Wine directory is a winner

HAVING digested at least some of the 15th edition of the annual SA Wine Industry Directory, I am impressed with the scope and detail of this comprehensive title, and the amount of research and co-ordination.

It involved editor Wanda Augustyn and a team of researchers, IT gurus, proof readers and graphic designers, and the result speaks for itself – this is an invaluable reference tool for anyone involved in the industry, from viticulturists to online retailers.

The contents follow a similar pattern to previous editions, opening with a history of our wine industry, statistics and laws. Educational organisations, a 2013 harvest report and a vintage guide precede details of vinous associations, forums, guilds and institutes.

Awards and competitions cover 18 pages, followed by information on wine media. Cultivars and viticultural cost analysis make essential sections for producers, while tourism groups will benefit from the chapter on wine regions, routes and trusts, with maps.

The list of producers and wineries forms the core of the book, followed by details of industry suppliers and statistics. The book is published by Wineland Publications.