After 333 years, you’d think we’d have seen it all – but each season still finds a way to surprise us. Looking back on a year shaped by milestones, steady hands and a few well-timed ideas, we’re reminded of what happens when you grow good in every way. These are highlights we’re taking with us into 2026.
January: Harvest beginnings and a familiar face, refreshed
The year began where it always does: in the vineyards. As harvest rolled in, we introduced a thoughtful redesign for Creative Block, our most awarded range of blends crafted for both collectors and curious drinkers – same craft, sharper suit.
February: Making history
The second month of the year kicked off with a career-defining moment for Cellar Master Johan Jordaan, when he was named Master Winemaker for the Chenin Blanc category – placing our wines firmly on the world stage.
We also revealed a refreshed look for 21 Gables, honouring over three centuries of winemaking on our farm. Some stories deserve a new jacket.
March: A new chapter for our hotel
After a year of restoration, our hotel reopened its doors, completely reimagined with 80 elegant rooms, Cape herbal spa treatments and farm-to-table dining. We also introduced a new logo, reflecting years of evolution taking visible form.
April: Light after dark
Spier Light Art returned for its seventh year, transforming the farm with interactive installations under the stars and inviting visitors of all ages to experience art, innovation and imagination in a new light.
May: Recognition for doing things the right way
Exciting news arrived from Asia: we were honoured in the Ethical category and received a commendation for Sustainability at the inaugural The Drinks Business Asia Green Awards; recognition rooted in years of steady, considered work.
June: Everyday excellence, elevated
Our much-loved Signature Collection received a fresh new look. Approachable wines, dressed with the care they deserve.
August: Villas for slow stays
Two new exclusive villas joined our hospitality offering – a perfect balance of privacy and the comfort of being looked after.
September: Winning wines, art and a weekend of music
We welcomed buyers, media and partners during CapeWine, sharing our stories and pouring our wines for those who bring them to the world.
Our refreshed trio of canned wines also made their debut, now featuring striking artwork from celebrated South African artists in the Spier Arts Trust. Great wine, supporting great art.
We raised another glass to Johan and the team when 21 Gables Chenin Blanc 2023 earned top honours at the Global Chenin Masters.
Later in the month, Routes of Sound returned for its second year – a weekend of live performances scattered across the farm, celebrating South African music and storytelling through rhythm, voice and place.
October: International honours and a focus on culture
Condé Nast Traveler US named us the #4 Best Hotel in South Africa, while Condé Nast Traveller UK placed us at #12 in East & Southern Africa in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.
As Platinum Sponsors of Woordfees’ 25th anniversary, we embraced the theme of “Share” through intimate dinners, thought-provoking panels, sensory adventures and theatrical evenings. Culture and wine, together as they should be.
Die Burger readers also gave us three affirming nods: Best South African Wine Farm Experience, Best South African Winery Restaurant and Best South African Child-Friendly Winery.
November: Platter’s pride and the stars aligned
The Platter’s South African Wine Guide 2026 results landed with two 5-Star ratings for 21 Gables Sauvignon Blanc 2024 and Frans K. Smit Red 2019, along with ten 4.5-Star wines across the range.
The Frans K. Smit Red has earned its fifth 5-Star rating, six years after harvest. It’s a reminder of the many hands, seasons and decisions that shape a wine long before it’s judged.
December: Thirty years and a season to celebrate
This month marks 30 years of service by managing director Frans Smit, whose steady leadership has shaped Spier for over three decades. Joining us fresh from Elsenburg Agricultural College in 1995, Frans has been a key force in transforming Spier into one of South Africa’s leading and most acclaimed wineries.
We closed the year and opened the festive season with "A Summer Dream", our annual open-air celebration of live music, theatre and long summer evenings – bringing families and friends together to make lasting memories on the farm.
To everyone who tasted, visited, stayed, worked alongside us or helped carry our story forward – thank you. Here’s to the people, the soil and the seasons that continue to shape us.