#Japan #Tokyo #South Africa #Wines of South Africa #WOSA Japan

Wines of South Africa: A Fresh Start for 2026

The Wines of South Africa Association (WOSA Japan) has announced an exciting rebranding initiative aimed at strengthening its unique identity in a competitive global wine market. Focusing on originality and presence, WOSA Japan will carry a new branding concept, which prominently features the King Protea, South Africa's national flower. This development reflects the essence of South African wines and introduces a new catchy slogan: 'Sunshine Inside.'

This new branding symbolizes the sunlight blessings that are intrinsic to South African wines. It pays tribute to the thoughts and spirit of the winemakers contained in each bottle, encapsulating the optimism and cultural identity of the South African people. WOSA aims to highlight not just the products but also the lifestyle and culture that shines brightly in South Africa.

Upcoming Activities for 2026

South Africa Wine Day: February 2, 2026

To kick-off the 2026 event calendar, WOSA Japan will celebrate South Africa Wine Day on February 2nd. This event will feature a brand concept announcement targeted at wine professionals and the media.

Event Details:

• - Date: February 2, 2026 (Monday)
• - Time: 14:00 - 15:00 (Doors open at 13:30)
• - Venue: South African Ambassador's Residence
• - Cost: Free (Invitation only)

Attendees can expect to taste various South African wines that embody the sunshine blessings. Media representatives and influencers interested in joining are invited to fill out the registration form available here.

Alongside this event, a South Africa Wine Special Dinner is also scheduled for the evening, open to the general public.
Dinner Information:

• - Date: February 2, 2026 (Monday)
• - Time: 18:00 — Doors open; 18:30 — Dinner starts; 20:30 — Event concludes
• - Venue: Signature - Mandarin Oriental Tokyo
• - Cost: ¥27,500 (including tax and service)
• - Highlight: A full course sit-down dinner paired with a selection of eight premium South African wines

Reserve your seat for this special dining experience here.

A Historical Note on South African Wine Day

February 2 marks a significant date in South African wine history. It was on this day in 1659 that Jan van Riebeeck, the first governor of the Cape Colony, recorded in his diary that the first wine was made from Cape grapes. This rich legacy reminds us that wine production in South Africa started much earlier than in renowned New World regions like California and Australia.

WOSA Sommelier Symposium 2026

Later in the year, WOSA will host the WOSA Sommelier Symposium 2026 in September. This prestigious event will invite top sommeliers from South Africa's key export markets to the Cape Winelands for site visits and various master classes designed to deepen their understanding of South African wines.

Such exchanges are expected to be incredibly meaningful for both the sommeliers and the wine producers of South Africa. Additionally, WOSA Japan, in collaboration with the Japan Sommelier Association's Technical Research Department, will conduct a selection process for representatives from Japan during February to April.
Only qualified sommeliers who are actively engaged in the wine industry will be considered. Further details about the selection process and entry can be found on WOSA Japan’s official website.

Discover South Africa 2026

Another significant event on the horizon is the annual tasting event Discover South Africa, which WOSA Japan's importers will showcase in October in both Tokyo and Osaka. Further information will be available on the WOSA Japan website. This year, producers from South Africa will also visit in conjunction with the 2025 Discover South Africa Tokyo event.

In closing, WOSA Japan is poised for an exciting 2026 filled with opportunities to experience the essence of South African wines. With a new branding approach and a series of events lined up, wine enthusiasts can anticipate exceptional moments celebrating the unique charm of South African wines.