May 28, 2024
Following our White Wine Report in December 2023, we recognized the importance of extending the same attention to our red cultivars. We invited a few industry experts to share their insights on the momentum and direction of SA's most powerful red wine categories; to see what the future might hold for cultivars like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinotage, and even cultivars like Ruby Cabernet.
Ginette de Fleuriot, Vinimark's Wine Education & Training Manager, shared valuable insights on the current state of red wine sales in South Africa. Murray Barlow, Director of Rustenberg Wines, shared Rustenburg's commitment to planting Cabernet for the next decade, highlighting its importance. Roland Peens (WineCellar, Strauss & Co Wine, Wine Business Advisors) and Dr Marinda Kruger (Director of Winemaking, Firstleaf Napa) highlighted the benefits of knowing your customer and the profitability of DTC sales. Giliam Botma, Bosman Adama Grapevines & Plant Improvement, discussed the development of disease-resistant varieties like Carbon Car and Carbon Cordes, offering promising solutions for sustainable viticulture in South Africa.