A Taste of the Cape: South African Grapes Arrive in the Philippines

Fresh from the sun-drenched vineyards of South Africa, a new variety of top-tier grapes has officially arrived in the Philippines. The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) is proud to bring these crisp, naturally cultivated treats to local shoppers looking for the best in global produce.

By expanding its Asian footprint, the South African table grape industry hits a major milestone with its Philippine debut. This move strengthens trade ties while giving Filipino families a taste of the bold flavors, vibrant colors, and premium quality that define South Africa’s world-renowned vineyards.

“We’re thrilled to introduce South African grapes to the Philippines,” said Her Excellency Bartinah Ntombizodwa Radebe-Netshitenzhe, Ambassador of South Africa to the Philippines. “Our growers take pride in cultivating grapes with time, expertise, and deep respect for nature. We’re excited for Filipino consumers to enjoy the freshness and excellence that South Africa is known for.”

South Africa’s unique climate — with warm days, cool nights, and fertile valleys — creates ideal conditions for producing grapes with extraordinary sweetness, crunch, and natural juiciness. The country has been supplying table grapes to world markets for over 130 years.

Grapes are a familiar favorite in Filipino households — enjoyed as snacks, shared during gatherings, and added to everyday dishes. South African grapes bring a new level of quality and freshness to these moments, offering a fruit that fits seamlessly into any lifestyle.

Naturally sweet, hydrating, and rich in polyphenols, grapes support heart health, immunity, healthy aging, and overall wellness, making them a smart choice for active lifestyles, balanced diets, and everyday snacking. With less than 100 calories per cup, no fat or cholesterol, and low sodium, grapes are easy to enjoy on the go, pair well with both sweet and savory dishes, and support balanced eating habits without compromising on flavor.

“Grapes are one of the most well-loved, wholesome choices in the market,” said Mecia Petersen, CEO of the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI). “More options for local consumers and retailers mean more ways to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, and South African grapes are definitely one of them.”

Had a blast at the ribbon-cutting in Mandaluyong with the SATI team! ✂️🎀 

We even got to watch @theogchocolateman - Chef Cris Valdez turn these into something special, and taste it too. He  is the Founder & Head Chocolatier - CMV Txokolat, special

Poached Grape dessert by Chef Cris Valdes

Chef Chris Valdes prepared two signature dishes, starting with a stunning Poached Grape dessert. He featured wine-poached Autumn Crisp grapes over vanilla ice cream, elevated with olive oil and smoked sea salt for the perfect sweet-and-savory balance.

Grape Bruschetta on Shrimp Cracker by Chef Cris Valdes

His second creation was the Grape Bruschetta on Shrimp Crackers. This unique appetizer features fire-roasted crimson grapes and cherry tomatoes, tossed with dill, roasted cashews, and a honey-balsamic dressing, all served on a crisp shrimp cracker.

I loved celebrating the arrival of South African Grapes in the PH! 🍇🇿🇦 These premium grapes are incredibly crisp and sweet—a must-have on my weekly grocery list. 🛒✨

Following the official launch in The Marketplace in Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City, you can now find the South African Grapes, truly certified gems, at The Marketplace and leading supermarkets across Metro Manila. It's perfect for healthy snacking on the go! 🍇💚

You may follow South African Grapes Philippines' socials- Facebook: @SouthAfricanGrapesPHL, Instagram: @sagrapesphl, TikTok: @sagrapesph

About the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) SATI is the unified South African Table Grape Industry Association. All table grape producers are required to register with SATI, which is mandated by law as the industry’s official levy administrator. The levy funds and facilitates market access and development, research and technology, information provision, transformation, and training. SATI is dedicated to operating a partnership that strives to maintain South Africa’s position as the preferred country of origin for supplying table grapes to markets around the world.