The Western Cape government has launched an investigation following a scathing documentary by a Danish filmmaker alleging slavery-like labour practises on Robertson wine farms.

The film, “Bitter Grapes - Slavery in the Vineyards” by Tom Heinemann, was aired in Denmark and Sweden this week and reportedly resulted in Danish supermarkets  removing South African wines  from their shelves. The film alleges labour law violations, including workers receiving R105 for a 12-hour shift, exposure to toxic pesticides, poor living conditions, 80% wage deductions and an unofficial “dop” system.

The issue made headlines as the SA wine tourism industry launched its first Wine Tourism marketing strategy to promote a strong SA wine tourism brand domestically and abroad. 

In reaction, Western Cape MEC of Economic Opportunities, Alan Winde, said:

“I view these allegations in a very serious light. I have directed my department to investigate the matter further and submit an interim report to my office within the next two weeks. The Western Cape Government stands firmly behind the rule of law in all cases.”  He said the Western Cape government established a dedicated support unit, “which immediately investigates any employee-employer grievances brought to its attention.”

Wine of SA (WOSA) and industry organization VinPro recognised the urgency of social upliftment, but said change took time and investment. “There are numerous programmes of social upliftment, housing, land reform, education, skills and medical care for farm workers and their families. There are regular audits across the board that support and encourage positive change.  However these changes simply cannot happen overnight,” WOSA said.