Technical Yearbook 2024

FOREWORD

A knowledge-driven future for South African Wine

The foundation of a thriving and competitive wine industry lies in continuous learning, research, and innovation. At South Africa Wine, our Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) department is dedicated to ensuring that the latest scientific advancements are not only accessible to our industry but also applied in ways that drive meaningful progress in grape growing and winemaking. The Technical Yearbook is an essential resource in this undertaking. By consolidating an entire year’s worth of research driven technical articles, we provide industry professionals with a guide to the latest research results and best practices that can help shape the future of South African wine. This publication represents the expertise, dedication, and forward-thinking approach of the researchers, viticulturists, and winemakers committed to quality grape growing and winemaking. With topics ranging from new clones for Pinotage and the effective utilisation of winery wastewater to bioprotection and calcium tartrate instability, the Technical Yearbook bridges academic research and practical application. By translating science into actionable knowledge, we empower industry stakeholders to make informed decisions that enhance sustainability, efficiency, and quality. As we print and distribute this book for the second year under the auspices of South Africa Wine, we reaffirm our commitment to creating and maintaining a knowledge-sharing culture. We aim to ensure that the South African wine industry remains at the forefront of global innovation, equipped with the tools and insights to navigate present challenges and future opportunities. I encourage every reader to engage with the content, apply the findings, and contribute to the collective growth of our industry. Ultimately, this contributes to our strategic goal of building a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future for South African wine. 

Gerard Martin Research, Development, and Innovation Executive South Africa Wine

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TECHNICAL YEARBOOK 2024