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World first
Certified Heritage Vineyards Seal
As a world-first, the Certified Heritage Vineyard seal certifies the plant date of a vineyard from which a wine is made. In a time when consumers are constantly seeking more knowledge and transparency on products, this is a powerful tool to communicate with consumers.
The seal was developed by Old Vine Project Director, Eben van Wyk, and launched in 2016.
Rarity & Desirability
Quality Differentiation
Product Integrity
Exclusivity & Traceability
The Certified Heritage Vineyard seal offers something powerful: proof. Backed by a robust traceability system from SAWIS (South African Wine Industry Information and Systems), this Certified Heritage Vineyard certification ensures that its old vine credentials are undeniably authentic.
This objectivity and transparency have allowed South Africa to lead the way, becoming the first country in the world to formalise an old vineyard wine category. By setting clear standards, the Old Vine Project has created not just a premium category, but a trusted one.
Premium wine categories are often defined by scarcity, uniqueness, and emotional resonance. Old vine wines tick all these boxes. Our consumer research revealed that people buy not only because of the quality of the wines but are inspired by the stories behind them – a tale of heritage, sustainability, and authenticity. In short, it’s about transcendent value.
Younger generations, while drinking less wine overall, are increasingly willing to pay more for products that align with their values. Old vine wines embody this ethos, blending tradition with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and social impact.’
Jonathan Steyn &
Raphaela van Embden
Traceability chain
How certification works
01
Vineyard registration
The block is registered with SAWIS, South Africa's official wine industry data system, with its plant date on record.
02
Age verification
The Old Vine Project confirms the vineyard meets the 35-year minimum threshold, now the global standard set by the OIV in 2024.
03
Seal authorisation
Certified producers are authorised to carry the Certified Heritage Vineyard seal on wines made from qualifying blocks.
04
Consumer assurance
Every sealed bottle carries verifiable provenance.
