Cape Town — SA's R4bn wine export industry is working feverishly to counter claims that certain winemakers are illegally adding flavourants to their wines, particularly Sauvignon Blancs.

The allegation in Business Day last week by leading wine expert Michael Fridjhon was followed up by media in UK and Australia.

Wines of SA, the export marketing arm of the local wine industry, has received a large number of inquiries on the issue.

SA's exports of bottled and bulk natural wine, which surged to 216-million litres last year from 176-million in 2001, are already under pressure as a result of the strong rand, and the industry fears that further damage may be caused by the allegations.

The South African Wine & Spirit Board and the South African Wine & Brandy Company (SAWB), which represents producers, cellars, labour and trade, have both issued statements denouncing the practice and vowing to bring perpetrators to book.

Jakob Deist, chairman of the board's management committee, said it viewed the allegations very seriously. Those found to be involved would be prevented from having their wines certified. Offenders could also be criminally prosecuted.

SAWB CEO Johan van Rooyen said the body would assist the board in identifying wrongdoers.