RMB WineX turns a proud 20 this year, taking the annual top spot in wine diaries from Wednesday 30 October to Friday 1 November.
Held at the Sandton Convention Centre since its inception in 2000, Jozi’s most ‘talkable’ wine festival will again bring the best of the Cape – and some gems from the international wine scene – to the palates of SA’s largest and most avid wine-loving audience.
The exhibitor line-up will include at least 30 wineries from the inaugural show plus a large contingent of next-generation winemakers showcasing their wares to the vibrant Gauteng market.
Says Michael Fridjhon, RMB WineX show director: “It’s been an extraordinary two decades, with the current wine industry almost unrecognisably different from the one which filled the Sandton Convention Centre – shortly after it opened its doors for the first time – in October 2000. In that long-forgotten era there were half the number of wineries we have today, but more than a thousand more grape growers. Our vineyard area was 10 percent bigger, but paradoxically total production was 30 percent less. Wine exports were a fraction of what they are today, and buyers wanted the comfort of long-established brand names, rather than the adventurous offerings of newcomers, craft producers and artisan winemakers.”
One of the main attractions is The RMB Private Bank Tasting Lounge where winemakers present half-hour small group tastings covering a range of fascinating topics – Be sure to reserve your attendance immediately on arrival at the show because seats are limited.
French cheese, Morgenster olives, foie gras, West Coast oysters, sushi from the Sushi Bus, Norwegian smoked Salmon, chocolates and nougat will be the order of the day along with the tapas and deli dishes sold at the Mastrantonio Café.
The Shop@Show facility, administered by Norman Goodfellows, offers the convenience of a one-stop wine buying service for home delivery in time for the festive season.
