Vinpro Technical Harvest Report 2026

TULBAGH DISTRICT

WELLINGTON DISTRICT

The winter was relatively dry, with virtually no spring rainfall recorded. Bud break was uniform, and fruit set was above average due to the absence of strong winds during the flowering period. Strong south-easterly winds during summer are a common occurrence in this area. Canopy development was rapid, and growth was vigorous. As in surrounding regions, harvest dates for the first half of the season were consistently approximately 10 days earlier than normal. Following a heatwave in March, the second half of the harvest progressed at a more typical pace, with all remaining cultivars reaching ripeness simultaneously. Grapes were exceptionally healthy, and higher yields were recorded due to good set and fertility. Pinotage, Shiraz and Grenache Noir showed excellent wine quality at an early stage.

Winter rainfall was significantly lower than the long-term average. By the end of August, 391 mm of rainfall had been recorded at Wellington Cellar, compared with 571 mm in the previous year. Temperatures in spring and summer were very high, which resulted in rapid vineyard development. Bunch numbers were higher than normal, and early cultivars such as Pinotage, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay delivered large crops. Grapes were healthy, with excellent analytical results, especially during the first half of the harvest period. The heatwave in March compressed the ripening window of late cultivars, which required careful cellar and logistical management. Red wines show good colour development, while white wines – particularly Chenin Blanc – exhibit tropical fruit characteristics.

Summary The growing season was warm and dry, resulting in rapid vineyard development. These conditions, with accompanying drier and warmer soils, coupled with adequate winter chilling and favourable post-harvest conditions, had a positive effect on fertility and consequently on crop size. January and February were slightly cooler, although a few exceptionally hot days occurred in mid-February, followed by an intense heatwave in mid-March that led to a significant rise in temperatures. Cellars were under considerable pressure during both the early and late stages of the harvest period to receive grapes timeously. While berry size was smaller due to the dry conditions, increased bunch numbers contributed to a larger and high-quality crop.

VISITWINELANDS WELLINGTON

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

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