Judges impressed by strong showings across vintages

The 2024 FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 competition judging panel included leading wine experts. Front from left is Pia Carstens from Ever South Africa; Anke van Zyl, an intern at Neil Ellis Wines; the panel convenor and Cape Wine Master Dr. Winifred Bowman; Dr. Carien Coetzee, oenologist of Basic Wine; and Morgan Steyn, winemaker of De Grendel Wines. Back from left are Johann Fourie, head winemaker of Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate; Mahalia Kotjane, owner-winemaker of Three Quarter Wines; Arno Cloete from FNB Agriculture and Kelsey Nel, assistant winemaker at Hartenberg Wine Estate. Photo: Natalie Gabriels Photography.

No less than 160 wines from 91 producers are competing for a coveted place in the 2024 FNB Sauvignon Blanc's SA Top 10.

This year’s competition drew strong entries across several vintages. Over three days, from 27 to 29 August, a panel of esteemed judges evaluated the entries at Uitkyk Estate in Stellenbosch, led by Cape Wine Master Dr. Winifred Bowman.

Joining Dr. Bowman on the panel were prominent wine experts Johann Fourie, head winemaker at Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate; Dr. Carien Coetzee, oenologist at Basic Wine; Morgan Steyn, winemaker at De Grendel Wines; and Mahalia Kotjane, owner-winemaker of Three Quarter Wines. Two protégé judges, Kelsey Nel, assistant winemaker at Hartenberg Wine Estate, and Anke van Zyl, an intern at Neil Ellis Wines, also joined.

Both wooded and unwooded styles show class, balance, and texture

The panel particularly praised the 2023 vintage for its pure varietal expression.

Bowman noted the effective use of lees aging in unwooded entries, enhancing complexity and texture, while in wooded examples, oak added depth without overpowering the fruit flavours. The panel also highlighted the balance and vibrancy across the entire style spectrum of the 2024 vintage.

"The best wines exhibited class, balance, and texture," Bowman said, adding that many excellent wines missed the final cut only by small margins.

Bowman praised Sauvignon Blanc SA for their continued efforts in keeping the variety in the spotlight, acknowledging its status as the country’s best-selling cultivar.

The panel convenor and Cape Wine Master Dr. Winifred Bowman. Photo: Natalie Gabriels Photography.

Acknowledging industry support

Coetzee, a member of the Sauvignon Blanc SA managing committee, expressed gratitude for the support of the long-term partners of the competition, which has been hosted since 2007. "The collaboration with FNB as Top 10 title partner and EVER Solutions as platinum partner is crucial to our ongoing pursuit of excellence in Sauvignon Blanc," she said.

Important dates

The twenty finalists will be announced later this month, with the FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 revealed at the awards event on Wednesday 16 October. A technical seminar and the Sauvignon Blanc SA Annual General Meeting are scheduled for Thursday 21 November at Hazendal Wine Estate.

For more information, please visit https://sauvignonblanc.com/ or contact info@sauvignonblanc.com or 082 808 1114. Follow Sauvignon Blanc SA on Twitter (@SauvignonSA), and on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn (@sauvignonblancsa) and join the conversation using #SauvignonBlancSA.

It’s back! South Africa’s favourite food competition  

The Porcupine Ridge Pizzeria Challenge - returns for a fourth outing to find out who is South Africa's favourite pizzamaker as voted for by consumers.

In last year’s hotly contested competition, the top spot was reclaimed by the 2021 winner, Gino’s of Robertsham, having lost out in 2022 to Ferdinando’s, one of Cape Town’s most popular pizzerias.

A Johannesburg institution, Gino’s also celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2023, a fact which made their victory all the sweeter! “It was a tremendous validation of what we do, which is to provide delicious Italian food made with passion and which is good value-for-money. What makes the win even sweeter is that the competition is voted for by the public, so it proves that we are doing the right thing for our customers,” said owner Gino Mazza.

The other restaurants who made it into the top 10 included Osteria Rossa (Bedfordview), Gino’s (Stellenbosch), Ferdinando's (Observatory, Cape Town), Mooiuitsig Kombuis (Groot Brakrivier), Piccola Rossa (Edenvale), Corlie’s Italian (Somerset West), Julia’s Eatalian (Potchefstroom), Lucio’s Pizzeria (Northcliff) and Enzo Pizzeria Trattoria (Scottburgh).

Says Porcupine Ridge spokesman Lynton Kaiser: “Last year’s competition was a real ding- dong battle and the rivalry, while fierce, was also very friendly. We had close to 100 eateries challenging each other for the top prize, including competing sisters, competing brothers, brand new establishments and 40-year old restaurants, all of whom made it into the top 10.

“What was also wonderful about last year’s challenge was the provincial representation of restaurants taking part. We had establishments in almost every province in the country participating which made it a truly national competition. It was also great to see restaurants in places like Groot Brakrivier, Potch and Somerset West doing so well.”

The good news is that while most of last year’s challengers have entered the challenge again this year, there is also a raft of newcomers eager to elbow the favourites out of the way.

“We are confident there’ll be more entrants this year and the competition will be even more intense while still remaining loads of fun,” adds Kaiser.

The rules stay the same, with the public voting for their favourite local pizzeria via a dedicated website. The restaurant with the most votes will be crowned South Africa's favourite pizzeria, picking up the ultimate bragging rights as well as wine and marketing collateral to the value of R40 000. A new introduction this year, sees additional prizes for all of the top 10 restaurants, each of which receive R1,800 in vouchers plus three cases of wine to award to their top, Porcupine Ridge-selling servers.

In addition, consumers, voting for their favourite venue, can win a weekly prize of six bottles of Porcupine Ridge wines and an EarthFire pizza accessories, with one lucky voter selected Grand Prize Winner at the end of the competition and receiving an EarthFire Tabletop Pizza Oven, pizza for a year from their favourite pizzeria (to the value of R2 000) and five cases of Porcupine Ridge Wines, for a combined value of R10 000.

The competition kicks off on September 1 with the last day of voting being October 31 and the top 10 announced in mid-November.

Restaurants interested in participating in the Porcupine Ridge Pizzeria Challenge should contact their local Vinimark reps or email clarissa@boekenhoutskloof.co.za.

96 Points For Morgenster Estate’s The Reserve White 2023 - Top Of The Class

Relaunched in 2022, The Reserve White, was reintroduced as part of their Crown Jewel collection, which epitomises the heart and soul of Morgenster Estate. 

Morgenster’s focus remains on their attention to detail from vineyard to bottle, as well as mastering the art of blending. This is something their late founder Giulio Bertrand was passionate about, and his legacy continues to live on through his daughter, Federica and granddaughter, Vittoria.

This was recently reaffirmed at the announcement of the 2024 Prescient Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 Report, which saw The Reserve White 2023 – yet to be released – score 96 points in the Sauvignon Blanc Semillon category. This impressive score was the highest mark awarded overall, endorsing Morgenster’s commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality.

Expected to be available later this year, The Reserve White 2023, was one of 20 Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blend entries received. The wines were tasted blind (labels out of sight) by a three-person panel, scoring done according to the 100-point quality scale.

96 Points For Morgenster Estate’s The Reserve White 2023

The Reserve White 2023 is a distinguished blend of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Semillon, sourced from two prestigious vineyard blocks on the farm. On the nose, the aromas remind you of citrus peel and subtle spices, which are followed by deeper layers of gooseberries, white peaches and quince. On the palate this elegant gem is complex and enticing; with a hint of lingering acidity, and great ageing potential.

To enquire about this award-winning wine contact marketing@morgenster.co.za.

Issued by: ON THE MARQUE PR & COMMUNICATIONS
Pictures: SUPPLIED




© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

A CELEBRATION OF WATERBLOMMETJIES
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September. 

Rhebokskloof cellar master Rolanie Lotz (left) with Windmeul Kelder winemaker Jenna Higgins.

Windmeul Kelder and Rhebokskloof Estate outside Paarl will host a fun-filled day of festivities suitable for the whole family.

The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of the Western Cape. It is only harvested for a short period each year, which makes it a sought-after ingredient. Used in heritage foods such as the traditional waterblommetjiebredie (stew), the KhoiKhoi used it for medicinal purposes and is packed with vitamins.

Waterblom pickers (left to right) Samantha September, Monique Saulse and Nichole Saulse.

CULINARY DELIGHTS

On the festival day, waterblommetjies will be featured in both the traditional and highly innovative ways. Windmeul will serve the traditional stew and fresh waterblommetjies will be available from the fresh produce vendor at the famous farmers’ market. Festival goers can also watch the experts in action during the highly competitive potjiekos competition. The Plaaskombuis will be serving breakfast and fabulous homemade stews and dishes.

Rhebokskloof Estate has pulled out all the stops with cellar master Rolanie Lotz collaboration with their chef to create some amazing offerings. Five award-winning wines are teamed up with a variety of waterblommetjie-infused dishes. From waterblommetjie teriyaki sushi to fritters, smoked snoek tarts, curried pork bon bons or braised beef spring rolls, all five tasting portions feature waterblommetjies in some way. Prepare your senses for a taste explosion, when paired with the exquisite estate wines.

Book your wine tasting and pairing slot from 09:30. There are only four sessions available and limited seats for each tasting. The tasting cost R350 per person. Visit dineplan.co.za for the slots and book now!

Potjiekos ingredients for Windmeul potjiekos competition

For a more extensive gourmet experience, a delectable four-course menu showcases this local delicacy in several novel ways. Each course has been perfectly paired with one of the exceptional estate wines. The first course features togarashi tuna with a crispy tempura-battered waterblommetjie flower for a delightful fusion of spicy and crunchy textures. This is paired with the Rhebokskloof Estate 2022 Chardonnay. The second course of braised and roasted pork belly is served with silky smooth celeriac puree, waterblommetjie ‘bubble and squeak’, topped with a zesty gooseberry chutney and is paired with the Rhebokskloof Estate 2020 Shiraz. The traditional waterblommetjie and lamb bredie (stew) makes its appearance for the third course complemented by the exquisite Rhebokskloof Estate 2020 The Rhebok. The grand finale is a dark chocolate tart with candied waterblommetjie ice cream. The Rhebokskloof Estate's Flatrock Sparkle ends the final course on a high note.

Indulge in these exquisite dishes crafted especially for the Waterblommetjie Festival. Book your table now for a culinary experience like no other. Bookings are essential. Tickets cost R550 per person. Bookings are essential. https://www.rhebokskloof.co.za/.../waterblommetjies-event/

Also try their waterblommetjie ice cream and wood-fired pizzas – obviously, there is one featuring waterblommetjies as well!

Rhebokskloof pairing menu

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

Outdoor enthusiasts can also get in some action before sampling the great food and wines at the Waterblommetjie Festival. The Run the Vines trail run will take place at Windmeul Kelder. Distances include a 3km for juniors, 5km, 10km and 17km with starting times between 08h00 and 08h45. Entry fees range between R80 and R180 depending on the distances and can be done online. All finishers receive medals. Register here.

Keen mountainbikers can head to Rhebokskloof Estate for some fun outrides with Paarl Trails from 09:00. There will be an easy 10km MTB Outride suitable for the kids, a 20km Outride and a 30km E-MTB Outride. Each ride will have a ride leader as well as a sweeper to assist and guide the riders. If you don’t have your bike with you, there will be bike and E-Bike rentals on offer. Book here.

Windmeul will serve up a waterblommetjie treat on Saturday, 7 September

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

At Windmeul Kelder Wynand Windpomp and Vosloo Bekker will perform live in alternating sets from 10:00 - 16:00 to keep the festive vibes going. Kids can look forward to a special treat with face painting and balloon twisting between 10h00 and 13h00 at Windmeul.

Rhebokskloof Estate will continue the festive atmosphere with background music throughout the days. While parents sip some awesome wines and savour amazing waterblommetjie dishes, kids can come out to play at both venues. Windmeul Kelder has a dedicated play area. Kids can enjoy the sprawling lawns at Rhebokskloof Estate as well as a special playground area under the trees.

Waterblom pizza at Rhebokskloof

WINNING WINES

This is a perfect time to stock up your wine cellar with wine specials while stocks last. Taste and purchase your favourite wines ranging from Windmeul’s highly acclaimed Chenin Blancs to Rhebokskloof multi-award-winning Shiraz. There is a wine for every palate.

ENTRY FEE – DONATION TO FESTIVAL CHARITY

Free entry to the venues can be secured with the donation of one tin of canned food per person. The cans will go to the official festival charity – Athlone House of Strength, a shelter for abused women and children in Paarl.

For more information, visit www.waterblommetjiefees.com or Waterblommetjiefees on Instagram and Facebook.

Issued by: PERIDOT COMMUNICATIONS

Pictures: SUPPLIED

©2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA 

Gear up to welcome summer, in the Ceres Valley, by participating in the Loxtonia Cherry Trail Run. 

The Loxtonia Cherry Cider is the ultimate summer refreshment.

The Loxtonia Cherry Cider is the ultimate summer refreshment, perfectly capturing the season's essence. We’re excited to welcome Cherry Time™ as a key sponsor this year. A perfect pairing with our Loxtonia Cherry Cider. Through their "Season of Splendour" campaign, we proudly present their premium cherries, renowned for their exceptional quality and flavour. to our Hand-picked at peak ripeness in the pristine Western Cape orchards, these large cherries will elevate your summer celebrations. Don’t miss the chance to savour their delicious cherries and the vibrant energy they bring to the day.

The first race of the Loxtonia Cherry Trail Run starts at 07h30 and runners and walkers of all ages are welcome. To enter visit Cherry Trail Run 2024 - Entry Ninja The entry fee for the 6km is R180 per person, 12km is R210 per person and R260 for the 21km All finishers receive a complimentary Loxtonia Cider with a Non-Alcoholic option for the designated drivers or a refreshing apple juice for the under 18s.

The trail run takes you through beautiful landscapes.

Diary listing information:
Loxtonia Cherry Trail run 2024
Date: Saturday, 9 November 2024
Time: 07:30-15:00
Start times: 21km: 07:30 ; 12km: 07:45; 6km: 08:00
Registration: Friday 15:00-18:00 and Saturday opens from 06:30
Price: 6km R180, 12km R210 and 21km R260
*No entries will be taken on RACE DAY for the 6km, 12km or 21km.
Tickets available at Cherry Trail Run 2024 - Entry Ninja Venue: Loxtonia Farm, Ezelfontein Road, Ceres

Lovers of South Africa's most iconic wine cultivar should take note of a new vintage of an award-winning single vineyard Pinotage from Badsberg Wine Cellar in the Breede Valley.

Philippie van der Merwe of Groote Vlakte farm, at the foot of the Badsberg mountains, knows what we know. This region offers ideal conditions for winemaking, with its wet, cold winters, mountainous terrain, floodplains, excellent irrigation, and dry summers.

The grapes for Badsberg’s 2022 Pinotage are sourced from a 15-year-old vineyard on Van der Merwe’s farm, planted on red, rocky, well-drained hillside soil. This 100% Pinotage is made from a single block yielding 14 tonnes per hectare. Notably, this very block won the General Smuts Trophy as the overall champion wine at the SA Young Wine Show in 2016.

Cellar master Willie Burger and his team are renowned for producing a range of quality wines that consistently win prestigious national and international awards. The promising potential of their Pinotage has been recognised with a gold medal for the 2021 vintage at the 2023 Michelangelo International Wine and Spirits Competition, alongside excellent results for previous vintages at the Veritas Awards and Vitis Vinifera Wine Awards.

Winemaker Jaco Booysen highlights the 2022 Pinotage’s distinctive ripe plum flavours. "Aging in French oak brings out a lovely vanilla character, with the wood seamlessly integrated," Booysen says. "This wine shows excellent aging potential of up to five years."

The 2022 Pinotage is part of Badsberg’s Premium range and is available for R115 per bottle on their website, www.badsberg.co.za, as well as in stores nationwide.

Visitors to Badsberg’s wine tasting centre will experience Boland hospitality at its best, such as a special kiddies’ goodie box that includes snacks, drinks, and activities. The centre is open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00 and Saturdays from 10:00 to 15:00; only closed on Christmas Day and over Easter weekend.

Badsberg Winery is located only 800 m from the Goudini Spa holiday resort, 20 km from Worcester and 80 km from Cape Town, in Goudini Road, Rawsonville.

For more information, visit www.badsberg.co.za, call 023 3443021, or send an email to info@badsberg.co.za. Follow @Badsbergwinecellar on Facebook and Instagram.

Issued by: YOLANDI DE WET PR 
Pictures: SUPPLIED




© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

Sometimes, all you need is some time out so you can rest, restore and recharge. 

There is something almost magically transporting about this location.

The Vergenoegd Löw Boutique Hotel & Spa, a member of the prestige portfolio of the European Heritage Project of historic, luxury country estates, is very protective of that tranquillity and preservation. Each of the individually appointed accommodation options nestles in its own peaceful, private quietude.

The accent is on detailed, thoughtful comfort and convenience. Capacious beds and fine-textured linens and soft furnishings; log fires in autumn and winter; floor-to-ceiling fenestration to feel close to nature in all seasons and to make the most of the mountain and vineyard views.

The exclusive accommodation is inspired by the farm’s classic 18th century Cape Dutch buildings, all sensitively restored for historic authenticity but repurposed for contemporary comfort.

The indulgent luxury spa

The Farm Lodge a former farm manager’s home, is a modern interpretation of the Cape Dutch style, with a tasteful, eclectic mix of antique and contemporary furnishings and finishes. The building has been repurposed to create four en-suite bedrooms, each individually appointed. They are all equipped with an indoor living space, a private jacuzzi and a generous veranda overlooking the gardens. The lofty interiors feature traditional wooden beams in an echo of the original interiors. The lodge is within easy reach of the historic farmstead, home to the Homestead Wine Lounge, two restaurants, the spa and gym/yoga room.

A short distance from the farmstead there are four modern Vineyard Suites, each with a living area opening onto a private sundeck, complete with plunge pool. The floor to ceiling windows look out onto uninterrupted vistas of either the Helderberg Mountains or the nearby vineyards.

A short distance from the farmstead there are four modern Vineyard Suites

The six free-standing Luxury Cottages reflect Vergenoegd Löw’s rich history, honouring its former residents - the winemaker, wood carver, and blacksmith - as well as themed gardens like the orchard, olive grove, and chef's garden, echoing the crops typical of an old farm. Crafted with the timeless elegance of Cape vernacular architecture, each cottage features traditional thatched roofs, creating a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary luxury. Nestled in their own secluded haven, every cottage is complemented by a private pool deck, perfect for soaking up the tranquil vistas. The heart of each cottage is a spacious lounge - a communal space which flows seamlessly into the outdoor area, where a generous pool awaits.

The Presidential Suite offers complete privacy, exquisite sunrises and sunsets, its own crystal pool and sundeck, a jacuzzi and spacious veranda. There’s a dining table for 12 (that comes with dishes chosen from the farm’s restaurant menus and private service, of course), leather couches and a dual fireplace to warm up both the bedroom and the living room in cooler weather. Ample and luxurious, gracious and comfortable, it is the acme of detailed, considered but masterfully understated luxury.

The Presidential Suite offers complete privacy, exquisite sunrises and sunsets, its own crystal pool and sundeck, a jacuzzi and spacious veranda.

Then there’s the Owner’s Villa, a contemporary architectural triumph. It has seven en-suite bedrooms, a spacious open-plan entertainment area, a large lap pool and deck overlooking the vineyards and Helderberg Mountains.

The indulgent, luxury spa with its signature milk bath and other treatments; gym/yoga room; mountain trails to walk or run; meandering gardens punctuated by bronze sculptures by leading local artists like the internationally celebrated Dylan Lewis; and a variety of wine-tasting options plus two terrific restaurants serving contemporary Cape heritage cuisine; mean you can remain on the estate without ever needing to leave, if you prefer.

There’s Clara’s Barn, for lunch or supper, that offers formal, five-course dining, enhanced by an outstanding cellar. (But if it’s non-alcoholic beverages you’re after, you’ll be very well looked after.) Much of the locally grown seasonal produce is sourced from the farm and small suppliers nearby. The dishes reflect the Cape’s local cultural and social history through the eyes of celebrated Stellenbosch chef Bertus Basson and his on-site acclaimed colleague Drikus Brink. Geuwels is their casual small-plate eatery that offers breakfast and lunch.

Chef Drikus Brink in front of Geuwels, one of the two terrific restaurants on the farm serving contemporary Cape heritage cuisine

Stop over at the Homestead Wine Lounge for a tasting of Vergenoegd Löw wines: red, white and Cap Classique. Fresh, elegant and restrained with a hint of the sea, they are a pleasure to try. They all reflect the passion and commitment of our young winemaker Vusi Dalicuba.

If you fancy a sensory adventure, consider a line-up of some of the cellar’s wines showcased in the special Indigenous Tasting, where you also get to sample local flavours from *bokkoms and biltong to roosterkoek. Resident sommelier George Young is at your service.

Hungry after a long hike but it’s too early for supper? Afternoon tea and home-baked indulgences are yours for the savouring in the historic 1717 homestead (available only to guests staying overnight.)

Stop over at the Homestead Wine Lounge for a tasting of Vergenoegd Löw wines

One of South Africa’s oldest working farms and a proud WWF Conservation Champion, Vergenoegd Löw is a regenerative enterprise where all cultivation focuses on building soil health, climate-resilience and biodiversity. Consider their Indian Runner ducks and Dexter cattle in this context. They eat the pests and the weeds and fertilise the soils, while the cover crops attract pollinators like honeybees, and insects that feed on vineyard pests. Nature’s integrated pest management!

If you want an away-from-it-all location that also happens to be close to local tourist amenities, then Vergenoegd Löw is for you.

It's all there for the taking in your own time. But, if you want an away-from-it-all location that also happens to be close to local tourist amenities, then Vergenoegd Löw is for you too. Take advantage of the pampering but come and go as you choose. Right at the gateway to Stellenbosch’s world-famous wine route, close to the cultural centre of Stellenbosch, to Somerset West, to captivating Cape Town, the airport and even the coastal resort of Hermanus, everything outside is within quick and easy reach.

Best of all, the well-trained and attentive staff will ensure everything goes according to your wishes. Just ask, and you'll be taken care of.

Click here to view a summary of what you can experience at the farm.

Click here to reserve your stay, your wine tasting (tip: try the award-winning Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay) or your meal.

Sometimes, all you need is some time out so you can rest, restore and recharge. Vergenoegd Löw is the ideal place for switching off, and slowly on again, at your own tempo.

The farm offers some of the best Stellenbosch accommodation and spa specials! To find out more, keep an eye on its social media and website, and sign up here to receive their informative newsletter.

Tel: +27 21 843 3248
E-mail: info@vergenoegd.co.za

Address: Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate, 1 Faure Road, Somerset West, off R310/Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch Wine Route (Please note, there is a new entrance to Vergenoegd Löw via Old Faure Road. Some maps may still indicate the old entrance in Baden Powell Drive.)

Visit https://vergenoegd.co.za/ for more information and https://vergenoegd.co.za/collection/all/ to peruse the selection and buy wine.

Sample from the range: if you prefer, reds only, whites only or mix it up the way you like.

Also see:
Vergenoegd Löw's 'Back to the Future' Wine Growing

Vergenoegd Löw has their ducks in a row

Issued by: AUGUST COLLECTIVE

Pictures: SUPPLIED

©2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA 

 

Zandvliet Wine Estate became the year’s most successful producer at the 2024 Shiraz SA Challenge with no less than two of its wines having been selected among the show’s Top 12 winners. 

Shiraz SA revealed the winners of the 12th annual Shiraz SA Challenge, with six vintages from a wide variety of regions performing excellently. 

The main sponsor was Vinventions, a long-time partner of Shiraz SA.

SIXTEEN WINNERS AWARDED IN THREE CATEGORIES

Sixteen winners were named in the three categories of the Shiraz SA Challenge. Zandvliet Wine Estate performed excellently by achieving two places in the Top 12 Shiraz:

The Top 12 Shiraz of 2024 are:

* Bon Courage The Pepper Tree Shiraz 2022

* De Morgenzon Reserve Syrah 2019

* Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Syrah 2020

* Leeuwenkuil Shiraz 2023

* Lomond Single Vineyard Conebush Shiraz 2021

* Nederburg The Winemasters Shiraz 2022

*Survivor Wines Syrah 2022

* Saronsberg Provenance Shiraz 2022

* Spier Seaward Shiraz 2022

* Stellenbosch Reserve Kruithuis Syrah 2022

* Zandvliet Kalkveld Shiraz 2020

* Zandvliet Hill of Enon Shiraz 2021

The 2024 Shiraz blend winners are:

* Benguela Cove Lighthouse Collection Moody Lagoon 2021

* Eagle’s Cliff Wines Arendskloof Shiraz Tannat 2020

* KWV Roodeberg Dr Charles Niehaus 2020

The 2024 Shiraz Rosé winner is:

* Eerste Hoop Shiraz Rosé 2024

JUDGES IMPRESSED WITH EXCELLENT QUALITY

A distinguished panel of leading wine experts, led by De Grendel’s cellar master Charles Hopkins, judged the entries from 16 to 19 July at Nederburg. Joining Hopkins on the panel were Cape Wine Master Bennie Howard, vice chairman of the SA National Wine Show Association; Heidi Kritzinger of Kanonkop Wine Estate; Nongcebo Langa, winemaker of Delheim Wines; RJ Botha, Cellar Master of Kleine Zalze; and Karabelo Masoleng of De Grendel as protégée.

According to Hopkins, the panel was impressed with the variety and quality of the entries. "The winners are all great wines that can confidently carry the flag of Shiraz in South Africa," says Hopkins. “While most of the 100% Shiraz entries were from the 2022 and 2021 vintages, we also tasted excellent wines from older vintages. The range of our Shiraz styles is impressive, from big, complex wines, to modern, more delicate styles with a lower alcohol content, made from whole bunches of grapes that were harvested earlier, giving the wines a unique peppery character. "

Wine MS assisted the judges, and Exceed Group audited the process and the results. Crystal Direct sponsored glasses, and Lebone Paarl Labels provided the bottle seals for the winning wines. Unused wines were donated to the Pebbles Project.

JORDAN HONOURED AS THIRD SHIRAZ TROPHY WINNER

Shiraz SA awarded the third annual Bellingham Bernard Podlashuk Shiraz Trophy to Jordan Wine Estate, along with a cash prize of R30 000, sponsored by Bellingham.

This magnificent trophy is named after the "Father of South African Shiraz", Bernard Podlashuk. Together with his wife Fredagh, Podlashuk bought the farm Bellingham in Franschhoek in 1943, and they became the pioneers who bottled South Africa's first single-varietal Shiraz in 1956.

In 2022, Saronsberg became the first trophy recipient, in recognition of their performance over the first decade of the Shiraz SA Challenge. Creation Wines was awarded as the second winner in 2023 after the future criteria were established as "sustainability, excellence, innovation, creativity, and social responsibility", in collaboration with Andrew Harris of Bellingham.

This year’s panel included Francois Haasbroek of Shiraz SA's Management Committee, Dr. Etienne Terblanche of Vinpro, Prof. Jako Volschenk of Stellenbosch University Business School, and Gerard Martin, South Africa Wine Manager: Research, Development, and Innovation. Three finalists were chosen, with Jordan outperforming two other worthy contenders, namely Babylonstoren and Stellenrust.

CELEBRATE NATIONAL SHIRAZ DAY ON 21 AUGUST

Shiraz SA invites all fans of the cultivar to celebrate national Shiraz Day on Wednesday 21 August. "Make sure to book for our special pairing experiences of Seven Days of Celebrating Shiraz," says Edmund Terblanche, Chairman of Shiraz SA.

Visit www.ShirazSA.co.za for all the results and more information. Join the conversation on social media with #ShirazSAAwards and follow Shiraz SA on X @Shiraz_SA, Facebook @ShirazSouthAfrica, and Instagram @shirazsouthafrica.

Issued by: YOLANDI DE WET PR 
Pictures: SUPPLIED




© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA