Stellenbosch Winners at 2026 Investec Trophy Wine Show

The 25th anniversary edition of the Investec Trophy Wine Show delivered another commanding performance from local estates, securing a significant share of the top trophies and high-scoring medals in this rigorously judged national competition.

The 2026 show, which blind-tasted hundreds of entries under strict international judging standards, celebrated excellence across categories. While the national field was strong, Stellenbosch producers stood out for their consistency, terroir expression, and innovation — particularly in Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and niche varieties.

Top Honours for Local Estates

Diemersdal Estate emerged as one of the biggest winners of the show. Winemaker Juandré Bruwer was crowned Investec Champion Winemaker of the Year, while their Grüner Veltliner 2024 claimed the Investec Trophy for Best Niche White. Diemersdal’s versatility across white and red categories further highlighted the strength of Stellenbosch’s diverse sites.

*Delaire Graff Estate’s Winemaker, Morné Vrey*.

Delaire Graff Estate delivered an outstanding showing with their Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2022, which took home the Investec Trophy for Best Cabernet Sauvignon, the Investec International Judges’ Trophy, and the Investec Trophy for Best Red Wine Overall. Their Cape Vintage 2023 also excelled in the fortified category, reinforcing the estate’s reputation for powerful yet elegant reds.

*Rianie Strydom, winemaker at Cavalli Estate.*

In the white category, Cavalli secured the Trophy for Best Chardonnay with their Chardonnay 2025. This success underscores the growing acclaim for Helderberg and Stellenbosch Chardonnay, known for their freshness, structure, and aging potential.

Beyond the major trophies, several Stellenbosch estates collected gold medals and high 90s scores:

Kleine Zalze impressed with their Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, earning strong recognition and continuing a strong run of accolades.
Stellenzicht earned gold for wines like the Thunderstone Red 2024, showcasing the region’s prowess in bold, structured reds.
Other notable performers included estates producing exceptional Bordeaux-style blends and premium reds that consistently scored 95–97 points.

The results highlight Stellenbosch’s strengths in classic varieties — especially Cabernet Sauvignon and blends — alongside impressive showings in Chardonnay and niche whites. The region’s ability to produce wines with both immediate appeal and excellent aging potential continues to set the benchmark for South African fine wine.