Flood Disaster in South Africa: Van Loveren's Struggle to Support the Robertson Wine Region

The severe floods at the Breede River are hitting the heart of South Africa's wine region.

The Robertson wine region in South Africa is currently facing one of the most severe natural disasters in recent years. Following extreme rainfall, the Breede River transformed into a destructive flood wave, severely damaging numerous wineries along the riverbank.

One of the most affected is the historic family estate Van Loveren — one of the most recognized and important wineries in South Africa.

This news has deeply affected us, as behind the wines lie real people, friendships, and legacies that we have been supporting for many years.

Our connection with Van Loveren spans over 20 years, evolving into more than just a business relationship but a true friendship with parts of the Retief family who still run the estate today.

Van Loveren is among the most esteemed family-owned wineries in South Africa and is internationally renowned for its hospitality, consistent high quality, and authentic wines from Robertson.

This is why the imagery from South Africa has moved us:

• flooded cellars
• damaged infrastructure
• yards filled with meters of water
• damaged vineyards
• employees' homes submerged
• millions of damaged wine bottles

The damage along the Breede River is immense.

In spite of this dramatic situation, what impresses us most is the incredible resilience of the people at the Cape.

Just days after the flood, hundreds of helpers were on duty. Employees, families, friends, and neighbors worked together to clear away the mud, salvage the buildings, and restore the infrastructure.

A message from Bussell Retief of Van Loveren particularly touched us:

“Thomas, give us 10 days and it will look very different here. We will survive this.”

This mindset perhaps best encapsulates South Africa: optimism, unity, and a willingness to rise again after serious setbacks.

Not only Van Loveren has been affected; several other renowned wineries in the Robertson region, including Springfield Estate and many smaller family businesses along the Breede River, have also suffered greatly.

The floods illustrate once more how interconnected winemaking and nature are. Even large and successful operations are vulnerable to extreme weather events.

But this also highlights the tremendous strength of the South African wine community.

Perhaps the timing has given one of the most recognized wine names from the Van Loveren family a new significance: Survivor.

For that’s what the people there are right now: Survivors. Not because they are without losses, but because they continue to persevere.

While we cannot undo the damage, we can continue to support the people at the Cape — by drinking, recommending, and intentionally purchasing their wines.

For behind every bottle of South African wine are families, employees, and stories filled with passion, commitment, and hard work. Now may be the right moment to give back to these people.

And we are convinced: if anyone can rise again after such a catastrophe, it will be the winemakers of South Africa.

South Africa remains one of the most exciting wine countries in the world. Those who have experienced the hospitality, warmth, and passion of South African wineries quickly understand why this region captivates wine lovers. A visit to Van Loveren in Robertson exemplifies this: warmth, humanity, and a profound love for wine. And perhaps drinking a glass of South African wine after hearing this story tastes even more special.