Wingerd stompies are a South African favourite when it comes to choosing braai wood as well as fuel for indoor fireplace. The country’s wine production ranks 8th in the world for overall volume production and is thus abundant in vineyards and vinewood.
Where wingerd stompies come from
The Western Cape has hundreds of wine farms, and every winter they prune their vines. The old stumps and thick canes that come out are what you get in a bag of wingerd stompies.
Vineyard pruning
Each year, winegrowers need to perform dormant pruning to prepare their vineyards for the following season of grapes. Vines are runner plants that need to be managed consistently to optimise the use of trellis systems. These are designed to expose the vines to healthy levels of sunlight and air. After the final leaves on the vines fall and before the bud breaks, it is crucial to cut away any old shoots and branches which may alter the vine shape. Pruning is also used to increase bud fertility and maximise the size of the next crop. This is because the balance between roots and shoots is maintained and the grapes are spaced out sufficiently to create room for growth.
Why wingerd stompies are a win-win
After pruning, winegrowers are left with heaps of dead branches and old shoots, which clutter their farms. Traditionally, these would be burned onsite as a quick and relatively inexpensive solution, however, South Africans have spotted the potential in ‘wingerd stompies’. While wine farms have little use for the heat and energy produced from burning vinewood, the stompies are perfect for a relaxing braai and make ideal fireplace fuel for indoor heating too.
Benefits of using wingerd stompies
For braaing
Wingerd stompies dry out well after pruning. When burned, they give a lively flame and quick, hot coals, ideal for a fast braai; for a longer cook, add them to kameeldoring coals. Cooking over wingerd coals infuses the food with a tasty, rich, fruity flavour. Wingerd stompies add a special touch to fish in particular. Because it comes from vine prunings, it is good value for the braai.
For heating
Stompies work in an open fireplace too. They catch quickly, burn with a lively flame and leave very little ash. Mix them with bloekom or blackwattle so the fire lasts.
For the environment
By repurposing wingerd stompies, consumers are making a sustainable choice for wood burning. Using these dried branches puts less pressure on growing trees specifically for firewood. As long as vineyards exist, prunings will be available for fuel.
Where can I find wingerd stompies?
Right here. We sell them in an XXL bag: Wingerd Stompies XXL bag, delivered across Cape Town. Not sure how much to order? Build my order for me.
