December 2005

The Cape’s Closely ‘Guilded’ Secret

By: Charlie Hardie (Cellar Master at Browns of Rivonia)

Founded in 1982, the Cape Winemakers Guild is an association of winemakers dedicated to promoting innovation and excellence in the art of winemaking in South Africa. All wines go through an extremely rigorous selection process and will only gain acceptance if the wine, in the opinion of the Guild, is representative of the highest quality and standards. This is actually a very important point as it demonstrates the self-regulation of the Guild which has always been one of its strength. Reputation is everything and the harshest and the fairest of judges are your peers. These wines are showcased at an annual auction and the prices reached bears eloquent testimony to their craftsmanship and quality.

Since 1999 the Guild, through a development trust, has also been actively involved in the social upliftment of previously disadvantaged communities. To that end, they conduct a charity auction, the proceeds of which go towards training and education within the Cape Wine Industry.