The Story of Sauvignon Blanc Comes to Life at Woordfees

Sauvignon Blanc
Spier Cellar Master Johan Jordaan will lead a guided Sauvignon Blanc tasting and conversation at the 2026 Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees on Thursday, 8 October, exploring the diversity, character and stories behind South African Sauvignon Blanc – with wines from 11 producers available to taste.

One cultivar. Eleven producers. A hundred stories—and plenty to taste.

How many stories can one grape tell? Visitors will soon find out at Die Storie van Sauvignon Blanc, an interactive book conversation and wine tasting hosted at the 2026 Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees on Thursday, 8 October.

Presented by Sauvignon Blanc South Africa—the non-profit cultivar organisation dedicated to promoting South African Sauvignon Blanc—in collaboration with Stellenbosch Wine Routes, the event offers wine enthusiasts an insider’s look into the diversity, terroir, and character of one of South Africa’s most celebrated white wines.

A Stellar Lineup of Stellenbosch Producers

Hosted by Spier Cellar Master Johan Jordaan, the one-hour experience brings together an exceptional showcase of Stellenbosch winemaking excellence. The tasting will feature iconic wines from 11 renowned regional producers: Bertha Wines, Kleine Zalze, Le Grand Domaine, Neethlingshof, Neil Ellis, Spier, Thelema, Vergelegen, Villiera, Visio Vintners, and Zorgvliet.

Several winemakers and producers will be present to share their personal perspectives while Jordaan guides guests through a formal tasting of selected wines. The conversation will explore the cultivar’s dynamic spectrum, ranging from crisp, fresh, coastal-influenced styles to rich, complex vintages crafted with the structure to age beautifully over time.

A Milestone Publication for SA Wine

At the heart of the gathering is The Story of South African Sauvignon Blanc, the first definitive book dedicated to the cultivar in South Africa. Published in September 2025 by Sauvignon Blanc South Africa alongside Tip Africa Publishing, the 248-page coffee-table volume weaves together 100 rich stories from the people, places, and historic estates that shaped the country’s Sauvignon Blanc journey. Readers and tasters can also explore a custom 72-profile aroma wheel created specifically for the publication.

Event Details & How to Book

Tickets are priced at R550 per person, offering exceptional value. Each ticket includes a copy of The Story of South African Sauvignon Blanc (valued at R495), a guided wine tasting, and access to the discussion.

  • Date & Time: Thursday, 8 October 2026 | 18:00 – 19:00
  • Venue: Hofmeyr-saal, Church Street, Stellenbosch
  • Language: Presented in Afrikaans and English
  • Bookings: Available via Quicket

To learn more about South Africa’s vibrant Sauvignon Blanc culture, visit www.sauvignonblanc.com or reach out via email at [email protected].