Vinpro Technical Harvest Report 2025

FRANSCHHOEK DISTRICT

WELLINGTON DISTRICT

Record rainfall in July and sufficient cold accumulation provided a solid foundation for an excellent growing season. Although the growing cycle was 10–14 days later than usual and spring conditions were drier, disease pressure was significantly reduced compared to the previous year. No season is without its challenges, and this year, the gale force easterly winds in October and the heat peak in December – alongside associated sunburn damage – stood out. However, these challenges occurred relatively early in the season, and in most cases, the vineyards were able to recover. The 2025 season holds promise for an exceptional qualitative vintage. Excellent grape analyses, combined with the recovery of early Chardonnay and Pinot Noir tonnage, make this season one to remember for Cap Classique producers in Franschhoek. – Paul Gerber, Cellar Master, Colmant Cap Classique & Champagnes “ Favourable weather conditions paved the way for an excellent wine grape harvest in the Tulbagh district. A wet winter replenished water supplies, while mild conditions during spring and summer promoted healthy vine development. Both the canopies and grapes were in excellent health, with early cultivars such as Chardonnay and Pinotage showing notable improvements in production. Although some Chenin Blanc and Shiraz vineyards produced fewer bunches per shoot, the overall quality remains exceptional. Wineries in the Tulbagh valley have consistently experienced better harvests; acidity is excellent, and flavour and colour development have occurred at an earlier stage. – Dirk Swanepoel, Winemaker and Owner, Oude Compagnies Post “ TULBAGH DISTRICT

While disease pressure was minimal, some bunches suffered sunburn damage during the sudden heat peak over Christmas. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon all yielded improved quantities, whereas Chenin Blanc saw a reduction in yields. At this early stage, the wines display above-average quality, with prominent colour and flavour profiles.

Windmeul Cellar “

The pace of intake was hectic! – Anton Laas, Viticulturalist,

Summary The 2025 season will be remembered for a favourable winter with adequate rainfall and cold conditions, complemented by moderate weather during the growing season (apart from the heat peak over Christmas), and cooler nights during the harvest. Although the harvest started later, the later-ripening cultivars were ready for harvesting at their usual times, which caused some logistical challenges for producers and cellars at the peak of the harvest. The grapes were exceptionally healthy, with analyses – especially for the early cultivars – showing top quality. Ripening occurred evenly with minimal difficulties, and compared to recent seasons, 2025 will undoubtedly be regarded as one of the better production years.

WELLINGTON HAWEGUA MOUNTAINS

Hanno van Schalkwyk | 083 455 5192 | hanno@vinpro.co.za

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