While most of the world’s wine regions track their history by centuries and vague archaeological finds, South Africa holds something far more precise: a birth certificate. On 2 February 1659, Jan van Riebeeck made a simple but momentous entry in his diary: “Today, praise be to God, wine was pressed for the first time from Cape grapes.”
As of today, 20 January, we are in the heart of the “Birthday Season.” With the 2026 harvest already beginning in many regions, the nation is gearing up for a milestone 367 years of winemaking excellence. But this isn’t just a history lesson; it is a nationwide call to celebrate the spirit, resilience, and world-class innovation of our local vines.
The Evolution: From Provisions to Prestige
The journey from that first wooden press to the state-of-the-art cellars of 2026 is a story of radical transformation. For centuries, the Cape was famous for the legendary sweet wines of Constantia, craved by European emperors.
Today, the industry has pivoted from those traditional roots to become a global powerhouse of diversity. South Africa is currently the “cool kid” of the wine world, blending Old World structure with a fearless New World energy—leading the charge in sustainable farming and the preservation of heritage old vines.
A Legacy in Transition
To understand how 367 years of heritage tastes today, we look to those who protect the craft and those who are reimagining it.
The Heritage Custodians: The late Jan “Boland” Coetzee, a titan of the industry who passed away in late 2025, left an indelible mark on the soil of Stellenbosch. At Vriesenhof, the team continues to honour his philosophy that “wine is the environment.” His legacy reminds the industry that excellence is the result of three centuries of learning which grape belongs in which pocket of earth.
The New Guard: Representing the future is Tinashe Nyamudoka, a world-renowned sommelier and founder of Kumusha Wines. Operating as a négociant, Tinashe collaborates with farms across the Western Cape—most notably Opstal in the Slanghoek Valley—to blend wines that tell a story of origin. “For my generation, the 1659 heritage is a foundation, not a cage,” Tinashe explains. “We are taking those 367 years of experience and adding a new layer of creativity.”
Join the 2026 Celebration: The Harvest Highlights
The next few weeks offer a rare chance to see the industry in its most raw and festive state. From the clatter of harvest bins to glamorous celebrations, here is where to be:
Stellenbosch Street Soirées (28 Jan, 11 & 25 Feb): These popular bi-weekly events transform Drostdy Street into a pedestrian-only wine hub from 18:00 to 20:00. For R250, you get a glass and tokens to sample wines from various estates right on the sidewalk—the ultimate “lifestyle” way to toast the birthday month.
The Birthday Bash at One&Only (Friday, 30 January): A “squeeze of orange” is this year’s theme. Celebrating 367 years of evolution, this event at the V&A Waterfront focuses on the skin-contact “orange wine” trend with a ceremonial sabrage.
The Stellenbosch Harvest Parade (Saturday, 31 January): The town of Stellenbosch will come alive at 09:00 as the iconic parade returns. Expect decorated tractors, floats, and the joyous faces of the vineyard teams. The procession culminates at the Town Hall for the traditional Blessing of the Harvest.
The Cape Wine Auction (Saturday, 7 February): Hosted at the historic Nederburg in Paarl, this is a “rockstar party for a good cause.” While the main auction is high-stakes, “The Celebration” ticket offers a vibrant afternoon of music (featuring MiCasa and Lloyiso), gourmet food stations, and curated wine stands.
Sundaze with a View (25 Jan & 8 Feb): Head to Durbanville Hills for a laid-back Sunday of DJs, wine slushies, and panoramic views of Table Mountain—perfect for a relaxed birthday toast.
Wine Harvest Commemorative Event (Thursday, 5 February): The season reaches its peak at Groot Constantia. This prestigious black-tie event officially blesses the 2026 crop and honors industry legends with the 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership.
Harvest at Dusk with Nederburg (Saturday, 28 February): Close out the month by getting your hands dirty. Pick and stomp grapes under the stars followed by a heritage-paired dinner.
As we raise a glass this season, remember that every bottle of South African wine contains a piece of that 367-year timeline. You are drinking a story that began with a single diary entry and grew into a world-class legacy.
Happy Birthday, SA Wine!
