Dorstige Dertigs Win 41st Blaauwklippen Blending Competition

A total of 78 entries were received for this year’s annual Blaauwklippen Blending Competition.

Blaauwklippen winemaker, Narina Cloete (middle) with The Dorstige Dertigs Wyn Klub

Celebrating 41 year of the art of wine blending wine clubs from all over the country submitted their blends, but it was The Dorstige Dertigs Wyn Klub from the Western Cape who took home top honours.

Open to all aspiring winemakers this competition is there to encourage wine enthusiasts to create a winning blend.

For this year’s competition, the brief was to create a serious Bordeaux style blend with components from a very challenging 2023 vintage. Blenders received four wines (1 x Cabernet franc, 1 x Malbec, 1 x Merlot, 1 x Petit Verdot) and all four components had to be used in the final blend. A maximum 65 % of each Cultivar, with a minimum of 5% of each component had to be included in the blend.

The winning blend comprised 45% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot, 9% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot. This blend was masterfully blended with floral cassis notes, supported by nuances of fruitcake, plum and dark chocolate. Fresh textured tannins give way to a juicy mid palate and a plush aromatic finish. Enjoy with friends now, or cellar for 15 to 20 years.

The other finalists to make it to the awards ceremony in order of rank were:

Second place: Sophie’s Choice (Western Cape)

Third place: VATS (Gauteng)

Fourth place: Fae-Bulous Wine Club (Gauteng)

The judging panel was chaired by Blaauwklippen winemaker, Narina Cloete, who was joined by Clive Torr, Guy MacDonald, Helena Melis and Alastair Rimmer.