South Africa makes strides in organic wine push

The country’s organic wine sector is gaining traction as Stellenbosch producer Journey’s End becomes the first South African winery to achieve B Corp certification. 

South Africa is stepping up its organic wine credentials as Journey’s End becomes the first vineyard and winery in the country to gain B Corp certification. The move marks a significant milestone in the nation’s push for higher sustainability standards and greater transparency in organic winemaking.

The Stellenbosch-based winery, which has prioritised sustainability since its foundation in 1995, joins a global network of businesses committed to the highest levels of social and environmental responsibility. The certification recognises Journey’s End’s commitment to ethical business practices, climate resilience, and biodiversity protection.

“As we celebrate the close of B Corp Month, Journey’s End proudly stands as a trailblazer, paving the way for future-focused, impact-driven winemaking,” said Stephanie von Oppell, global head of marketing at Journey’s End. “We hope to inspire others in the wider industry to join us on our mission to be a force for good while crafting exceptional, terroir-driven wines.”

Raising the bar for sustainability

The winery has implemented a host of sustainability initiatives, including full off-grid solar power, water self-sufficiency through rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling, and regenerative agriculture efforts such as planting over 10,500 native spekboom succulents to enhance carbon sequestration and soil health.

Beyond environmental efforts, the Journey’s End Foundation has provided over five million meals through local female-run soup kitchens, addressing food insecurity in nearby communities.

South Africa’s organic wine industry lags behind Europe

Despite growing global demand for organic wine, expected to triple in market value to US$30 billion by 2030, South Africa’s organic sector still trails behind major wine-producing nations. European markets dominate organic production, with France, Italy, and Spain leading the charge. A lack of reliable certification and limited organic vineyard acreage have hindered South Africa’s progress. However, Journey’s End’s B Corp status, coupled with the recent certification of other organic producers, suggests the tide is turning. Producers such as Alex Dale from Radford Dale, have been vocal about the need for true organic change in South Africa. Dale recently criticised the prevalence of greenwashing in the sector and called for stricter standards to ensure credibility. With sustainability now a key selling point for global consumers, South Africa’s wine industry is under pressure to catch up. Journey’s End’s achievement sets a benchmark, offering hope that more wineries will follow suit in the push for higher organic standards.