Vinpro Technical Harvest Report 2025

Grape and wine quality

Summary In the Cape South Coast region, where humid growing conditions often present challenges, a dry summer is always welcome news for wine grape producers. This season, producers were further blessed with ample water supplies and moderate weather, with fewer cloudy days, creating excellent conditions for ripening.

Lower humidity and summer rainfall, combined with moderate temperatures, especially in January, provided excellent conditions during

the ripening period. Sugar accumulation was optimal, and several producers noted satisfactory acidity and pH levels. The red cultivars showed excellent colour (Photo CSC 3) , while Sauvignon Blanc wines displayed abundant cultivar character throughout the region.

ELGIN DISTRICT

HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY WARD

Producers reported varied production trends, particularly among the early cultivars. As the season progressed, production improved, and a slight increase in yields was expected. The contrast between the warm 2024 season and the cooler 2025 season was especially evident in the Elgin district. February’s dry conditions ensured healthy grapes and ideal ripening. Excellent grape analyses and aroma development were achieved, thanks to predominantly moderate temperatures, with maximum temperatures exceeding 33 °C on only a few days throughout the season.

Good post-harvest and winter rains and sufficient follow-up rains in the spring created ideal conditions for optimal growth and ensured adequate water supplies. Waterlogging was largely avoided as the spring rains were less overwhelming than the previous season. Although temperatures were true to the long-term averages, January deviated from the norm with cooler maximum temperatures. February was very dry, which promoted ripening and ensured low disease pressure. A marginal increase in yield and excellent wine quality are expected.

RIJK’S

Gert Engelbrecht | 072 152 4028 | gerte@vinpro.co.za

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