Where does South African wines stand

Boela Gerber, Groot Constantia Winemaker

Where does South African wines stand, is the question most winemakers faced when interviewed. “There is no definite answer” chimed Boela, Groot Constantia winemaker.  

If volume is anything to go by, South Africa lies 7^th in volume produced in 2016¹. For wine geeks, in 2017 Spain was the number one exporter with 2’320 million litres and a global market share of 21%². South African wines have shown a growth of an average of 2-3% in volume through the decade. An indication of increase in demand surely.

With steady growth, one would think that in the global scene, it would be a walk in the park for people to select South African wines. Not quite so. Just the other day, a VVIP was selecting 500 btls of wines for his event. It was a showdown, between South African wines against USA.
Tasting, showed South African wines as winners
Product presentation, showed South African wines as winners.

Bevan of Newton Johnson showing where is Hemel en Aarde Appelation 

When it came to the crunch, they picked the American wines. Perception, perhaps one of the hardest things to change was the key obstacle. “Still fighting”, quipped Rob, co-owner of Remhoogte Winery. 

Rob Boustred, Co-Owner Remhoogte

That perception pushed South African wines down below 7^th. It will take years of “fighting”, to change perceptions.

“South Africa is one of the most value for money for food and wines”, remarked Gerald the current President of the Sommeliers association of Singapore. Groot Constantia wines for example has won multiple awards, climaxing in the recent Chardonnay du Monde award³. A wine that you think would command, a triple digit price tag. It's price ~$84. If price to quality ratio was anything to go by, South African wines are easily among the top 3 in the world. 

Gerald Lu, President of Somm Association of Singapore with Du Toit of Eagle's Nest

Though the country is still finding its ideological 'roots', the foundations have been laid for a successful decade ahead. The signs are showing that demand is certainly growing. Distributors are also more willing to pick up South African wines. In the words of Rob, there is more battles and fights ahead. 

Gerard Zhang

11.    https://www.wosa.co.za/The-Industry/Statistics/World-Statistics/

22.    http://www.sawis.co.za/info/download/Wereld_en_Plaaslike_Nuus_Eng_2018.pdf

33.    https://www.grootconstantia.co.za/south-african-chardonnay-judged-best-in-the-world/