A Message of Thanks to Rietvallei Estate Supporters

There is no doubt that the last two years have been exceptionally challenging, for Rietvallei Estate and many other wine estates across South Africa. The impact of COVID and its resultant lockdown and restrictions have been devastating. Although lockdown restrictions have eased, the effects on the wine industry will continue to be felt. 

With this in mind, we would like to thank our supporters for standing by us during one of the most difficult times in our history. At Rietvallei Estate, our focus is not only on producing the highest quality wines. It is also about fostering relationships with our customers. As a family-owned estate with a long history dating back generations, we are, and always will be, about people. 

We know that times have been tough for our customers as well as the wine industry and the broader South African economy. Many have faced job losses, business closure, financial strain, major stress, health concerns, and numerous other challenges. 

Thanking Our Loyal Rietvallei Estate Supporters

At the end of March 2020, in the early stages of COVID, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a National State of Disaster. This would include a stringent lockdown policy that included unprecedented measures such as the ban of alcohol sales. 

Aside from sales, exports were also banned during the first five weeks of lockdown. Although exports were permitted by May, the limited operations of Cape Town’s ports resulted in major shipping delays. 

In June, local alcohol sales resumed, with restrictions on trading hours and days. On-site consumption at restaurants was not permitted, with home consumption allowed. The following month, in July 2020, alcohol sale bans were once again put into place due to increased COVID hospitalisations. 

In August of 2020, restrictions were lifted, with trading hours and on-site consumption limited. Over the course of 2021, we have seen similar changes occur. Slowly, as lockdown levels have decreased, alcohol sales have finally gained stability. 

While the lifting of stringent bans has certainly been a major relief, many smaller wineries have not survived the impact of COVID. The wine industry in South Africa, and in particular areas such as the Cape, which rely heavily on tourism as well as wine sales, will take a long time to fully recover. 

Online sales have played a big role in addressing some of this impact, opening up new ways for wine enthusiasts to find their favourite wines online. Wine farms across major regions along the Cape Wine Route have come together to unite against restrictions. 

And, of course, wine consumers themselves have played a vital role in keeping the struggling industry afloat. Social media campaigns, consumer petitions, international customers, and those who have begun to head out to visit the Winelands as lockdown eases have all made a difference. 

We don’t know what 2022 will bring. Hopefully, we will see a continued lowering of restrictions. What we do know, however, is that we could not have survived these times without you – our loyal supporters. 

To every customer who has purchased Rietvallei Estate wines – online or in our cellar. To every customer who has visited our estate. To every customer who has continued to support us, throughout these times, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. 

From our family to yours, Rietvallei Estate wishes you a blessed festive season.