Vinpro Technical Harvest Report 2026

in excess from late February. This contributed to the occurrence of powdery mildew in early December and downy mildew and rot during the ripening period. Seasonal vegetative growth was optimal, although leaf loss was

recorded in blocks that did not receive adequate preventative fungal protection, particularly later in the season or where frequent rainfall events hindered effective management.

Photo NK 1. Hail damage in a Colombar vineyard in Kanoneiland following a hail event in December 2025.

Grape and wine quality

Production trends The onset of the harvest was approximately six days later than in the previous season, with the first Chenin Blanc grapes received on 14 January 2026. The later start to harvest, combined with accelerated ripening of mid- and late-season cultivars, resulted in a concentration of crop intake, and cellars were therefore required to operate at full capacity (>800 tonnes/ day) for 29 consecutive days to keep pace. Following the record yields of the previous year, production in the 2026 season was lower, primarily due to sanitary challenges after the heavy rainfall in February, followed by berry dehydration during extremely high temperatures in early March.

Grape analyses were favourable, with above-average sugar levels for both white and red cultivars. Initially, acid analyses and pH levels

were within acceptable ranges; however, acidity declined sharply as the season progressed, which necessitated adjustments in the cellar. Due to pressure on fermentation capacity, winemakers were required to carefully manage operations, particularly to optimise colour extraction. Similarly, they had to work strategically to keep lots separate in order to ensure quality in the presence of sanitary challenges in affected vineyard blocks. Certain blocks that had been pre identified for premium wine production did not disappoint. The young wines show strong character, with fresh and fruit-forward attributes coming to the fore.

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