The 2026 harvest at Diemersdal Estate in Durbanville began on 19 January, quickly dispelling early concerns that the prolonged hot and dry conditions experienced across the Western Cape since November would negatively impact the season.
“From bud break and flowering last year, it was clear that the 2026 vintage showed strong potential for generous yields,” says Thys Louw, sixth-generation proprietor and winemaker at Diemersdal. “However, given the lack of rainfall during what has been a hot and windy growing season, we were uncertain whether these early indicators would fully materialise. Once again, the resilience of the vine has exceeded expectations. Despite the dry conditions and consistently high temperatures, grape volumes coming in from our vineyards are well above average.”
At this early stage of the harvest, the focus is firmly on Sauvignon Blanc, Diemersdal’s flagship variety and a key contributor to the estate’s recent recognition as Top Performing Winery of the Year in this year’s Platter’s Guide to South African Wine.
What makes the current yields particularly noteworthy is that all of Diemersdal’s vineyards are dryland farmed and receive no irrigation. “Even under sustained heat, dry conditions and persistent wind, the vines are delivering healthy, abundant fruit without the support of irrigation,” Louw explains. “Dryland vines have adapted to the elements over time, developing deeper root systems that allow them to cope with climatic extremes. In turn, they produce wines that offer the purest and most authentic expression of terroir.”
Beyond yield, grape quality is proving equally impressive. Sauvignon Blanc is being harvested at approximately 21.5° Balling, with juice measurements showing 22 g/l residual sugar, average pH levels of 3.2, and a vibrant acidity of 8.5 g/l.
“What truly stands out at this stage is the aromatics,” says Louw. “While last year delivered excellent grape quality across South Africa, the intensity and clarity of aromas we are seeing in the crushed grapes and during fermentation this season are exceptional. It points to a Sauvignon Blanc vintage of real distinction.”
Looking ahead, Louw and his team are confident that the strong performance seen in the white varieties will continue through the rest of the harvest. Pinotage, Diemersdal’s flagship red, has now begun arriving on the crush pad, signalling the next phase of what promises to be an outstanding 2026 vintage.
