With around 600 wineries affected by lockdown, the iconic Cape winelands that earn R49 billion for the country annually are bleeding revenue, jobs and prospects. COVID-19 lockdown regulations saw alcohol sales and exports shut down.

It came after the harvest was in – it had been a good year with increased volumes and quality. This was supposed to be the time to recover heavy capital investments early in the season and reverse the difficult years of drought.

Carte Blanche examines what it will take to recover hope in the industry.