From ocean-cooled wines to rare vintages: What to discover at WineX 2026

How about tasting a wine made from an Italian grape rarely found in South Africa, discovering a winemaker with an extraordinary personal story, or sampling a red that’s been ageing for more than three decades?

These are just some of the discoveries awaiting Gauteng wine lovers when Standard Bank Private WineX returns to the Sandton Convention Centre from 28 to 30 October 2026.

With more than 700 wines and brandies from over 120 exhibitors, there’s plenty to explore. But beyond the familiar favourites, several particularly interesting bottles deserve a place on your tasting list.

A little taste of Italy

Ayama Wines, situated near Paarl, has pioneered the cultivation of Vermentino, a white grape traditionally associated with Italy’s Mediterranean coast. Its 2025 Vermentino will be available alongside something even more unusual: the 2024 Vermentino Cap Classique, made from a grape variety rarely associated with South African sparkling wine.

Wines with an ocean connection

Ever wondered what the Atlantic Ocean might contribute to a glass of wine? Fryer’s Cove produces wines from vineyards remarkably close to the West Coast shoreline. Its cellar occupies a former crayfish factory, where icy seawater is used to cool fermentation tanks. Look out for the Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023 and Fryer’s Cove Chenin Blanc 2024.

A remarkable winemaking journey

One of the most inspiring stories belongs to Berene Sauls, founder of Tesselaarsdal Wines. Beginning her career as an au pair at Hamilton Russell Vineyards, she eventually established her own wine business in 2015. Her Chardonnay 2024 and Pinot Noir 2024 offer visitors an opportunity to discover wines born from determination, mentorship and a deep connection to her Overberg roots.

A journey back to 1990

For collectors and curious enthusiasts, Warwick Wine Estate is presenting a particularly exciting selection of older vintages. Its Trilogy 1990, 2009 and 2012 offer a rare opportunity to explore how a celebrated South African red blend can evolve over decades.

Something for the adventurous palate

From Cederberg’s aromatic Bukettraube 2025 to Bellingham’s Bernard Series Motherblock Albariño 2024, WineX also offers opportunities to venture beyond the usual Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

And that’s the real attraction of WineX: discovering something unexpected, speaking to the people behind the bottles and perhaps finding a new favourite.

Standard Bank Private WineX takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre from 28–30 October, with public admission on 29 and 30 October, from 17h00 to 21h00. Tickets are available through Webtickets, with discounts for qualifying Standard Bank cardholders. Entry is for adults aged 18 and older.

Make the most of your WineX experience

With more than 700 wines and brandies to explore, a little planning can go a long way. Here are our tips for enjoying WineX like a seasoned wine enthusiast.

• Start with bubbles, finish with reds. Begin with sparkling wines, move through crisp whites and fuller-bodied whites, then explore lighter reds before tackling the bold, full-bodied varieties. This helps prevent stronger flavours from overwhelming more delicate wines.
• Save the brandy for last. If you’re sampling both wine and brandy, enjoy your wines first. Brandy’s higher alcohol content and intensity can make it harder to appreciate the subtleties of lighter wines.
• Sip, swirl and spit. With so many wines available, there’s no need to swallow every tasting sample. Professional tasters regularly use spittoons to enjoy the flavours without consuming too much alcohol.
• Water and food are your friends. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks and don’t taste on an empty stomach.
• Quality over quantity. You won’t get through 700 wines in one evening, so don’t try! Pick a few interesting producers, ask questions and savour the discoveries.

And remember: The tasting order is about appreciating flavours, not reducing alcohol’s effects. Plan a safe ride home and leave the driving to someone else.