Call to enter the Du Toitskloof SA Wine Writer Competition

According to Marius Louw, CEO of Du Toitskloof Wines, this year's theme asks participants to look into the crystal ball and predict what the South African wine industry will look like 20 years from now.

"One of the features of today's wine industry, which has been written on extensively by local and international commentators, is the vast changes that have taken place in the industry over the past two decades," said Louw. "With this in mind, for this year's wine writing competition we would like to see entrants predicting what they deem to be an industry scenario for 2035.

"Change has characterised the industry over the past 20 years. Exports have increased. The number of wineries and brands has grown beyond belief. Certain grape varieties and wine styles have fallen out of fashion, replaced by the new. Bulk wine has become a major force. Overall, exciting times.

Sketch a scenario

"Now, what lies ahead for the next two decades? This is what the Du Toitskloof Wine Writer of the Year Competition, in association with Standard Bank, would like to hear your views on. In an article of between 1500 and 2000 words, sketch a scenario for SA Wine Industry 2035. There are no restrictions as to the features you wish to discuss - it could be the proliferation of one grape variety or wine style, or your piece could include various aspects as diverse as local consumption, untapped export markets and new wine styles.

"Or, what about the government's pending legislation restricting liquor consumption as well as the challenges surrounding land reform? This is a chance to let your imagination run free, using your experience of the changes the industry has undergone since 1995."

Besides the winner receiving a cheque for R30,000, the best pieces will be published in various local publications.

This year's judges are Gabriël Botma, from the University of Stellenbosch's Department of Journalism, Ian Glenn, former head of UCT's Media Studies Department, Ingrid Jones, experienced journalist and currently editor of Mango Juice magazine and Joan Hambidge, well-known poet, novelist and literary critic, who teaches creative writing at UCT.

Further details can be found at www.dutoitskloof.co.za under the heading Wine Writers Competition.