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From wine tastings and winemaker conversations to vineyard walks, literary discussions and a long-table feast, Woordfees 2026 offers an engaging opportunity to experience the people, stories and places behind Stellenbosch wine from 3 to 11 October.

Stellenbosch lies at the heart of South Africa’s wine industry, with its Wine Routes celebrating their 55th anniversary this year. The region is also home to some of the country’s most awarded wine farms, making it a natural setting for a festival that brings together wine, art, literature, food and storytelling.

A substantial part of this year’s Woordfees programme shines a light on the people and stories behind South African wine, while giving visitors the opportunity to venture beyond the festival venues and explore the vineyards, valleys and historic communities surrounding Stellenbosch.

Wine, winemakers and Sauvignon Blanc

Among the programme highlights is a panel discussion exploring Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa’s biggest-selling wine variety, with Stellenbosch wines and winemakers taking centre stage. The programme also includes a selection of relaxed “wine school” sessions covering different varieties and styles, as well as wine walks.

Among the personalities hosting or participating in these experiences are RSG radio presenter Martelize Brink, writer and photographer Toast Coetzer, and chef Mynhardt Joubert.

On 8 October at 18:00, award-winning Stellenbosch winemakers will join a book discussion and wine tasting exploring the stories behind The Story of South African Sauvignon Blanc. The conversation will range from fresh coastal styles to complex wines with exceptional ageing potential, examining how the cultivar expresses place, style and the winemaker’s individual approach.

The discussion is anchored by the coffee-table book The Story of South African Sauvignon Blanc, which brings together 100 stories and features a unique Sauvignon Blanc aroma wheel. Tickets include the book and wine tasting.

Discover the Dwarsrivier Valley

For walkers and photographers, the Dwarsrivier Valley provides another perspective on the region through stories, photography and landscape.

The experience on 10 October begins at Le Pommier Wine Estate, followed by transport to the Dwarsrivier Information Centre for a guided walk through Pniel, Johannesdal and Kylemore. The route returns to Le Pommier for a light lunch, with refreshments included along the way. The walk starts at 10:00.

More adventurous hikers can set out at 06:00 for a mountain experience led by guides Sophia van Taak and Austin Lawrence. The circular route runs from Le Pommier through the mountains towards Silvermine and back, combining scenic views and storytelling with fresh mountain air. A light breakfast awaits hikers on their return, with refreshments provided along the route.

Listen, taste and celebrate

Woordfees audiences can also experience a live broadcast when RSG’s popular wine programme, Bekbasaar: Die reine wynheid, comes to the Boland on 4 October at 10:00.

Hosted by Martelize Brink, the programme offers an intimate look at the diverse world of South African wine. More than a conversation about wine, it explores the country’s wine heritage, from its beginnings in 1659 to the innovators shaping the industry today.

Another annual highlight is the Woordfees Long Table, which returns on 2 October at 18:30. Set beneath the oaks among the historic buildings of Ryneveld Street, the evening combines food, wine and music in a festive setting.

Chef Mynhardt Joubert has created a menu inspired by the celebratory theme, with a complimentary glass of wine served on arrival.

Wine School returns

Also returning by popular demand is the Woordfees Wine School, offering an informal and sociable introduction to wine without the usual formality or snobbery.

The programme covers everything from grape varieties and wine styles to cellar secrets, with engaging conversations, unexpected stories and plenty of opportunities to taste along the way.

Three sessions are presented by winemakers and wine personalities together with broadcaster Martelize Brink:

• Bubbly 101 — 5 October at 18:00
• Cabernet Sauvignon 101 — 6 October at 18:00
• White Wine 101 — 7 October at 18:00

With its combination of wine, food, literature, art, music and the Stellenbosch landscape, Woordfees 2026 offers visitors an opportunity to experience the region beyond the tasting room — through the stories, people and places that have shaped its wine culture.

For programme details, costs and booking information, visit www.woordfees.co.za.