Sustainable wine
South Africa is leading the world in production integrity.
- Since 1974, our Wine of Origin scheme guarantees the information on the label that states where the grapes came from, the vintage year and the variety or varieties. (www.sawis.co.za)
- South Africa introduced guidelines on sustainability as early as 1998. Over 95% of the growers and cellars stick to the guidelines. (www.ipw.co.za)
- These guidelines are constantly improved, and independent auditors audit the farms and cellars. If the farms pass the audit, they can use the new sustainability seal.
- South African producers are extremely conservation conscious. In the past five years, they have set aside nearly 120 000 hectares as conservation land, and committed to restoring it back to its original pristine nature. (www.bwi.co.za)
From the 2010 vintage, South African wines have a new official seal.
What does it mean?
This seal means that the Wine and Spirit Board, appointed by the Department of Agriculture, certifies that
- The vintage, variety and origin that are shown on the label are correct.
- The wine has been produced sustainably, in an earth-friendly manner.
- The wine can be traced all the way from the vine to the bottle.
- It was bottled in South Africa – so it is 100% South African!
Check it out! Go to www.swsa.co.za and enter the numbers on your seal.
