Celebrating a strong start to harvest 2025
Following the challenges of 2024, when heavy pre-harvest rainfall affected yields, Robertson Winery is approaching the 2025 harvest with renewed optimism.
Improved weather conditions throughout the growing season, combined with careful vineyard management, have set the stage for a significantly better harvest. Farmers and the winery alike are anticipating high-quality fruit and a strong season ahead.
"We're incredibly pleased with the grapes coming into the cellar after what has been a near perfect growing season. Apart from a heatwave over Christmas, the weather has been ideal for producing the healthiest grapes we'e seen in 20 years," said Rianco van Rooyen, Cellar Master at Robertson Winery.
Exceptional promise
"At this stage, we’re already seeing amazing results with the early varieties. Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc are showing incredible aromatics with a full-bodied freshness.
”Pinotage, too, is shaping up well, with deep, rich colours and fantastic aromatics," Rianco added.
"It’s still early in the harvest, but we are excited about the potential quality we see so far."
Adjustments moving into 2025
While the 2024 harvest was smaller due to a variety of factors, including a mild bout of downy mildew, the vineyard team took proactive steps to ensure the health and quality of the 2025 harvest.
There were no major changes to vineyard practices, but a more attentive approach to fungicide use was taken in the lead-up to 2025. "The growing conditions have been ideal this year, and we're seeing great results across the board," said Rianco.
Sustainability remains a top priority
Building on its commitment to water and energy conservation in 2024, Robertson Winery is taking sustainability a step further with a groundbreaking eco-friendly innovation.
The winery has developed the world’s first fully recyclable bag and tap combination. This pioneering initiative ensures that the entire bag-in-box product can be recycled, reinforcing Robertson Winery’s dedication to reducing environmental impact and supporting a circular economy.
What can consumers look forward to from the 2025 harvest?
While it's still early days, the team at Robertson Winery is already excited about the potential for special releases:
"Our Sauvignon Blanc 2025 is shaping up to be a standout. We’re also looking forward to introducing some new, exciting products from this harvest."
Looking ahead
As the 2025 harvest season unfolds, Robertson Winery remains focused on consistency, quality, and sustainability.
With the right balance of tradition and innovation, the winery is well-equipped to navigate the demands of the season.
Producers continue to invest in new plantings to ensure the continued quality of their most popular cultivars, while maintaining an agile approach to vineyard management.