Cape Winemakers Guild Auction sales rise 5.9% as volume grows

The 42nd Cape Winemakers Guild Auction generated R18.22 million in sales on 2 and 3 October, a 5.9% increase on 2025. It sold 2,220 cases, compared with 1,912 last year, while the average price per bottle declined from R1,501 to R1,368.

Strauss & Co hosted the hybrid auction, which drew 263 registered bidders from 16 countries. Of the 58 wines offered, 34 were reds, 22 whites and two Cap Classiques. For the first time in the Guild’s 42-year history, whites and Cap Classique achieved a higher average price than reds: R1,416 per bottle against R1,340, excluding VAT. Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay made up 65% of the white wines offered.

South African bidders accounted for 78% of sales, with buyers from 10 other countries making up the balance. UK bidders represented 7% of the total. Trade accounted for just under 30% of bidders but 44% of the value purchased.

Separately, the Guild’s Protégé Auction raised R655,900 from donated wines and wine-related experiences to support placements and training for emerging South African winemakers.