By Gugulethu Tshabalala
When conversations turn to South African wine, the Cape Winelands usually steal the spotlight. Yet hundreds of kilometres away from Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, Gauteng has quietly built a thriving wine festival scene of its own.
From sophisticated tastings in Sandton and cultural celebrations in Soweto to gourmet food-and-wine experiences in Pretoria, Gauteng's annual wine calendar offers plenty of opportunities to discover award-winning wines without leaving the province.
With winter settling in and the second half of the year packed with events, now is the perfect time to start planning your next wine-inspired outing.
Rooi Fijnwyn Food & Wine Market
27–28 June | Pretoria
Winter and red wine are a natural pairing, which is exactly what makes the Rooi Fijnwyn Food & Wine Market such a popular annual event.
Hosted in Pretoria, the festival brings together wine estates, artisan food producers and live entertainment in a relaxed atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger a little longer over every glass. Expect bold reds, gourmet food pairings and plenty of opportunities to discover new favourites.
For those looking for a cosy winter outing with friends or family, this is one of Gauteng's most appealing seasonal wine events.
Expected ticket price: From approximately R180 to R350 per person, depending on the package selected.
Gauteng Prawn & Wine Festival
2 August | Kievits Kroon, Pretoria
Wine lovers and food enthusiasts can look forward to one of the province's most indulgent experiences when the Gauteng Prawn & Wine Festival returns to Kievits Kroon.
Set against the backdrop of the award-winning country estate, the event combines premium wine tastings with an all-you-can-eat prawn feast, creating a memorable day out that blends luxury, flavour and relaxation.
With ticket prices starting from around R880 per adult, this festival is perfect for those wanting to turn a wine tasting into a complete culinary experience.
Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival Johannesburg
August | Wanderers Club, Illovo
Few wine events in Gauteng enjoy the reputation of the Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival.
Each year, dozens of leading wine estates gather in Johannesburg to showcase their latest vintages alongside gourmet food stalls, live entertainment and specialist tasting experiences. Whether you're exploring wine for the first time or expanding an already impressive collection, the festival offers something for every palate.
It remains one of the largest and most anticipated wine events on the Gauteng calendar and a must-visit for anyone passionate about South African wine.
Ticket price: Approximately R350 per person, including a tasting glass and tasting vouchers.
Soweto Wine Festival
September | Soweto Theatre
The Soweto Wine Festival continues to prove that wine culture belongs to everyone.
As one of South Africa's most distinctive wine events, it brings together leading producers from across the country in a vibrant and welcoming setting. Visitors have the opportunity to sample a wide range of wines while enjoying the unique energy, hospitality and cultural richness that Soweto is known for.
The festival has become a highlight on Gauteng's social calendar and offers an experience that feels distinctly South African.
Expected ticket price: Approximately R250 to R450 per person, depending on the tasting package.
Standard Bank WineX
October | Sandton Convention Centre
For serious wine enthusiasts, WineX needs little introduction.
Often regarded as one of South Africa's premier wine showcases, the event features hundreds of wines from some of the country's most respected producers. It is an opportunity not only to taste exceptional wines but also to engage directly with winemakers, learn about new vintages and discover emerging labels.
If your idea of a perfect evening involves comparing Cabernet Sauvignons, xploring boutique wineries and expanding your wine knowledge, WineX deserves a place in your diary.
Expected ticket price: Approximately R300 to R450 per person, including a tasting glass and unlimited tastings.
Champagne Festival Johannesburg
November | Inanda Club, Sandton
For those who prefer bubbles, November brings one of Johannesburg's most elegant lifestyle events.
The Champagne Festival combines premium Champagne and Cap Classique tastings with gourmet food, fashion and a sophisticated social atmosphere. Hosted at the prestigious Inanda Club, the event attracts wine lovers looking to celebrate the arrival of summer in style.
Think sparkling glasses, stylish outfits and an afternoon dedicated to life's finer pleasures.
Expected ticket price: Approximately R450 to R900 per person, depending on the experience selected.
Festive Season Wine Markets
November to December | Various Gauteng Venues
As the year draws to a close, wine-themed markets begin appearing across Johannesburg and Pretoria.
These festive events provide an opportunity to stock up on wines for holiday celebrations, discover boutique producers and enjoy relaxed summer afternoons with friends and family. Many also feature local food producers, artisan goods and live entertainment, making them ideal festive season outings.
Expected entry fee: Generally R100 to R250 per person, with tasting packages available at an additional cost.
The province's festivals bring together world-class producers, exceptional food, entertainment and unique destinations, creating experiences that go far beyond the tasting glass. Whether you're planning a romantic outing, a weekend escape or a day out with friends, there's a wine festival waiting to be xplored.
So raise a glass, mark your calendar and discover why Gauteng's wine scene is worth travelling for.After all, some of South Africa's best wine experiences are much closer than you think.
XploreZA Note: Ticket prices are based on the most recent available event information and previous editions. Readers are encouraged to confirm pricing directly with organisers before booking.
