In a splendid prelude to the official birthday of South African wine, the wine industry gathered at the historic Groot Constantia to honour its members’ remarkable achievements and celebrate the 2024 Wine Harvest with a night of elegance, education, and recognition.
The evening commenced with a heartfelt blessing of the harvest, setting a tone of gratitude and hope for the year ahead. The atmosphere was further enriched by the melodious performances of a local opera quartet, whose renditions of classic pieces added a touch of grandeur to the festivities.
Highlighting the event were the prestigious awards presented to four distinguished individuals, each a beacon of innovation, dedication, and leadership within the wine industry.
GROWING INCLUSIVITY CATEGORY The person or institution who receives recognition in the Growing Inclusivity Category should be a recipient who has set an inspirational example by paving the way for others through the elimination of barriers, contributing to the knowledge that others can use, and having an overall effect on the image of the South African wine industry.
Ilse Ruthford of Compagniesdrift was the recipient of the Recognition for Growing Inclusivity Award. Ruthford’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity within the wine sector has not only fostered a more diverse industry but has also inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in paving the way for a more inclusive wine industry.
WINE ADVANCEMENT CATEGORY
The person or institution who receives recognition in the Wine Advancement Category should have made noticeable contributions towards the image of wine and the responsible use of it, as well as building the image of the South African wine industry through their reach.
Cathy Marston, South Africa’s leading wine educator, was honoured with the Recognition for Wine Advancement Award. Through her work with The Wine Centre and her efforts in facilitating WSET global qualifications, Marston has played a pivotal role in elevating wine education across Africa and beyond. Her passion for wine and education has nurtured a new generation of wine enthusiasts and professionals.
VITICULTURE AND VINICULTURE CATEGORY The person or institution who receives recognition in the Viti- and Viniculture Category should have developed new ideas, technologies, and methods within the wine-making industry, implementing and transferring these ideas and methodologies, changing mindsets, and ultimately benefit the South African wine industry overall.
The Recognition for Viticulture and Viniculture Award was bestowed upon Dawid Saayman, a veteran with over 50 years of experience in the industry. Saayman’s profound impact on viticulture and viniculture has been felt across the South African wine landscape, marking him as a true stalwart of the industry.
THE 1659 VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AWARD
The person or institution who receives recognition in the 1659 Visionary Leadership Award category, should have made an essential contribution towards the industry, of which there must be substantial evidence. The industry (or a specific aspect thereof) must have been positively influenced by it and must have had a lasting impact, with all indications of a special legacy. It must be worthy of praise and significantly change people’s thinking and lives. There must be clear indications of intellectual conceptualisation of the idea, which must be creative, innovative and unique and has already been proven in practice.It should encourage and inspire others in the industry to do the same or even better.
The evening’s highest honour, the 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership, was awarded to Tim Hutchinson of DGB. Hutchinson’s relentless drive and innovative approach have significantly contributed to the advancement and improvement of the wine industry. His leadership and foresight have not only propelled DGB to new heights but have also served as a catalyst for positive change within the broader wine community.
As we celebrate the official birthday of South African wine, these awards remind us of the passion, dedication, and innovation that continue to drive the industry forward. The 2024 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event at Groot Constantia has not only paid tribute to the individual achievements of its award recipients but has also celebrated the collective spirit and heritage of South African wine.
