The Covid-19 Impact On The South African Wine Industry
"The storm clouds are moving in, the light is fading, and the impending dark is seething with malevolence for the South African [wine] industry" - Bruce Jack
South Africa was one of the first countries we visited when we began filming The Wine Show. In our first ever episode, we learned about its long winemaking heritage at Klein Constantia. We explored its extraordinary biodiversity in Robertson, and travelled from the luxury of Stellenbosch to the Philippi Township where winemaking is changing lives.
But today South Africa's wine industry is facing a crisis. Winemaker Bruce Jack wrote a recent article about how devastating Covid 19 has been for him and his colleagues. But also how they are collaborating. And joining forces to feed local communities left with nothing. "Something breaks inside you when the eyes of a barefoot child in a food queue are full of fear. Where there should be carefree joy, hunger has displaced with confusion and panic. It’s not right."
Wine never stands alone from the triumphs and tragedies of the rest of the world. It's often caught in the eye of the storm. For South Africa's winemakers, that storm is upon them. Many families (often consisting of 6 individuals or more) have lost their only source of income as a result of the strict lockdown measures in South Africa as a result of COVID-19. Bruce is working with The Headstart Trust to raise funds to feed local families.
But winemakers also need to make sure they can sell the wine they make. And ensure there's demand for South Africa's fabulous wines when they can finally export again. We can make a real difference in the choices we make over the next weeks and months.
If you would like to donate to the Covid-19 Rural Food Relief Fund - you can do so here.