The annual Wine Harvest Commemorative Event held on South Africa’s oldest wine-producing estate, Groot Constantia in Cape Town, witnessed the formal recognition of four remarkable individuals on February 2, 2023. This event, deeply ingrained in the South African wine industry’s tradition, not only celebrates the birth of the nation’s wine industry 364 years ago but also inspires a heightened level of excellence in an inclusive manner. The ceremony, which pays tribute to the pioneers who have paved the way for future generations, took place on this historic occasion and honored individuals across four categories: Visionary Leadership, Growing Inclusivity, Wine Advancement, and Viti- and Viniculture.
Dr. Ernest Messina, Chairperson of Groot Constantia, expressed his satisfaction at witnessing the growing influence and reach of this annual event. “Year after year, a diverse range of wine professionals are nominated for recognition,” stated Dr. Messina. “This reflects our commitment to honor all contributors to our esteemed wine industry. By acknowledging the 2023 honorees, we hope to inspire even greater achievements within the industry.”
THE 1659 AWARD FOR VISIONARY LEADERSHIP: KEN FORRESTER
Ken Forrester, affectionately known as “Mr. Chenin,” was honored with the esteemed 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership. Recognized for his unparalleled contribution to the advancement and global acclaim of the Chenin Blanc cultivar, Forrester has significantly elevated the reputation of South African Chenin, making him a deserving recipient of one of the highest accolades in the nation’s wine industry.
Born in Zambia, Forrester’s journey led him to South Africa, where he pursued Hotel Management at the Johannesburg Hotel School. His career in hospitality eventually transitioned to the restaurant industry, culminating in his election as Chairman of the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (FEDHASA). A pivotal moment occurred during a visit to the Cape in the early 1990s, where Forrester acquired the historic Scholtzenhof Farm in Stellenbosch, marking his entry into the world of winemaking. This marked the genesis of his passionate connection with the Chenin Blanc cultivar, and despite challenges and setbacks, Forrester successfully propelled South African Chenin onto the global stage.
In 1998, Forrester co-founded the Chenin Blanc Association of South Africa, leading to the establishment of South Africa as the largest cultivator of Chenin Blanc worldwide. Through the Association’s tireless efforts, Chenin’s status was elevated through research initiatives, resulting in groundbreaking achievements, including the development of the world’s first multi-language aroma wheel.
Under Forrester’s guidance, the value of Chenin Blanc production skyrocketed from R290.6 billion in 1998 to R888.7 billion in 2020. He also spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering wine worker communities through contributions amounting to R2.1 million.
Forrester’s visionary approach has propelled South African wine, particularly Chenin Blanc, onto the global stage, showcasing how vision and determination can conquer new horizons in a competitive global market. His enduring legacy serves as an inspiring example for future generations.
GROWING INCLUSIVITY CATEGORY: RYDAL JEFTHA
The 2023 honoree in the Growing Inclusivity category is Rydal Jeftha, the CEO and Managing Director of Koopmanskloof Vineyards for the past 16 years. This award recognizes an individual or institution that has set an inspirational example, broken barriers, contributed valuable knowledge, and positively impacted the image of the South African wine industry.
Jeftha has long been a frontrunner, leveraging his extensive experience and effective leadership to drive significant initiatives:
Empowerment Drive: Under Jeftha’s leadership, Thandi Wines emerged as South Africa’s first genuinely broad-based BEE wine company and the largest black-owned wine exporting company. Within two years, Thandi’s sales surged from 500 cases to 42,000 cases.
Embracing Fairtrade: Koopmanskloof, under Jeftha’s guidance, transitioned from a local bulk wine producer to a global bulk and packaged wine exporter, becoming one of the world’s largest Fairtrade exporters.
Emerging Agriculture: Jeftha achieved recognition as a finalist for the Toyota Emerging Farmer of the Year and Cape Chamber of Commerce Exporter of the Year awards.
With a career spanning 42 years in agriculture and two decades in the wine industry, Jeftha’s contributions extend to institutions such as Lourensford, Capespan, and Vinfruco. His involvement as a board member of Vinpro and Wines of South Africa (WoSA) showcases his dedication to nurturing emerging generations of farmers and winemakers. As a mentor and inspirational leader, he offers hope and a future-focused perspective to those facing entry barriers into the industry.
WINE ADVANCEMENT CATEGORY: WENDY JONKER
In the Wine Advancement category, Wendy Jonker, appointed by the Minister of Agriculture as Administering Officer of the Liquor Products Act, was recognized for her notable contributions to promoting responsible wine use and enhancing the image of the South African wine industry on a global scale.
As Administering Officer, Jonker plays a pivotal role in representing South Africa in discussions and negotiations as a wine expert within the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) and the World Wine Trade Group (WWTG). Her accomplishments in enhancing the governance environment for the wine industry include streamlining the export process through an online platform and advocating for South Africa’s wine interests in international agreements.
Jonker’s work behind the scenes has played a crucial role in expanding opportunities for the South African wine industry on a global stage, consistently driving the industry’s progress and sustainability.
VITI- AND VINICULTURE CATEGORY: DR. ERNA BLANCQUAERT
Dr. Erna Blancquaert, a distinguished viticulture lecturer and researcher, is the recipient of the 2023 honoree in the Viti- and Viniculture category. This accolade recognizes individuals who have introduced innovative ideas, technologies, and methodologies to the winemaking industry, positively impacting the South African wine sector as a whole.
As a lecturer in Grapevine and Wine Sciences at Stellenbosch University, Dr. Blancquaert also serves as a Postgraduate Supervisor, guiding students in various fields related to agriculture and biotechnology. Her groundbreaking achievements include being the first black South African to earn a PhD in Viticulture in 2015.
Dr. Blancquaert’s accomplishments encompass academia, industry, and international collaborations:
Awards: She has received numerous awards, including the South African Wine Industry Trust scholarship and the Fulbright African Research Scholar Award.
Industry Engagement: Dr. Blancquaert serves on scientific journal review panels and holds positions in various industry bodies, representing the national Minister of Agriculture on the Deciduous Fruit Industry Development Trust.
International Leadership: She mentors for the New York Academy of Sciences “1000 Girls, 1000 Futures” program and leads the international consortium VitaGlobal, which focuses on enhancing local development through universities.
Dr. Blancquaert’s dedication to excellence, empowerment, and addressing industry prejudices positions her as a leading figure in viticulture, inspiring future generations and fostering meaningful change in the wine industry.
CELEBRATING THE 2023 WINE HARVEST COMMEMORATIVE EVENT
Individuals worldwide can join in the virtual celebration of the 2023 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event. Visit www.sawineharvest.co.za for more information about the event, the honored individuals, and the broader South African wine industry.
