockdown between March 2020 and May 2021. The Club hosted over 1,200 masterclasses during this period, with up to 7 events scheduled per day, reaching more than 97,000 viewers around the world. Check out the Documentaries, Wine of California, Wine, and Food pairing and more.
- Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trade Association: WIETA drives a pro-active world-class and sustainable ethical trade program for the South African wine industry and aligned sectors. WIETA is also a globally recognized ethical auditing body registered with the Global Social Compliance Programme (GSCP).
- Visit Stellenbosch: Welcome to Stellenbosch – South Africa’s second oldest town and most inspiring wine, food, art and cultural destination. The scenic Stellenbosch Wine Route is the oldest in the country and one of the most popular destinations for local and international visitors alike. We’ll introduce you to unforgettable cellar door experiences, award-winning wine estates, celebrated restaurants, and Stellenbosch’s unique and enviable lifestyle. Stellenbosch is an ideal getaway year-round. Our historic town center is a living museum with a vibrant street culture. Expect friendly locals, a host of lively events (from art, music, and history to outdoor pursuits) and natural scenery to rival even our finest grape.
- Institute of Cape Wine Masters: The title of Cape Wine Master is one of the most sought-after qualifications in the South African Wine Industry.Over the last 40 years, 110 candidates have qualified to become Cape Wine Masters and a further 3 were awarded the title of Honorary Cape Wine Masters, bringing the total number to 113. Cape Wine Masters (in their personal capacities) are involved in a range of disciplines: wine making, wine marketing, wine promotion and sales, wine journalism, cellar design and construction, cellar stock advice, wine sourcing, tasting presentations and food and wine presentations
- The Pinotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA): PYDA exists to work with young, talented South Africans for irrevocable personal change and meaningful economic outcomes. Based in the Stellenbosch area, PYDA develops talented 18 – 34-year old’s from under resourced areas for employment and meaningful economic opportunities. The Academy’s work started with innovative programs which combine personal development skills (35%) with industry-specific vocational training (40%) and practical work experience (25%). PYDA’s Wine practitioner program covers the entire value chain of the wine industry, including wine knowledge, tourism, and other related sectors. The qualifications for this program include a University of Stellenbosch short course at an NQF Level 5 and a Tour Guide WSET Level 2 qualification. We work with accredited training providers and students are able to specialize in a specific area at the end of the program.
- Wine Training South Africa: WTSA is a Non-Profit organisation that offers an extensive training program to cellar workers in the South African Wine Industry since 1987. In 1987 a few Cellars Technology Old Boys from Elsenburg had the vision to initiate wine industry training for cellar assistants. The SKOP program (Afrikaans for Senior Cellar Assistant Training Programme). The program was presented under the auspices of EKOV (Elsenburg Cellar Technology Alumni Association) from 1987 until 2005 when Wine Training SA, a Non-Profit organisation was founded.
- Cape Winemakers Guild: Membership is by invitation only and many of South Africa’s leading winemakers are members of the Guild. The CWG meets regularly as a technical tasting group, providing its members with an opportunity to evaluate wines from around the world and to share their knowledge and ideas – ensuring that CWG members remain leaders in the art and science of winemaking.
- Wine and Spirit Education Trust: WSET’s purpose is to empower people through inspiring learning experiences all over the world. We offer a comprehensive suite of globally recognized qualifications covering wines, spirits and sake. Our qualifications are designed for those who are just starting out in their careers, as well as established professionals, and the many enthusiasts who have a passion for wines, spirits, and sake.
- Old Vine Project: Wines that are made from old vines (vines that are 35 years and older) are a tribute to the grower’s love of the land. They exist because of the people who touched and tended them over many years. They reflect the terroir, landscape, and people who lovingly tend these vineyards across the Cape. Our goal is to build the Old Vine category in South Africa and abroad with media, producers, trade, and consumers alike by demonstrating the benefits of preserving vineyards that are 35 years and older
- Visit South Africa Winelands: Explore South Africa Wine Routes -A dedicated website developed to assist in the growth of wine tourism Explore South Africa’s twenty-three wine routes with our insider guide and tailor-make your next winery visits here. Travel to the place of origin to learn more about South African wine, to uncover regional secrets and simply to slow down and enjoy life’s special moments. The Visit Winelands digital platforms were created by Vinpro, representative body for the South African wine industry, to provide visitors with a comprehensive guide for exploring South Africa’s winelands.
- VinPro: Advocacy: Growing the South African Wine Industry. Vinpro is a non-profit company which represents close to 2 600 South African wine producers, cellars and industry stakeholders. The organization liaises closely with Government and industry role players on issues that have an impact on the profitability and sustainability of its members and the industry as a whole. It keeps its members and the broader industry informed of industry trends and technical expertise and renders specialized services ranging from soil science to viticulture, agricultural economics and transformation and development. ORGANISATIONAL DESIGN- Vinpro and the South African Liquor Brandowners’ Association (SALBA) liaise closely with regard to advocacy with Government, civil society and industry. Vinpro also collaborates with the business units SAWIS, WINETECH, WoSA and the SA Wine Industry Transformation Unit.
- Wineland Media: The Voice for SA Wine and Grape Industry: Since 1931, Wineland has been the go-to source of information for the South African wine industry. Winemakers, grape-growers, viticulturists, service providers & suppliers, researchers & academics, wine marketers & decision-makers all turn to Wineland for up-to-date and relevant content that truly captures the dynamic spirit of the Cape Winelands. Covering the entire spectrum of the wine value-chain, Wineland articles range from the latest in business and production trends (locally and internationally), viticulture and winemaking research, including social upliftment, learning, development, transformation, wine tourism, technology, marketing and advocacy. Wineland Media publishes the yearly (SAWID) South African Wine Industry Directory, a comprehensive guide to the wine industry value chain.
- South African Wine Industry Directory (SAWID): WineLand magazine is South Africa’s oldest and most authoritative wine industry publication. Every year, WineLand publishes the South African Wine Industry Directory, a comprehensive guide to the wine industry value chain. This Online Directory lists the structure of the industry, organisations, writers, wine routes, production areas, registered nurseries, producers and suppliers which populate the South African wine landscape.
- Cork Supply: Cork is without doubt the material of choice for stoppers of quality wines. They protect from oxidation at the same time as they allow the transfer of oxygen suitable for their ageing. Produced through highly sustainable methods that simultaneously protect several wild species, they are the choice with the least environmental impact of all the alternatives for wine. Experts in Natural and Technical Cork Closures for Still and Sparkling Wines. We preserve what nature has gifted us with, and product closures with a negative carbon footprint.
- AEB-GROUP: We passionately enable winemakers and brewers around the world to improve natural processes. We leverage worldwide data-driven knowledge to offer biotechnology, tailored solutions, sanitization processes and specialized equipment derived from continuous innovation and delivered through the largest and most knowledgeable team of experts.
- AEB ACADEMY: AEB ACADEMY is where you can take advantage of our knowledge-building resources. Discover more about the world of yeast and nutrition, fermentation and flavour development, filtration, and industrial sanitation. Learn about the latest eco-biotechnologies for beer brewing, winemaking, next generation beverages, and food production. Hear how our solutions and production equipment support economically-sound processes and minimize negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources. It’s all just a click away
- SA Wine Industry Information and Systems (SAWIS): SAWIS purpose is to assist the wine industry by turning data into information that helps turn challenges into opportunities. Our vision is to be the indispensable data technology resource to the wine industry, dispensing 100% online, real-time, easy access to relevant information. SAWIS’ promise to the wine industry is to turn data into real-time, relevant information, enabling quality decision making that delivers competitive advantage. We do this by collaborating to access data, processing that data into meaningful information, and making the information easy to access. Our collaboration extends to constantly assessing our delivery.
- WINETECH: Winetech receives and manages the research statutory levy from the South African wine industry. It has four core functions: Research and Development, Knowledge Transfer, Innovation, and Learning and Development. Our Vision- To help create a wine industry that recognizes and uses science and technology as foundation stones for its success. Winetech Knowledge Transfer focuses on the transfer of factual knowledge with great information including: Research Booklet, E-Books, Relevant Resources, SA Trilingual Wine Industry Dictionary, Articles and Yearbooks.
- Wine.co.za: Virtual Home of South African Wine, this site offers the most current news, wine education and events on wines in South Africa. This site is visited daily by Sommeliers, Agents, Buyers, Restaurateurs, Journalists, PR Agencies, Distributors, Media, Marketers, Wine-loving Consumers, Wine Tourists, and Winemakers. This site has a great List of Tasting Rooms, Places to eat, Places to Sleep and Things to Do.
As you explore the captivating world of South African wines, remember that each bottle is not just a beverage; it’s a story of heritage, a whisper of the unique South African terroir, and a testament to the dedication of its vintners. At Seymour International Trade Group, we are committed to bringing this rich and diverse narrative to the world.
Our journey with South African wines is more than just about import and export; it’s about sharing a legacy, fostering connections, and celebrating the exquisite craftsmanship that goes into every sip. No matter if you’re exploring bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling varieties, South African wines promise an adventure that presents an experience that entices with their rich aromas, captivating the palate and nourishing the spirit.
Whether you’re a connoisseur, a casual enthusiast, or a business looking to explore the wonders of South African wines, Seymour International Trade Group is your gateway to a world where taste transcends borders, and every glass is a toast to excellence and cultural richness. Join us in this journey of discovery, and let’s savor the extraordinary flavors of South Africa together!