South Africa is 'Proudly New World Wine-Making Country': Winemaker
South Africa is 'Proudly New World Wine-Making Country': Winemaker
South Africa prides itself on freedom in winemaking, allowing experimentation with grape growing and blending without regional or appellation restrictions, Caroline Ngwenya, Founder and CEO of The High Cellar and Majesty Wines, told Sputnik Africa.
She said this freedom is a core part of South Africa’s identity, unlike in traditional wine countries, and the nation takes pride in it while presenting its wines to global markets.
Ngwenya explained that regulations play a major role in trade, providing certification and legalizing export-import processes, but they need to be revised to simplify trade. Depending on how laws are applied, they can either hinder or facilitate access to markets, including premium ones, she added.
The winemaker also emphasized the importance of African unity, saying a BRICS-style alliance is necessary.
"If Africa really unites and there's an easy travel of African citizens within Africa, with one united law, that will make everything else fall in place."
Africans should make it easier to access each other’s products, with South Africa leading in wine while learning from other countries’ key exports, Ngwenya said. She stressed the need for a continental platform to facilitate trade, movement, and economic growth across Africa.
If African nations prioritize and value each other’s products, she believes it could challenge Western producers and boost recognition of African countries as major producers of wine and other goods over the next two decades, Ngwenya stated.
Watch the video to see how South African wines are shaking off old stereotypes and gaining global recognition, proving Africa is a rising force in winemaking.
Subscribe to @sputnik_africa
