After a challenging 2024 marked by extreme weather conditions, including floods and strong winds, early indications for the 2025 harvest are very optimistic. This report combines in-depth data from Quoin Rock’s vineyards with insights from industry sources, including Vinpro and the South African Wine Information and Systems (SAWIS), to assess the quality and potential of this year’s grape yield.
Weather and vineyard conditions
The 2024 post-harvest period was characterized by warm, dry, and windy conditions, which helped maintain healthy vine canopies. While coastal regions experienced some wind damage and early winter rainfall was lower than expected, record-breaking rains in July replenished irrigation reserves, ensuring adequate water availability for the growing season (SA Wine, 2025).
At Quoin Rock, the harvest so far has been moderate, with very good summer temperatures. These conditions have allowed us to harvest grapes at lower phenolic ripeness and lower sugar levels, which is beneficial for the long-term health of our vineyards. Additionally, we are currently 10 days behind last year’s schedule, which means our grapes are receiving extra hang time—an additional 10 days to develop their phenolic flavors properly, ultimately contributing to enhanced complexity in the wines.
2025 harvest outlook
The 2025 harvest is expected to be an improvement over 2024’s record-low yield. Early forecasts indicate a crop on par with the 2023 harvest of 1.183 million tonnes, the second-smallest crop in the past two decades (Farmer’s Weekly, 2025). However, the improved weather conditions and water reserve build-up since winter have positioned producers for a more stable and promising yield.
Dr. Etienne Terblanche, head of Vinpro consultation services, noted that "the growing season has benefited from favourable winter rainfall patterns and a moderate spring, which have supported even budding and healthy vine growth." He emphasized that while the national vineyard area continues to decline, the resilience of producers and improved climatic conditions suggest a high-quality harvest (SA Wine, 2025).
South Africa Wine CEO Rico Basson added, “The industry’s adaptability and the absence of extreme weather disruptions this season have created a positive outlook. Stock levels in the industry are at equilibrium, matching the demand from global and domestic markets. If the current conditions hold, South Africa is set to deliver a harvest of both quantity and quality, reinforcing its position as a global wine leader” (SA Wine, 2025)
Quoin Rock’s first grapes received
- Harvest start date: 30 January 2025
- First cultivar harvested: Road 5A Block Chardonnay (Quoin Rock Vineyards)
- Clone: CY548, a very fruit forward clone with beautiful acidity. Typically, 2-5 days ahead of other Chardonnay clones we farm with
- Yield: 6.845 tons
- Balling at arrival: 21.7
The improved weather conditions and vineyard management strategies suggest a high-quality crop for Quoin Rock, Knorhoek, and Boskloof vineyards.
Conclusion
With stable weather conditions, improved water reserves, and extended hang time for optimal flavour development, the 2025 vintage at Quoin Rock is showing strong potential. While final yield numbers are yet to be confirmed, the ability to harvest grapes at lower phenolic ripeness and sugar levels is a positive sign for vineyard health and long-term sustainability. The extra time for phenolic development is expected to enhance complexity and balance in the final wines. As the harvest continues, Quoin Rock remains committed to producing wines that reflect the best possible expression of its terroir.