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A vin-torius year for Stellenbosch: celebrating excellence across competitions

A vin-torius year for Stellenbosch: celebrating excellence across competitions

Stellenbosch is synonymous with world-class wines. This year, Stellenbosch wine producers further solidified their stellar reputation by dominating multiple prestigious competitions. Let’s raise our glasses to the region’s recent successes. 

Standard Bank SA Chenin Blanc Top 10 Challenge: Stellenbosch: The Undisputed Capital of Chenin Blanc 

The results speak volumes with Stellenbosch producers clinching six out of the top 10 spots for their exquisite Chenin Blanc wines. A special mention goes to Stellenrust Wine Estate, bagging four of the top positions – a truly remarkable feat.

 

Absa Top 10 Pinotage Awards:  Stellenbosch Reigns Supreme in Pinotage 

With five out of ten top spots, Stellenbosch wines have undeniably proven their calibre in this indigenous South African varietal. Standout estates from the region include Spier Wine Farm, L’Avenir Wine Estate & Country Lodge, Beyerskloof, Kanonkop Wine Estate, and Koelenhof Wine Cellar. 

Tim Atkin 2023 South Africa Special Report: Stellenbosch Wines Make a Mark in Atkin’s Report 

Tim Atkin’s annual report is highly regarded and an authoritative guide to South African wines. This year, Stellenbosch stole the limelight with awards for best value red wine, best cellar door experience, overall red and rosé wines of the year, and recognition for winemaking legend Etienne Le Riche. Boschkloof wines scored the only 100-pointer this year.

 

2023 FNB Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 competition:  Stellenbosch’s Sauvignon Blancs Shine Bright 

Ten Stellenbosch producers raced to the top 20 finalists, showcasing the region’s exceptional talent in creating crisp, refreshing, and complex Sauvignon Blancs. Join us as we raise our glasses and hold thumbs for Flagstone, Kleine Zalze, Le Grand Domaine, Simonsig, Spier, Stark-Condé, Zevenwacht and Zorgvliet.

 

Investec Trophy Wine Show:  Stellenbosch’s Stellar Performance Continues 

The region’s winemakers showcased their finesse by securing major trophies in this esteemed competition, with standouts like Eikendal, Neil Ellis, and Zevenwacht impressing the judges.

 

Amorim Cap Classique Challenge:  Bubbling with Pride 

South Africa’s Méthode Cap Classique wines are causing a stir on the global stage, and Stellenbosch’s entries in the Amorim Challenge were no exception. With Louisvale and Simonsig leading the charge, the region’s sparkling wines are undoubtedly among the best.

 

In conclusion, Stellenbosch, the heartland of South African wine, continues its legacy of excellence. Each accolade is a testament to the relentless pursuit of perfection by the region’s producers. As we look forward to another year of vinous achievements, we toast to Stellenbosch’s unwavering commitment to world-class winemaking.

Cheers to Stellenbosch – a region that never ceases to amaze.