Stellenbosch has once again solidified its status as a premier wine destination, with several wineries achieving remarkable success at this year’s prestigious Trophy Wine Show. This annual competition, renowned for its rigorous judging and high standards, showcases the finest wines from across the country.
The standout performances of Stellenbosch wineries this year not only highlight their dedication to excellence but also underscore the region’s unique terroir and innovative winemaking practices.
The Trophy Wine Show
The results of the 2024 Trophy Wine Show, sponsored by Investec, are crucial for Cape wine producers. As we are in a market where domestic sales face significant pressure and exports remain uncertain, triumph at the nation’s most prestigious competition can be transformative for wineries. Savvy wine buyers understand that any medal awarded by the Trophy Wine Show judges is a hallmark of exceptional quality.
“We pride ourselves in partnering with our clients and creating experiences for those who never settle for ordinary. As headline sponsor of the 2024 Trophy Wine Show, we are not only proudly supporting South Africa’s exceptional wine industry, but we are giving our clients access to something they can’t get anywhere else, from first access to curated cases of award-winning wines to masterclasses and public tastings,” said Investec’s head of Private Banking, Itumeleng Merafe.
At the Trophy Wine Show, quality alone determines the final outcome. The wines are judged blindly by the three-person judging panels. Leading figures in the world of fine wine, such as Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW from Napa, Fongyee Walker MW from China and Claire Blackler MW from London, bring a wealth of judging expertise and an international vision to the panels. The local panellists, all graduates of the Wine Judging Academy run in conjunction with the University of Cape Town, contribute years of experience in determining quality across often large classes as well as hard-earned insights specific to Cape wines.
The Trophy Wine Show is a talent scout discovering new producers and identifying where new investments have led to massive improvements in wine quality, all while being a driver of innovation. The show has led the campaign in South Africa to reduce unnecessary packaging weight, which has an impact on the industry’s carbon footprint. Since 2023 every bottle entered for judging is weighed: an astonishing variance of 200% was recorded at this year’s show.
Stellenbosch Winners
Delaire Graff Estate
Banghoek Chardonnay 2022:
- Trophy for Best Chardonnay
- Investec International Judges’ Trophy
- Vinolok Trophy for Best Premium Wine
- Investec Trophy for Best White Wine Overall
Cape Vintage 2021:
- Tony Mossop Trophy for Best Cape Port
Kleine Zalze
Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021:
- Investec Trophy for Best Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage Brut Chardonnay Pinot Noir Cap Classique 2017:
- Gold Medal
JC Le Roux
Méthode Cap Classique Scintilla Vintage Reserve 2015:
- Trophy for Best Museum Class Cap Classique
- Trophy for Best Museum Class Wine Overall
Stark-Condé
Round Mountain Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (Wooded):
- Sunday Times Trophy for Best Sauvignon Blanc
- Trophy for Best Organic Wine
Thelema
Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2015 (Unwoonded):
- Trophy for Best Museum Class Sauvignon Blanc
Zevenwacht Wine Estate
Z Collection Reserve 2021:
- Riedel Trophy for Best Bordeaux-style Red Blend
Z Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (Wooded):
- Gold Medal
Blaauwklippen
Chardonnay 2023:
- Gold Medal
All the Winners
See the full list of this year’s Trophy Wine Show winners here.