Nominations Open For 1659 Awards Recognising Visionary Leadership And Industry Innovation

Source: Supplied | uccess Lekabe, Master of Ceremonies at the 2026 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event

Nominations close on 3 August 2026.

Categories include:

• 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership – recognising essential contributions that have left a lasting impact and created a unique legacy.• Viti- and Viniculture Category – honouring innovative ideas and methodologies that advance the wine-making industry.• Wine Advancement Category – celebrating contributions that enhance the image and responsible use of wine while elevating the South African wine industry.• Growing Inclusivity Category – recognising efforts to eliminate barriers and help build a more inclusive industry.• Wine Agri-Worker Category – honouring agri-workers for their vital contribution to the sustainability and growth of the industry.

Celebrating South Africa's wine heritage

The Wine Harvest Commemorative Event marks the start of the harvest season while commemorating the birth of South Africa's wine industry on 2 February 1659, when the first wine made from Cape grapes was recorded.

Held annually at Groot Constantia, the event celebrates the people, heritage and excellence that continue to shape South African wine.

Past recipients include Nelson Mandela, Norma Ratcliffe and Unsung Wine Workers. The 2026 honourees were the Retief family of Van Loveren, Denzel Swarts, Pieter Ferreira, Charl Theron and Wilfred Fortuin.

How to nominate

Nominations must be submitted using the official nomination form available on the Wine Harvest Commemorative Event website.

Recipients will be selected by an independent panel and announced at the 2027 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event, to be held on Thursday, 4 February 2027, at Groot Constantia Wine Estate in Cape Town.