Q&A with Changemakers Honoured at 2026 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event 

The 2026 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event celebrated the people, passion, and progress shaping South Africa’s wine industry—an industry rooted in over 360 years of winemaking heritage, with an estimated 17 million glasses of South African wine enjoyed globally every day. This year, five industry leaders were honoured for their contributions reflecting resilience, innovation, and inclusivity: the Retief family of Van Loveren received the 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership; Denzel Swarts was recognised in the Growing Inclusivity category; Pieter Ferreira in Wine Advancement; Charl Theron in Viti- and Viniculture; and Wilfred Fortuin in the Wine Agri-Worker category.

A Global Reputation Built on Quality

Hosted by Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm, the annual event brings together industry leaders, stakeholders, and partners to reflect on a year of achievement. With South Africa producing award-winning wines from diverse terroirs, earning over 100 international accolades annually, the occasion celebrates both individual success and the global standing of the country’s wine industry.

“Every harvest is a calculated risk, from weather and input costs to labour and global demand. This is where banking becomes a partner for growth. Standard Bank works with producers to structure practical, fit-for-farm solutions that strengthen cash flow and keep the wine value chain resilient, sustainable, and proudly rooted in South Africa,” says Brendan Jacobs, Head of Agribusiness at Standard Bank, and long-term platinum sponsor of the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event.

Set against the backdrop of a country with an average of 300 days of sunshine each year, the 2026 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event captured the essence of South African wine: vibrant, resilient, and full of promise.

Celebrating This Year’s Distinguished Honourees

Phillip Retief – 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership

Q: You’ve built recognisable brands like Four Cousins and Almost Zero. What makes a wine brand truly resonate with consumers today?

A: One of the key elements of any brand is that it’s a promise you keep to the consumer. What you offer, why they choose your brand, and how it connects through price, packaging, style, quality, and story—consumers identify with that story.

Denzel Swarts – Growing Inclusivity

Q: You’ve broken through significant racial and socio-economic barriers in the industry. What kept you motivated during those early challenges?

A: My passion and the inspiration from my upbringing as a farm child. I carry the dreams and visions of farm workers on my shoulders, becoming a beacon of hope for their children.

Pieter Ferreira – Wine Advancement

Q: You’ve said “bubbles are in your blood.” What is it about Cap Classique that inspires lifelong dedication?

A: It’s the effervescence that keeps you going. Each day is an opportunity to grow the category. Cap Classique, uniquely South African, has huge opportunities locally and internationally and has become a benchmark as a better alternative to champagne.

Altus Theron on behalf of Charl Theron – Viti- and Viniculture

Q: What qualities are essential for success in the wine industry today?

A: The right attitude and hunger to learn. With an open mind, the right knowledge, and experience, success is achievable despite industry challenges.

Wilfred Fortuin – Wine Agri-Worker

Q: What makes vineyard and cellar workers essential to the wine industry?

A: The process starts in the vineyard. Caring for the vineyard ensures quality in the bottle and secures jobs, making the agricultural sector crucial to the South African economy.

By recognising these individuals, the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event pays tribute to the past while raising a glass to the future. The event is supported by Groot Constantia, Standard Bank, and sponsors including Air France-KLM, Western Cape Department of Agriculture, South Africa Wine, Die Burger, Seabourne Logistics, SmileFM, and Vinpro.

“For us, wine is part of the journey,” says Wilson Tauro, Country Manager for Southern Africa at Air France–KLM. “From Champagne on Air France flights to South African wines on KLM long-haul flights, our connections bring travellers directly to Cape Town to experience its wine culture. The Wine Harvest reminds us why South African wine is globally admired for its provenance, quality, and authenticity.”