Cape Winelands counts damages after wet season’s floods

In a region celebrated for its wineries and vineyards, South Africa’s Western Cape recently endured the most destructive storm in many years, causing extensive damage to the winelands. The end of September saw nearly 16 inches of rain deluge the area in less than 48 hours, leading to heavy consequences, including flooded rivers, washed-out roads, and destroyed bridges.

One month after the deluge, wineries and vineyards continue to assess the damage, with concerns mounting about the impact on the upcoming vintage. The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, one of the hardest-hit areas, witnessed the partial collapse of the valley’s main road, with an estimated $4.2 million required for repairs. The road’s closure has led to diversions through local farms and dirt tracks.

Anthony Hamilton Russell of Hamilton Russell Vineyards described the storm as “Unbelievable and totally unexpected,” with strong winds uprooting century-old trees and causing significant destruction to the winery’s infrastructure. The storm’s aftermath also led to the loss of a 12,000-year-old peat wetland.

The Palmiet River in Elgin surged by nearly 20 feet, causing nine dams to burst their banks, adding to the region’s already saturated soil from a long, wet winter. Gottfried Mocke of Boekenhoutskloof in Franschhoek highlighted the challenges posed by the region’s saturated soil, resulting in the toppling of numerous trees.

One winery, Springfield Estate in Robertson, witnessed 120 acres of vineyards submerged when the Breede River reached unprecedented levels. Access to vineyards has become a significant challenge due to damaged roads. Many farmers are also concerned about the potential spread of downy mildew, given the wet conditions and the threat it poses to their yields.

The Western Cape government estimates agricultural land damage at approximately $75 million. However, the wine industry’s primary concern is the potential impact on tourism. Visits to the Cape had exceeded pre-Covid levels for the first time in July, but the aftermath of the storm may disrupt businesses’ plans to capitalize on this vital source of income. Despite these challenges, South African winemakers are known for their resilience and determination to overcome adversity.

As Bevan Newton Johnson from Newton Johnson Vineyards aptly put it, “This is agriculture, and we’re used to having curveballs thrown at us. People will still find a way to get through.”

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