Vinpro Technical Harvest Report 2026

Grape and wine quality

Summary Although the 2026 season initially showed promise in terms of growth, quality and production, producers were confronted with heavy rainfall during harvest. Sound management practices enabled producers to manage this challenge effectively and to harvest selectively and strategically. Nevertheless, wines of high quality can be expected.

Chardonnay was prominent in terms of early quality indicators. Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, however, presented greater challenges, and producers

were required to adopt a selective and strategic approach to separate premium-quality grapes from those affected by rot. Good sugar levels were achieved, owing to the warm conditions throughout the season, and the intensive work in both the vineyard and cellar is expected to result in complex flavour profiles that may distinguish the 2026 vintage from others. The district was fortunate to receive near normal winter rainfall until August. From September onwards, dry conditions were favourable for vegetative growth and promoted accelerated development. Grapes remained particularly healthy throughout the season, with low disease pressure until the heavy rainfall in February. Producers, however, implemented effective canopy management and disease control practices to ensure a good harvest, with solid production and quality outcomes. ELGIN DISTRICT

HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY WARD

A sharp decline in rainfall from August to January resulted in soil profiles drying out earlier, and with minimal soil moisture saturation, conditions were conducive to healthy and balanced vegetative growth. Coupled with good fertility and owing to the favourable preceding growing season, producers achieved higher production levels than in 2025. The heavy rainfall in February, however, presented several challenges, which producers managed successfully.

The exceptional rainfall we received during the first few weeks of February presented significant challenges. The rain and increased humidity substantially elevated disease pressure, necessitating greater attention to sorting – both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Crop volumes, particularly for Chardonnay, were considerably higher than normal, and I am very satisfied with how the wines are developing. The increased Botrytis pressure also created an opportunity to produce a noble late-harvest Riesling for the first time since 2021. – Andries Burger, Winemaker, Paul Cluver Family Wines “

GABRIELSKLOOF CAPE SOUTH COAST

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

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