Vinpro Technical Harvest Report 2026

of groundwater levels and, alongside irrigation, played a decisive role in supporting the larger than-expected crop through to harvest. General remarks

Production trends It is evident that the 2026 harvest exceeded the expectations of most stakeholders in the industry, and the exceptionally favourable conditions of the preceding growing and harvest season cannot be overlooked. Although dry conditions prevailed and producers reported smaller berries early in the season, higher bunch numbers, larger bunch sizes, and favourable conditions during flowering compensated for this. This was particularly clear in early cultivars, including Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinotage and Sauvignon Blanc, where the most significant improvements compared with 2025 were recorded. Mid- and late season cultivars such as Merlot and Shiraz similarly delivered good crops, while Cabernet Sauvignon contributed with average production levels. Consequently, producers had to act swiftly to ensure that all grapes were delivered to cellars in a timely manner. In terms of harvest timing, early cultivars were, in many cases, up to two weeks earlier than normal—a trend that was observed across most cultivars, both early and late.

Dry and warm conditions promoted vigorous and healthy initial growth. Canopy development stabilised earlier than usual, primarily as

soil profiles began to dry out sooner than normal. This enabled producers to remain on schedule with canopy management, and canopy density was naturally closer to the desired balance, with a positive impact on both quality and labour inputs. Dam levels remained consistently lower than in 2025, although producers managed irrigation efficiently. Rainfall in February promoted the development of powdery mildew and downy mildew on young leaves, although impacts were limited to isolated cases. The first and only heatwave during the harvest period occurred in the second half of the season (9-13 March). Sunburn was observed but was largely confined to late Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon blocks.

Photo STB 1. Moderate vigour and good balance between canopy and fruit in Cabernet Sauvignon.

Photo STB 2. Early Sauvignon Blanc vineyards produced healthy grapes.

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