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Deep Dive: Bitter Grapes (2025)

Film Lens

Bitter Grapes
The film examines the difficult conditions faced by farm workers in South Africa's wine industry. It shows the struggles of over a million farm workers who have been evicted from their homes on farms since 1994. The documentary portrays the harsh realities of labor rights violations, including the denial of basic rights such as joining a union and receiving a living wage. The narrative is framed against the backdrop of increasing demand for South African wine in Scandinavian countries, raising questions about the ethical implications of consumer choices. Through interviews and on-the-ground investigations, the film reveals the stark contrast between the thriving wine industry and the plight of the workers who produce it. The documentary captures the moment when workers at the Robertson Winery went on strike in 2016, demanding a doubling of their salaries, which were as low as €268 a month. The film calls for consumers to make ethical choices regarding the wine they purchase, emphasizing the need for fair treatment and dignity for farm workers.

Why Watch

  • Find out how wine production impacts farm workers' lives.
  • See the strike for better wages at Robertson Winery.
  • Meet farm workers facing harsh labor conditions.

Did You Know

Since 1994, more than a million farm workers have been evicted from South African farms.
The import of South African wine has increased by 78% in Denmark since 2006.
Farm workers at the Robertson Winery went on strike in 2016 demanding a salary increase to €536 a month.

Perfect For

Wine enthusiastsLabor rights advocatesEthical consumers