South Africa Wine Research Projects 2026

4. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER PROJECT IN PROGRESS

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER PORTFOLIO Our research is driven by real-world industry needs and continuously reviewed by expert-led committees. This ensures that every insight, new knowledge and innovation we share is not only relevant but also valuable for South Africa’s wine industry, supporting producers, winemakers, and enthusiasts with practical, actionable knowledge. Our technology transfer portfolio supports the effective transfer of the latest scientific knowledge across industry. This includes the publication of the annual technical yearbook, which compiles a year’s worth of research-driven technical articles, and the research project book, which reflects a diverse and increasingly advanced research portfolio, encompassing new projects commencing in 2026, ongoing projects, and projects concluded in 2025. In addition, in-depth technical articles featuring research insights and practical applications are published monthly in Wineland magazine, Wineland Online, and on the South Africa Wine website (www.sawine.co.za). A comprehensive research library is also available on the South Africa Wine website, providing access to both current and past industry-funded projects. The platform features a user-friendly search function, similar to Google, allowing users to easily explore topics of interest. In close collaboration with Vinpro, we provide financial support for several key initiatives. The Knowledge Flow programme includes regional information days, viticulture forum meetings, study groups, and case studies, with a specific focus this year on frost. The Advico programme comprises a technical workshop, an applied research project addressing heat mitigation and grower field days at various demo sites: cultivar demos at Goudini cellar and Eenzaamheid, Chenin blanc clone demos at Opstal, Olyvenhout and Eenzaamheid, Chardonnay clone demo at Bon Vallon, Cabernet Sauvignon clone demo at Kanonkop, Chardonnay rootstock demo at Excelsior and Chenin blanc and Pinotage rootstock demo at Otterkuil . The Production Plan project enables the industry to benchmark performance against historical data, regional metrics, and broader industry trends, supporting more informed decision-making and improved operational efficiency. In partnership with various fruit industries, the Confronting Climate Change (CCC) initiative was launched in 2017 and began as a carbon footprinting project for the South African wine and fruit sectors. Its primary objective is to assist producers in accurately measuring, managing, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, thereby promoting more sustainable agricultural practices. In parallel, South Africa Wine supports the South African Journal of Enology and Viticulture (SAJEV), a scientific journal published by the South African Society for Enology and Viticulture. SAJEV publishes high-quality research from both South African and international scientists across

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SOUTH AFRICA WINE RESEARCH 2026