South Africa Wine is excited to announce the “Happy Birthday SA Wine 2026” campaign, a celebration of South African wine throughout January and February. This campaign invites wine lovers, producers, retailers, and industry stakeholders worldwide to celebrate South Africa’s rich winemaking heritage.
South Africa is unique among wine-producing countries in that it knows the exact date of the inception of its wine industry: February 2, 1659. “Our vision is to create an annual celebration that honours this heritage and promotes the spirit of South African wine,” says Rico Basson, CEO of South Africa Wine. “We want to raise awareness locally and globally about the contributions of South African wine to the world and to encourage a sense of pride and connection within the industry and among consumers.”
The campaign encourages the wine community to utilise the “Happy Birthday SA Wine” assets in their marketing efforts. These assets include social media graphics, banners, logos, supporter badges, email signature and more, designed to highlight the celebration’s spirit and drive engagement.
“We call upon the entire wine industry, tourism sector, local and international partners, and wine enthusiasts to join us in this celebration. Capture and share your celebration with us, whether it's on video or social media. Showcase your cellar’s spirit, whether it’s through a toast with your signature vintage, a vineyard celebration, or a special event at your winery. We want to see the essence of your celebration, whether it’s at the winery, in the vineyard, or in another inspiring location. Let’s raise a glass of South African wine to our industry’s past, present, and future and celebrate this milestone loudly and proudly.”
Join us in celebrating South African wine by downloading the free campaign assets HERE. Share the message, use the assets, and make this a birthday to remember.
#SAWineSince1659 #HappyBirthdaySAWine