24 January 2024 — Listening to feedback from producers, Vinpro has this year split its Vinpro-Nedbank information days into two separate sessions, hosting the first day at Allée Bleue in Franschhoek, and the following day at Leipzig Farm in Worcester. The result was fruitful discussions on both sides of the Du Toitskloof mountain.
The new format is a reflection of its client-centred values, explained Vinpro CEO Conrad Schutte. The streamlined event also revealed a nimbler and more technical-oriented Vinpro. “One of the biggest shifts with the founding of South Africa Wine is that Vinpro can focus on its foundational strengths, specifically its technical and consultation services, where our agricultural economists will also play an integral role,” Conrad says.
“Our affiliate Vititec will always be important in terms of plant improvement and commercial grafting facilities, which is the bedrock of production. WineMS provides farm, bulk and production management as well as traceability, while Gen-Z Vineyards of the Future takes care of long-term value. It’s a complete package, which we will continue to tweak in collaboration with our members.”
Vinpro’s team of viticultural consultants, headed by Dr Etienne Terblanche, comprise the engine room for providing regional analyses and expertise.
Global challenges
Vinpro chairman Anton Smuts was honest about the challenges and harsh trading realities currently facing the wine industry, but urged stakeholders to focus on positive outcomes and opportunities. “The industry’s future is in our own hands, and if we don’t do something ourselves and support one another, no one else will,” he said. “Since opening Vinpro’s doors in 2003, we have experienced remarkable growth alongside our producers, continuously adapting and expanding our services while cultivating stronger connections with government and industry stakeholders. We’re committed to our shared objective of sustainable growth so that producers can continue to produce world-class grapes and wines.”
Daneel Rossouw, head of sales for agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, underscored this role, noting a concerning downward trend in production while profitability and competitiveness remains under pressure. Nedbank pledged its continued support for the industry and its communities to help address these challenges through strategic partnerships and tailored financing solutions.
Technical solutions
Vinpro has come a long way from an extension services provider under KWV to its new role as a proud member of the newly established industry body South Africa Wine. “We began providing technical consultation services back in 1979, and today these services amount to approximately 700 hours per annum – of which 400 goes to new entrants in the market,” says Conrad. “Over the past seven years we’ve trained more than 5000 farm workers, while our agricultural economists process data from about 270 producers to provide an excellent benchmark of what’s going on in the different wine-grape regions.”
In its capacity as a technical service provider, Vinpro will continue its mandate to empower vine growers and wine producers to reach new heights, representing producers in discussions with government and through its advocacy in relevant wine industry forums.
“Our vision for growing together remains the same, but our purpose is to convert technical knowledge into tangible solutions across every aspect of production so that our clients and our members can consistently produce better quality products of the vine for profitable yields to ensure they can prosper.”
Referring to research by well-known futurist Dr Morné Mostert, resilient companies are characterised by “connected minds” – the sharing of ideas and information within companies and with peers. “Days like today are important so that we can learn from each other and become more resilient,” Conrad says.
Christi van den Heever, Agri Western Cape-Santam Young Farmer 2023 presents his vision for the future.
The future
Although mainly a fruit producer, Christi van den Heever, the Agri Western Cape–Santam Young Farmer of the Year for 2023, also produces wine grapes – specifically a high-altitude Shiraz. He sees diversification as an important means to mitigate production risks. “It isn’t good to have all your eggs in the same basket,” he says. “See what you can do in your climate and region. Capital for development is often a challenge, but look for partners who have something to offer and who can walk the road with you.”
Christi will be implementing a hydroelectric solution for energy security and to reduce the cost of load shedding. “We’re building a million-cubic meter dam that will become our battery system. Solar pumps will pump water to the dam during the day, and the pressure will supply electricity to the farm and community during load shedding.”
The situation at South Africa’s ports remains the most significant challenge facing producers, especially in the wine industry. “A cellar only has a limited capacity, and if the harvest comes in but the harbour prevents you from exporting your wine, where do you go?”
Christi’s travels in Europe have convinced him of the need to identify climate resilient grape varieties. Technology such as moisture probes, water pressures meters, and innovative netting systems can further help mitigate risks. He mentioned kites he imports, shaped like a falcon, which moves with the wind to scare away birds.
But people remain the greatest asset for success in agriculture today, he says. “It’s not about the prizes you win or how good your wines are; it’s about the legacy you leave. Who are the people following in your footsteps? Who have you empowered you’re your knowledge and experience?”
“It’s important to see the value in people and to keep them motivated. I challenge every producer and land-owner to extend a hand to students in agriculture and create opportunities for them to gain experience. The more I can expose young people to agriculture, the more I’m building a foundation for the leaders of tomorrow.”
