Cape Wine 2018 pulls in record visitor numbers

By Michelle Perrett

Published: 28 September, 2018

Wines of South Africa’s Cape Wine has seen an increase in visitor numbers of 27% on the previous event held in 2015.

The show, which runs every three years, attracted 2,414 visitors from 66 different countries, up from 56 in 2015, and showcased wines from 352 producers.

Cape Wine 2018 included seminars, themed tastings and events in and around the Cape winelands, either side of the three-day trade show, which was held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 12 to 14 September 2018.

The theme of Cape Wine 2018 was Hannuwa, which alludes to the 200,000-year-old Khio-San word that describes the philosophy of man living in harmony with nature.

The opening seminar, entitled ‘Creating a Sustainable Future’ saw a range of speakers highlight various topics around environmental, social and financial sustainability within the industry.

Siobhan Thompson, CEO of Wines of South Africa, said the organisation was proud of the progress made by the industry it the quality and recognition of its wines.

“Cape Wine 2018 saw important discussions raised over the future of our industry and what we need to do to sustain it in the long term,” she said.

“Our winemakers stand tall among their international counterparts with wines that have a real sense of place, have elegance and finesse, and stylistic qualities that reflect a true South African identity.”

The event organisers said that feedback from visitors at the show was positive.

Victoria Mason buyer for Waitrose, said: “I was completely blown away by Cape Wine 2018 – the quality and diversity of wines on show, the passion of the people behind the wines, the level of excitement all week from guests and exhibitors, the ‘extra-curricular’ programme of events and tastings, and the optimism and determination of the industry as a whole in the face of some significant external challenges.”

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