The annual 
Local Wine Expo hosted by Proudly South African is more than a celebration of local winemaking excellence.
It is a platform where heartwarming stories of enduring friendships, lifelong dreams fulfilled, African heritage celebrated and loved ones honoured are captured in every bottle and expressed through an array of distinctive varietals, from velvety, full-bodied reds to crisp and aromatic whites.
Proudly South African recently hosted the annual Local Wine Expo at the Prison Break Market in Northern Johannesburg.
The three-day event predominantly celebrates emerging South African wine producers. A total of 29 wine exhibitors, 80% of whom were women winemakers, showcased their products at the event.
The expo not only introduces wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs to exciting local brands but also creates valuable market-access opportunities for participating winemakers.
The Chief Executive Officer of Proudly South African, Eustace Mashimbye, said: "The inspiring stories behind many of the wine brands exhibiting at the Proudly South African Local Wine Expo reinforce our belief that supporting small businesses helps entrepreneurs realise their biggest dreams."
Aslina Wines is named after founder Ntsiki Biyela's grandmother, whose strength and determination inspired the brand. Biyela is recognised as South Africa's first Black female winemaker.
Nanola Wines, founded by Silindile Zuma, takes its name from the affectionate nickname her late father used for her, making every bottle a tribute to family and legacy.
Zulu Girl Wines was established by lifelong friends Pam Biyela and Sandy MaGumede, who built the brand around friendship, culture and celebration. The brand debuted at Standard Bank WineX in 2024.
Luc Mo Wines extends its storytelling beyond the bottle through wine-infused chocolates featuring Dipabi, a Basotho indigenous superfood, while highlighting themes of African heritage and African aristocracy.
Meanwhile, House of Azari was born out of Siphiwe Katjene's long-held dream of creating a dedicated Cap Classique label. That dream has already yielded success, with the brand's Brut Rosé earning a Gold medal at the 2024 Intercontinental Wine Challenge, held annually in Italy.
For Lali Seane, founder of Lali Wines in Ga-Rankuwa, the journey has been rooted in making wine more accessible, helping to demystify wine culture and democratise enjoyment of the celebrated beverage.
"The Local Wine Expo celebrates the diversity, excellence and growth of South Africa's wine industry, providing local winemakers with an important platform to showcase their talent and products while creating meaningful connections with consumers and industry buyers alike," said Mashimbye.
It also allows producers to educate visitors about their wines, fostering long-term interest, support and potential placement in retail stores, restaurants, hotels and liquor outlets.
The 2025 Local Wine Expo was hosted in partnership with the Wholesale & Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA), FoodBev Manufacturing SETA, Gauteng Liquor Board, San Quentin and the Gauteng Tourism Authority.
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