Vinpro Technical Harvest Report 2026

Summary The 2025-2026 season delivered one of the driest spring and early summer periods in recent years. In contrast to this lead-up to the growing season, one of the wettest Februaries on record was experienced, followed by extremely hot conditions in March. These weather patterns resulted in a clearly defined three-phase harvest in 2026: the first phase prior to the February rainfall, the second between the rainfall and the March heatwave, and the third from that point through to the end of the harvest. The first phase was favourable, with good grape analytical results recorded. The second phase presented challenges in terms of grape health. The third phase led to high sugar levels and dehydration in red grapes, posing challenges for producers. Despite these challenges, an above average crop was realised and suc cessfully processed by cellars. The higher production levels are expected to help maintain favourable cost structures within cellars. Cellars and winemakers were able to make timely decisions under challenging conditions, adapting effectively by allocating grapes to appropriate product streams and adjusting processing ap proaches accordingly.

Photo WO 2. Slight rot visible at the base of a Chenin Blanc bunch. It was a season of two halves, starting well with excellent Chardonnay yields and ending strongly with surprisingly good-quality Colombar. Challenges were plentiful after the heavy rainfall – but that’s something we seem to say every year! – Gert van Deventer, Production Manager, Aan de Doorns Wine Cellar “

WORCESTER WINE OLIVE ROUTE - NUY WINERY VINEYARDS

Callie Coetzee | 083 526 1486 | callie@vinpro.co.za

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