The South African Wine industry is older than 350 years and although there is all sorts of wine competitions out there today, celebrating and evaluating the contents of every bottle, nobody until now, thought to recognise the unsung heroes that toil behind the scenes of even the greatest Estates. The amount of people and effort behind bringing any product to the shelf is mind-blowing and it is fitting that the time has come to recognise the most influential players in each respective field, responsible for the marketing, delivering, making and selling of South African Wine, both locally and abroad.
The inaugural Financial Mail Wine Business Awards was conceptualized specifically to honour and identify those players most responsible in further developing the ever-growing South African Wine Industry. At the awards function hosted at the Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg on the 26th of June, The Vineyard Connection, based on the beautiful Delvera Farm near Stellenbosch, was announced as the Best Wine Logistics company in the country. A Judging Panel, chaired by legendary winemaker Norma Ratcliffe, consisting of industry leaders in retail, marketing and advertising, brand building, packaging and design as well as logistics and distribution were entrusted to recognize exemplary business acumen and success. Their main aim was to identify who is excelling within the wine industry through best practice, innovation and leadership and after all the entries were received, The Vineyard Connection, showed the leadership required for undisputed service excellence while being reliable, flexible and competitive.
According to Lara Philp, co-owner of The Vineyard Connection, it has always been their mission to be seen as the niche market leader in the air and roadfreight of South African Wine, whether it be for local deliveries or for specialist consignments destined for overseas markets. Asked what it meant to be recognised as the business leader in the respective field of wine logistics, she enthusiastically responded, “We have been really privileged to be part of the wine industry for over a decade and it is truly satisfying to be rewarded and acknowledged in such a manner!â€
From humble beginnings in Woodstock, to their current boutique wine shop and warehouse on Delvera Farm, they continually strive to make sure that the delivery process from point of sale to final signage is as smooth as possible. Apart from making sure wine is delivered safely and on time, it is their commitment to service excellence which was recognized by the leaders of the industry on last Thursday evening. “I think the Financial Mail Wine Business Awards is a great initiative and a marvelous way for the wine industry to gain some exposure. It is one of the most important industries in our country and it is fitting that all the parties involved in the supply chain are recognized. The Financial Mail Wine Business Awards is perfect in fulfilling the role of adjudicator of all things great in this extremely exciting industry.†commented Ms. Philp.
Along with being the preferred logistical provider for more than 300 Cape Wine Estates, The Vineyard Connection is also the logistical partner for The Cape Winemakers Guild, the Vinoteque at The Bergkelder and for the hugely successful Stellenbosch Wine Festival. It’s boutique wine shop in the middle of the Stellenbosch Winelands also boasts one of the best selections of top-end South African wine under one roof and is also the setting for various Wines of South Africa (WOSA) and John Platter tastings. It’s dedicated and educated wine buying team have hosted many top internationally renowned guests and now, together with being the number one wine logistics company in the country, are one of the most influential players in the ever-growing, important and exciting wine industry.
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