CapeWine 2025 Draws Global Delegates and Showcases South African Wine Industry’s Growth

CapeWine 2025 concluded after three days of activity in Cape Town, drawing 1,605 delegates from more than 60 countries. The event, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, has become the leading showcase for South African wine, attracting buyers, importers, and media from key markets such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and several African nations.

The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by John Steenhuisen, South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture. He highlighted the wine industry’s role in job creation and tourism and emphasized its growing influence on the global stage. His remarks set a positive tone for the event, which ran under the theme “Our Warmest Welcome.”

Throughout the three days, attendees had access to hundreds of local producers presenting their latest vintages and innovations. The show floor was busy with meetings and tastings as international visitors explored new business opportunities. Many participants noted that the atmosphere was collaborative and optimistic, with expectations of new trade agreements and partnerships emerging from the event.

CapeWine 2025 marked its tenth edition this year. Longstanding sponsors DHL and Hillebrand Gori supported the event for a fourth time. The program included six formal seminars in the John Deere Seminar area, where experts discussed topics such as sustainability, export trends, and market challenges. The Amorim Speaker’s Corner hosted ten informal sessions that encouraged open dialogue among producers and visitors. Another highlight was the Johnsson Workwear Theme Tasting area, where delegates sampled 120 wines across ten themed tastings.

A significant moment came on the final day when Wines of South Africa (WoSA) revealed new branding for the industry. The updated logo and strapline “There’s Sunshine Inside” reflect a focus on innovation and sustainability as South African wine seeks to expand its global reach.

Siobhan Thompson, CEO of WoSA, commented on the event’s impact: “CapeWine 2025 truly lived up to its theme. The engagement from international buyers and media shows how strong our position is worldwide. This event was about building connections and inspiring growth.”

The next edition of CapeWine is scheduled for 2028. Organizers expect continued growth in attendance and influence as South Africa’s wine industry builds on its reputation for quality and hospitality.