Kanonkop, “standing shoulder to shoulder with the worlds top brands”, not only features as No. 12 in the Drinks International ‘most admired wine brands 2024’, but is this years fastest climbing wine brand, climbing a huge 31 places, as well as being rated the most admired brand in South Africa & the Middle East.
Greystone Winery, a trailblazer in organic wine production, celebrates a significant milestone in its quest to redefine sustainability. Following three years of pioneering work, Greystone is proud to announce the expansion of its innovative ‘High Wire’ trellising system, to over 25% of its vineyard. The High Wire project represents Greystone’s commitment to innovation and organic regenerative farming. Through meticulous testing and refinement, the winery aims to reshape traditional New Zealand viticulture practices.
Mike Saunders, Viticulturist at Greystone Winery, reflects on the journey: “Our decision to trial the High Wire system and integrate year-round sheep grazing stemmed from several key objectives. We aimed to reduce our environmental impact by minimizing tractor usage and diesel consumption, thereby lowering our carbon footprint. Additionally, we sought to improve soil health, optimize viticultural outcomes, and enhance the resilience of our business.”
The success of the trial period has empowered Greystone to scale up this ground-breaking approach, as Saunders explains: “The integration of sheep grazing into our vineyard, along with the promotion of biodiversity, has enriched our vines in profound ways. Grazing behaviours contribute to efficient nutrient cycling, nurturing strong, resilient vines and root systems.”
Dom Maxwell, Greystone’s Winemaker, highlights the impact on wine quality: “As our vines mature and coupled with this holistic approach, we’re witnessing wines that are more expressive, complex, and balanced.” Nick Gill, Greystone’s General Manager, emphasizes the winery’s commitment to continuous innovation: “Expanding the High Wire system underscores our dedication to regenerative organic farming and sustainable vineyard management. Our approach extends beyond viticulture; we proudly feature vineyard-raised lambs on our restaurant menu, contributing to a more eco-conscious future and additional revenue streams.”
Stephen McGowan, Greystone Sales, and Marketing Manager underscores the importance of transparency: “As consumer preferences evolve, Greystone aims to lead the way in environmental stewardship. Our dedication to regenerative organic farming resonates with consumers seeking healthier and sustainable choices.”
Over the past three years, Greystone has achieved remarkable milestones:
• 50% reduction in carbon emissions through minimized tractor usage and natural weed control by sheep.
• Enhanced soil health and structure through minimal tillage farming.
• Increased biodiversity and natural pest control with multi-species pastures.
• Improved grape quality and complexity due to enhanced vine health and soil nutrient richness.
The integration of sheep grazing into the vineyard has played a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting soil health. This innovative approach aligns with Greystone’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
SO’s Drinks Editor James Viner picks his top ten of finest festive tipples to get the party started…
and at No 2.
2022 Bird in Hand Sparkling Pinot Noir, Australia
Nab this smart, appetising, generously discounted, red-fruited, pale, blush pink South Australian aperitif-style sparkling hit. It gives you a lot of bang for your buck and is good value even at the full price. A perfect celebratory foil for smoked salmon and turkey sandwiches.
Suzy Atkin writes to Delicious magazine:
Be adventurous
Bird in Hand Sparkling 2022, South Australia 12.5%
This pale pink bubbly is made in the same method as champagne. Fresh strawberries and rich layers of cream jump from the glass with plenty of bubbles.
Jancis Robinson writes in her weekly Purple Pages:
Bird in Hand, Sparkling 2023 Australia
A simple, pretty, off-dry Pinot-based fizz at a good price.
Bird’s the word: the Aussie wine is a hit with the fashion crowd (Bird In Hand)
A tumbledown farmhouse might seem an unlikely birthplace for a wine known now for its place among artists and A-listers, but that’s how it started for Bird In Hand, when in 1997 founders Andrew and Susie Nugent bought a crumbling building in the Adelaide Hills of southern Australia. A dairy farm with salt rot already setting in, it was old but it was right: the north-facing hills rich with nutrients, the water good.
The Nugents still live there, only now there are five of them: Lalla, Edward and Oscar with their parents. With the cattle gone, the land was planted with pinot noir, shiraz, sauvignon blanc, and chardonnay; the first vintage came in 2001. Life was good. And that, the Nugents explain, is the basic philosophy behind the brand: wine makes life a little better, and life makes wine a little better. Family life, yes, but life when it’s full with philosophy, culture, creativity, art. Art especially.
(Dave Benett/Getty Images)
“We have a love of art in its fullest sense,” Andrew Nugent says. “Wine, food, music, design. Nothing surpasses the… the fusion and creative energy that results from multiple disciplines coming together, combining in unison.”Which is how, in a roundabout way, Bird In Hand has ended up being a hit with of the likes of Liv Tyler (“I just adore [it]. My favourite is the syrah — it’s become an absolute staple at my table”) and Brooke Shields (“Their kindness really shines through in their amazing vineyard — a favourite is the Nest Egg chardonnay.”). Because the Nugents love their wine, but are driven by something else, too. What? “The constant search for creative inspiration,” says Andrew. “And the delight in sharing elevated moments.”This desire to share is what’s driven the family to build what they dub “creative partnerships” with the likes of the National Portrait Gallery, Clapham’s Studio Voltaire and even the Standard’s own Theatre Awards. There are more at home — the National Gallery of Australia being perhaps the biggest, though the brand has also long worked with indigenous Australian art collaborative the APY Collective (supporting the indigenous population is a keystone for the brand: “To be able to celebrate and learn from more than 65,000 years of Australian culture… is hard to surpass.”).
(Helen Abraham Photography)
But why should cultural relationships matter to a wine brand? “They matter if there’s love and creativity at their core,” Andrew explains. “Then they result in the shared moments of fun, joy and artistic expression. They become valuable to us personally.” That personal value is clear, as it’s driven the Nugents to move their wine into music, theatre, and performance. “Liam Gallagher created a special moment,” Andrew says, perhaps knowingly, but at exclusive suppers and awards and on red carpets, other friends have been made — think Naomi Watts, David and Victoria Beckham, Cindy Crawford, Alexa Chung. Clearly, the combination of a shared philosophy and first-rate wine is a potent one. These connections help keep the brand’s profile high, which in turn helps the Bird in Hand foundation, 10 next year. It’s one foundation that supports 11 others — some beneficiaries are culturally-tuned, but others help seriously ill children, the blind, refugees, another sponsors school scholarships. The next time there’s a red carpet, a gallery launch, or a high-profile concert, there may also be Bird in Hand. It’s all a long way from that tumbledown farmhouse.
Rust en Vrede, situated within a historic Cape Dutch cellar on a wine estate in the foothills of the Helderberg, offers a quintessential winelands dining experience. The restaurant, surrounded by oak trees and vineyards, has been serving guests since 2007 under the leadership of head chef Fabio Daniel. Chef Fabio’s contemporary French cuisine, influenced by his Brazilian and Italian heritage, is crafted from fresh seasonal products with a focus on the age and quality of the beef and venison.
Rust en Vrede is not only known for its exceptional food and wine but also for its rich history in winemaking, dating back over 300 years at its Stellenbosch estate. The estate is particularly noted for its robust red wines. Visitors consistently praise the outstanding quality of both food and service, with wine tastings being a highlight of the experience.
The estate’s location adds to its charm, making it a recommended destination. While dining options are focused on salmon or steak, the dishes, especially the fillet, receive high acclaim for their quality. The wine pairings are considered good value, contributing to a fine dining experience that makes Rust en Vrede a top choice for those seeking a delightful afternoon in the winelands with family and friends. Additionally, guests are encouraged to try the estate’s brandy, rounding off what is invariably described as an amazing visit.
Gateway Magazine Posted on 6 December 2023
For full article please click here
Australia’s signature labels continue to play a key role in maintaining the country’s reputation for quality. Bottlings from Mollydooker consistently top the leader board—and for good reason. These estates all make compelling wines, and their scores perennially reflect that. Whether single-vineyard expressions or regional blends, the wines from these leading producers represent the best of what Australia has to offer.
Gigglepot 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon 90 pts
A ripe, generous expression of Cabernet, with blackberry cobbler, vanilla cream, fresh violet and blueberry preserves on a lush, creamy frame, plus accents of mocha. Reveals spice, cedar and additional chocolaty notes on the finish. Drink now.
Maitre’ D 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon 90 pts
A fragrant red, featuring notes of tobacco, oud, palo santo and violet, while hints of eucalyptus and iodine complement the blackberry and blueberry syrup flavors and dense, toothsome tannins.
Drink now through 2036
Velvet Glove 2020 Shiraz 95 pts
Rich and opulent, with notes of chocolate cake, framboise, salted toffee and espresso, along with more savoury details of toasted cumin, rosemary and cedar. A hint of fresh spearmint and shavings of bittersweet chocolate linger on the long, velvety finish. Drink now through 2034.
Carnival of Love 2021 Shiraz 93 pts
This stylish and distinctive red is decidedly ripe, with notes of cherry and berry preserves at the core, accented by spearmint, menthol, spicy clove and cardamom hints that add complexity and aromatics. A chocolaty note gains momentum, as does a touch of sandalwood on the long, expressive finish. Drink now.
Blue Eyed Boy 2021 Shiraz 92 pts
Dense and generous, with ripe black cherry, raspberry and blueberry preserves, accents of espresso and bittersweet chocolate, plus hints of palo santo and spices on the lush, juicy finish. Drink now through 2032.
Enchanted Path 2021 Shiraz, Cabernet 92 pts
Dense and firm, with notes of graphite, black liquorice and fresh-cracked black pepper, along with cedar, tobacco and spices. Delivers ripe, concentrated dried blueberry, plum and cassis flavours, showing plenty of restraint on the black tea–laced finish. Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2038.
Two Left Feet 2021 Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot 92 pts
Appealing for its generosity and precision, with berry and cherry flavours that have a ripe, candied edge, showing hints of peppermint, mocha and Saigon cinnamon that add aromatics and complexity. The tannins are dense but polished, leaving a velvety impression. Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now.
Boxer 2021 Shiraz 91 pts
Plush and polished, with ripe notes of maraschino cherry, milk chocolate and raspberry pre serves. Details of cinnamon, spicy tobacco and cumin add aromatic interest, with a lingering thread of toasted herbs. Drink now through 2029.
Despite the trials the country has faced, quality Australian wines remain widely available stateside. The country’s producers offer both benchmark styles and innovative expressions, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainable practices. The hope is that wine fans around the world are paying attention, because Australian wines are more than living up to their promise.
Decanter Magazine publishes an excellent article on Cap Classique, which in recent years has been one of South Africa’s fastest-growing wine categories
Traditional-method sparkling wine from South Africa, known as Cap Classique, has transformed itself. Both established and emerging producers now represent an effervescent, dynamic and ambitious sparkling wine scene that pulls every register in the vineyard and cellar to deliver quality. At long last, the best of these wines (including Sparkling Chenin Blanc from DeMorgenzon) are making it to our shores ready to make you sit up and take notice. Read this excellent article from Decanter Magazine
Click here to read the full article from New Zealand Wine.
Platinum Award
2018 Rust en Vrede 1694 Classification 97 points
Gold Medals
2021 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 95 points
2021 Paul Cluver NLH Riesling 95 points
2022 Rustenberg Wild Ferment Sauvignon Blanc 95 points
2017 Ernie Els Signature 95 points
Silver medals
2021 Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 93 points
2021 Bouchard Finlayson Croc’s Lair 91 points
2022 Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chard 93 points
2021 Bouchard Finlayson Sans Barrique 92 points
2022 Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay 90 points
2022 Paul Cluver Sauv Blanc 90 points
2020 Paul Cluver Chardonnay 90 points
2018 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir 92 points
2018 Glenelly Lady May 92 points
2016 Glenelly Estate Red 91 points
2020 Glenelly GC Syrah 91 points
2021 Rustenberg John X Merriman 92 points
2022 Rustenberg Sauvignon Blanc 92 points
2022 Rustenberg Chardonnay 92 points
2021 Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chard 94 points
2020 Rustenberg Peter Barlow 91 points
2022 Rustenberg Grenache Blanc 92 points
2020 Rust en Vrede Estate wine 91 points
2021 Rust en Vrede Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 91 points
2022 Donkiesbaai Steen 93 points
2021 Stellenbosch Reserve Vanderstel 90 points
2022 Stellenbosch Reserve Chardonnay 90 points
2015 Trentham Estate Noble Taminga 91 points
2019 DeMorgenzon Reserve Syrah 91 points
2020 DeMorgenzon Maestro white 90 points
2018 Ernie Els Proprietors Blend 92 points
2021 Ernie Els Big Easy Red Blend 90 points
2022 Kirrihill regional Riesling 91 points
2022 Capel Vale Debut Malbec 91 points
2022 Capel Vale Regional Riesling 94 points
2019 Golden Amrita Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 90 points
Bronze medals
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2020
Paul Cluver Village Pinot Noir 2021
Paul Cluver Pinot Noir 2021
Glenelly Estate Chardonnay 2021
Rustenberg Wild Ferment Unwooded Chardonnay 2022
Rustenberg Malbec 2021
Rustenberg RM Nicholson 2021
Rustenberg Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Rustenberg Fortified Old Vine Muscat of Alexandria 2021
Rust en Vrede Estate wine 2019
Donkiesbaai Donkiesbaai Grenache Noir 2021
Stellenbosch Reserve Cab Sauv 2021
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 2020
DeMorgenzon Reserve chenin 2020
DeMorgenzon Maestro Blue 2019
Kirrihill regional Shiraz 2021
A nice piece of personal reflection from winemaker Maggie Immelman of Darling Cellars can be read here.
Highlights as follows:
South Africa Hall of Fame
Best Value White of the Year – 2021 Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay, Elgin
“The kind of wine whose quality makes you do a double take when you look at the price [.. ]
this is a Chardonnay that could trick experienced professionals in a blind tasting.
Tank, foudre and stainless steel fermented, it’s a mini Puligny-Montrachet with yeasty
complexity and a citrus and wet stone core”.
Co-operative / Producers’ Cellar of the Year 2022 Darling Cellars
Best Cellar Door Experience 2021 (includes finalist) Waterford Estate, Stellenbosch
Wines of the Year
2019 Kanonkop Paul Sauer, Stellenbosch – 98 pts
2018 Glenelly Lady May, Stellenbosch – 97 pts
2017 Waterford Estate The Jem, Stellenbosch – 97 pts
2021 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay, Elgin – 96 pts
2020 Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage, Stellenbosch – 96 pts
2020 DeMorgenzon Syrah Reserve, Stellenbosch – 96 pts
2021 Paul Cluver Noble Late Harvest Riesling, Elgin – 96 pts
2021 Catherine Marshall Chenin Blanc Fermented In Clay, Western Cape – 95 pts
2021 Kaapzicht The 1947 Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch – 95 pts
2018 Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch – 95 pts
2019 Rustenberg Peter Barlow, Stellenbosch- 95 pts
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Tête de Cuvée Pinot Noir, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley – 95 pts
2021 Catherine Marshall Finite Elements Pinot Noir, Cape South Coast – 95 pts
2018 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir, Elgin – 95 pts
The best of the rest…..
Waterford Antigo Stellenbosch 2019 Red 91
Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch 2018 Red 94
Waterford Estate Kevin Arnold Shiraz Stellenbosch 2018 Red 93
Waterford Estate Single Vineyard Chardonnay Stellenbosch 2019 White 92
Waterford Estate Single Vineyard Grenache Noir Stellenbosch 2020 Red 93
Waterford Estate Single Vineyard Grenache Noir Stellenbosch 2019 Red 92
Steenberg The Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc Constantia 2021 White 92
Rustenberg Chardonnay Stellenbosch 2021 White 90
Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay Stellenbosch 2020 White 93
Rustenberg John X Merriman Stellenbosch 2020 Red 93
Rustenberg Malbec Stellenbosch 2020 Red 90
Rustenberg Old Vine Muscat of Alexandria Calitzdorp 2021 Fortified 91
Rustenberg Sauvignon Blanc Stellenbosch 2021 White 90
Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay Elgin 2021 White 93
Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir Elgin 2021 Red 93
Paul Cluver Estate Riesling Elgin 2022 White 93
Paul Cluver Estate Riesling Elgin 2021 White 93
Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc Elgin 2022 White 92
Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc Elgin 2021 White 91
Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay Elgin 2021 White 93
Lemberg Spencer Tulbagh 2018 Red 92
Lemberg Hárslevelü Tulbagh 2021 White 93
Lemberg Nelson Tulbagh 2018 Red 91
Kaapzicht Kliprug OVP Chenin Blan Stellenbosch 2021 White 92
Kaapzicht Rooiland Pinotage Stellenbosch 2020 Red 92
Kaapzicht Skraalhans OVP Pinotage Stellenbosch 2021 Red 90
Kaapzicht Steytler Pentagon Stellenbosch 2020 Red 93
Kaapzicht Steytler Pinotage Stellenbosch 2020 Red 92
Kaapzicht Steytler Vision Stellenbosch 2020 Red 93
Kanonkop Kadette Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch 2020 Red 92
Kanonkop Kadette Cape Blend Stellenbosch 2020 Red 91
Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage Stellenbosch 2020 Red 92
Kanonkop Pinotage Stellenbosch 2020 Red 94
Glenelly Estate Chardonnay Reserve Stellenbosch 2021 White 92
Glenelly Estate Reserve Red Stellenbosch 2017 Red 94
Glenelly The Glass Collection Cabernet Franc Stellenbosch 2020 Red 93
Glenelly The Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch 2020 Red 93
Glenelly The Glass Collection Chardonnay Stellenbosch 2021 White 90
Glenelly The Glass Collection Merlot Stellenbosch 2020 Red 92
Glenelly The Glass Collection Syrah Stellenbosch 2020 Red 91
DeMorgenzon Chenin Blanc Reserve Stellenbosch 2021 White 94
DeMorgenzon DMZ Chardonnay Stellenbosch 2021 White 91
DeMorgenzon DMZ Chenin Blanc Stellenbosch 2021 White 90
DeMorgenzon DMZ Sauvignon Blanc Stellenbosch 2022 White 90
DeMorgenzon DMZ Syrah Stellenbosch 2020 Red 91
DeMorgenzon Maestro Blue Stellenbosch 2019 Red 94
DeMorgenzon Maestro White Stellenbosch 2020 White 93
DeMorgenzon MCC Stellenbosch 2019 Sparkling 91
DeMorgenzon Syrah Reserve Stellenbosch 2020 Red 96
Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Chenin Blanc Darling 2021 White 91
Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Cinsault Darling 2020 Red 91
Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Cinsault Rosé Darling 2021 Rosé 90
Catherine Marshall Pinot Noir on Clay Soils Cape South Coast 2020 Red 94
Catherine Marshall Pinot Noir on Sandstone Elgin 2020 Red 94
Catherine Marshall Riesling Elgin 2021 White 91
Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir Hemel-en-Aarde Valley 2020 Red 92
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal Hemel-en-Aarde Valley 2019 Red 93
Bouchard Finlayson Kaaimansgat Chardonnay Elandskloof 2020 White 93
Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay Hemel-en-Aarde Valley 2021 White 93
Bouchard Finlayson Tête de Cuvée Pinot Noir Hemel-en-Aarde Valley 2020 Red 95
Please click here to download or view the Autumn 2022 Wine List
De-alcoholised Rose – Gold medal 96 pts & Low Alcohol (under 1.2%) Trophy
De-alcoholised Red – Silver medal 94 pts
De-alcoholised Sparkling Rose – Silver medal 90 pts
De-alcoholised White – Silver medal 90 pts
2022 Q & A with Alexandra Wardlaw, Winemaker at Kirrihill
WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
From the Champagne region, a small town called Villenauxe-la Grande. I studied winemaking for 4 years in Avize, a beautiful little town in the Cotes des Blancs.
WHEN DID YOU ARRIVE IN AUSTRALIA?
January 2018. I originally planned on staying for just one vintage at Kirrihill, so not much in the suitcase. 4.5 years later, I’m still here!
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE KIRRIHILL?
For its renowned cool climate Riesling as well as its proximity to the Yorke Peninsula and Adelaide. Our beautiful little Clare Valley is the perfect spot to enjoy a vintage coming from overseas and discover all things South Australia.
HOW MANY VINTAGES AT KIRRIHILL?
Vintage 2022 was my 5th with Kirrihill and my 3rd in a winemaking role.
WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT CLARE?
Firstly, I love Clare because this is where I met my husband Sam, we actually met at Kirrihill! We have a one-year-old son named Oliver. I decided to start a family in Clare because this region represents everything I value, a strong and dynamic local community, innovative and humble winemakers. It’s one big family and it makes up for being away from mine in France.
ALEXANDRA’S ASPIRATIONS
I’m passionate about developing my skills to become a wine show judge. This is the best way to get to know more about all aspects of Australian wine and be involved in the wine community.
Looking ahead – a review of the 2022 vintage at Kirrihill
SEASON
We were blessed with almost perfect ripening conditions in Clare throughout spring and summer. Good rainfall and cool weather allowed our grapes to ripen in a consistent manner leading to stunning levels of acidity and optimum maturity in our Riesling and reds. The moderate temperatures in January and February resulted in a slight delay in picking, but this allowed the fruit to ripen slowly and gently, producing premium fruit for our winemakers to showcase their skill and expertise.
HARVEST
We harvested our Clare Riesling two weeks later than normal, with picking commencing on the 1st of March and by the 15th of March, all the Riesling was in tank and happily fermenting. We are delighted by the depth of colour in our 2022 reds which are now almost through malolactic fermentation. This year we had access to grape varieties including Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mataro, Malbec and Grenache, an exciting range for our winemakers and vintage staff.
SOURCE
Over the 2022 vintage, we worked with varieties and techniques new to the Kirrihill stable, a perfect opportunity for our winemakers to use their skill, flair and have some fun. With the addition of small batches, including a parcel of Grenache from Clare, whole bunch fermentation of Grenache from the Barossa and hand selected Shiraz from our iconic Schobers vineyard, we are excited about the wines the 2022 vintage will deliver.
THE TEAM
It’s been a cracker of a vintage for the Kirrihill team and we couldn’t have done it without our brilliant vintage staff that joined us locally and from interstate. Despite challenges presented by covid travel restrictions, we were delighted to also have a strong international contingent joining us from Canada, France, South Africa and China.
THE WINES
Our wines already look amazing, reflecting Clare characteristics. The Riesling is pristine and limey with an appealing acid drive. The Shiraz has depth and texture with lovely red fruits and spices, the Cabernet shows blue fruit characteristics, is well balanced and has a lovely bright fruit spectrum. With the variation in conditions of each vintage, changing flavour profiles present the team with an opportunity to work with beautiful fruit, innovate and to create something special, that we know you will love to drink and share.
For more information about Kirrihill , please visit their website
Gold Medals
Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage 2019 95pts
Kanonkop Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 95pts
Silver Medals
Steenberg Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc 2021 90pts
Rustenberg Chardonnay 2021 94pts
Glenelly Lady May 2017 92pts
Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2020 92pts
Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 2020 91pts
Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile’s Lair Chardonnay 2020 91pts
Darling Cellars Old Bush Vine Chenin Blanc 2021 90pts
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2019 90pts
Bronze Medals
Rustenberg Muscat Blanc 2021
Bouchard Finlayson Blanc De Mer 2020
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2020
Rustenberg Malbec 2020
Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Cinsaut 2019
Kaapzicht Estate Rooiland Pinotage 2020
Bouchard Finlayson Sans Barrique Chardonnay 2020
Rustenberg Fortified Old Vine Muscat Of Alexandria 2021
Glenelly Lady May 2016
Bouchard Finlayson Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Kaapzicht Estate Skemerlig Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Bouchard Finlayson Tête De Cuvée Pinot Noir 2020
Trentham Estate Reserve Blanc De Blancs Brut NV
Trentham Estate The Family Nebbiolo 2021
Trentham Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2018
Trentham Estate Reserve Noble Taminga 2015
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 2019
Greystone Wines Organic Pinot Noir 2019
Not all vintages above are available yet
Our top scoring wines from this years DWWA competition were:
Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 2020 -Platinum 97 pts
Rust en Vrede 1694 Classification 2017 – Gold 95 pts
Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay 2020 – Gold 95 pts
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 2019 Gold – 95 pts
Followed by a whole host of Silver medals:
Bouchard Finlayson Tête De Cuvée Pinot Noir 2020 Silver 91
Bouchard Finlayson Kaaimansgat Crocodile’s Lair Chardonnay 2020 Silver 92
Bouchard Finlayson Blanc De Mer 2020 Silver 90
Donkiesbaai Suiderkruis 2019 Silver 93
Donkiesbaai Steen 2021 Silver 91
Ernie Els Signature 2016 Silver 90
Ernie Els Big Easy Red Blend 2020 Silver 94
Greystone Wines Organic Pinot Noir 2019 Silver 92
Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay 2021 Silver 94
Paul Cluver Estate Riesling 2021 Silver 91
Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir 2018 Silver 91
Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc 2021 Silver 91
Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay 2019 Silver 91
Rust en Vrede Estate 2018 Silver 90
Rust en Vrede Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 Silver 90
Rustenberg Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 Silver 91
Rustenberg Chardonnay 2021 Silver 92
Rustenberg Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 Silver 90
The Stellenbosch Reserve Reserve Vanderstel 2020 Silver 90
Trentham Estate Reserve Noble Taminga 2015 Silver 91
Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 Silver 92
Kanonkop Black label Pinotage 2019 Silver 93
Kaapzicht Rooiland Pinotage 2020 Silver 90
Steenberg Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc 2021 Silver 90
Steenberg Catharina 2019 Silver 91
Kirrihill Regional Series Shiraz 2020 Silver 90
Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 2019 Silver 93
Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 2020 Silver 94
The Doctors’ Riesling 2021 Silver 90
and yet more Bronze awards scoring between 86 & 89 points:
Bouchard Finlayson Sans Barrique Chardonnay 2020
Bouchard Finlayson Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2020
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2019
Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 2020
Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Chenin Blanc 2020
Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Cinsaut Rosé 2021
Paul Cluver Village Pinot Noir 2020
Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir 2020
Rustenberg Fortified Old Vine Muscat of Alexandria 2021
Rustenberg Chenin Blanc 2021
Rustenberg Malbec 2020
Rustenberg Fortified Muscat Blanc 2021
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2020
Stellenbosch Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Stellenbosch Reserve Chardonnay 2021
Trentham Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2018
Trentham Estate Reserve Blanc De Blanc NV
Kirrihill Regional Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Kirrihill Regional Series Riesling 2021
The Doctors’ Pinot Noir 2020
The Doctors’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Not all vintages as above are available yet.
‘Chris Wilson picks 15 brilliant Aussie wines from new tasting’, including the 2021 Kirrihill Mount Barker Riesling. Read his glowing review here.
Two great scores of 92 points from Tim Atkin MW in his 2022 Chilean Report:
A wine from the Atacama Desert sounds as if it ought to be hot and ripe, but this is no ordinary vineyard, or rather vineyards, since there are two parcels. Salty, tight and refreshing, it’s a Chilean Sancerre with mouth-watering acidity and a briny, nettley finish. Drink 2022-25
Alejandro Galaz produces this sappy, intense Syrah from vines on Leyda’s second terrace, located on a mix of alluvial and granite soils. Taut and refreshing with very little oak influence and layers of raspberry and black cherry fruit supported by sinewy tannins. Drink 2023-27
The following wines were awarded medals at this year’s IWC competition:
GOLD & TROPHY 2020 Bouchard Finlayson Tete de Cuvee Pinot Noir – SA Red Trophy 95 pts (2020 vintage available Autumn 2022)
GOLD & TROPHY 2020 Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz – Barossa Valley Shiraz Trophy 95 pts
GOLD 2020 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 95 pts
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile’s Lair Kaaimansgat Chardonnay 93 pts
2019 Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 93 pts *
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 91 pts
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Sans Barrique Chardonnay 92 pts
2020 Ernie Els Big Easy Red Blend 90 pts
2019 Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 93 pts*
2019 Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay 90 pts*
2020 Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir 90 pts*
2021 Paul Cluver Estate Riesling 90 pts*
2021 Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc 90 pts*
2018 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir 92 pts
2021 Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay 92 pts
2020 Rustenberg John X Merriman 91 pts*
2020 Rustenberg Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 92pts
2018 Trentham Estate Reserve Chardonnay 92 pts*
2015 Trentham Estate Reserve Noble Taminga 92 pts
2021 Capel Vale Mount Barker Riesling 90 pts
2020 Capel Vale Whispering Hill Riesling 90 pts
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Blanc de Mer
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir*
2021 Bouchard Finlayson Walker Bay Sauvignon Blanc*
2021 Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Chenin Blanc
2019 Greystone Organic Pinot Noir
2020 Paul Cluver Village Pinot Noir*
2020 Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay*
2021 Rustenberg Fortified Muscat Blanc*
2021 Rustenberg Fortified Old Vine Muscat of Alexandria*
2019 Rustenberg Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon*
2021 Rustenberg Stellenbosch Chardonnay*
2021 Rustenberg Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc*
NV Trentham Estate Reserve Blanc de Blanc
2021 Doctors’ Rose
2021 Kaapzicht Bush Vine Chenin Blanc
2020 Capel Vale Regional Cabernet Sauvignon
2021 Capel Vale Regional Sauvignon Blanc
* Awarded vintage currently in stock.
Please contact the office on 01206 231188 for availability of other wines.
Seckford Agencies are delighted to represent both Golden Amrita and JJ Hahn, located in the Barossa Valley, South Australia.
Both wineries are collaborating with familiar friends of Seckford. Kym Milne of Bird in Hand is the consultant winemaker for Golden Amrita and James & Jackie Hahn have teamed up with Rolf Binder to create the JJ Hahn label.
To view the wines on our site, please visit: Golden Amrita and JJ Hahn