Ultra Value Wine Challenge Results 2016/17

Monday, 3 October, 2016
buybetterwine.com
Looking after consumers. The second set of annual results. The industry wine challenge that assists consumers find the smartest buys for under R100.

Ultravaluewines.comThe second Ultra Value Wine Challenge attracted continued strong support from a large range of stellar producers.  Collectively they entered 500 carefully selected wines that met the strict price category of sub R100 per bottle, VAT included.

Robin von Holdt reviewed the 2016 Challenge: ‘We are delighted with enthusiastic industry support for this key, and growing, category of best-value.  Tougher times lie ahead, yet many are keen to enjoy their lifestyle of enjoying good wine. And why not? The value sector is high growth and remains a hugely enticing arena.  Bang for buck; outperforming through a combination of quality at very attractive prices, is key’.
 
The support was contagious and healthy from leading vineyards, big and small producers alike.  The lead-up with #Frugalfridayfeasts and #Throwbackthursdays continued to gain media traction.
 
‘Overall Challenge chair Ginette De Fleuriot had a credible team of nine expert judges.  Three panels were chaired by Richard Kershaw MW, Fiona McDonald and JD Pretorius.  Their focus and ensuing debates around each wine were thrilling. A significant portion of wines simply did not get through that first, arduous, quality hurdle.  Then, the algorithm that took price into account in order to arrive at the value-adjusted final result, saw another substantial number of wines fall aside.  Therefore the victories are really sweet for those wines that cracked the final nod and gained an award, as confirmed by the independent Auditors.
 
In line with international competitions and to keep an eye on the reputation and prestige of winning an award, under 60% of entered wines, were awarded. Of these, just 7% of wines gained Double Gold Medal awards. Less than 17% gained Gold Medal awards, while a little over 30% gained Silver Medal awards.  Awards, without any doubt whatsoever, were very difficult to achieve. They were hard earned, thus deserving the strong recognition and attention that they will receive this year yet again.
 
Our thanks go to all supporters and our congratulations of course go to all of the winners.’
    
The top 10 highest-scoring winning wines included:

• Riebeek Cellars Shiraz  2016 97/100
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Merlot 2014 96/100
• De Wet Cellar White Muscadel 2015  95/100
• Landskroon Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2016 95/100
• DGB (PTY) LTD The Beach House Sauvignon Blanc 2016 94/100
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Pinotage 2014 94/100
• Ashton Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2016 94/100
• Ultra Liquors Secret Cellar MMC 702 2014 94/100
• De Wet Cellar Chenin Blanc 2016 93/100
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Signature Chenin Blanc 2016 93/100


Industry comments for  the Top 10 awarded wines

Wine maker Alecia Boshoff, Riebeek Cellars:
 
‘Shiraz, being the most planted red wine varietal in the Swartland region, is a very important cultivar for Riebeek Cellars. This specific wine is a true example of what Shiraz in the Swartland can produce. The grapes were harvested optimally ripe and then crushed into and fermented in stainless steel tanks with regular pump-overs during fermentation. A component of the wine was matured with French oak (medium toast). Collection Shiraz 2016 97/100.’

De Wet Cellars wine maker Ters Jonck:
 
‘The Chenin blanc 2016 (93/100) is close to our heart. This wine comes from a Single vineyard that produces quality year in year out.  De Wet Cellar is renowned for its Muscadel’s (95/100). To receive a reward for it we know the old recipe must remain the same for tomorrow’s cold winter nights.’

Landskroon's Paul de Villiers, Cellarmaster:
 
‘We are not surprised with the Double Gold, a thrilling Top 10 Highest Score (95/100), for our Landskroon Sauvignon Blanc 2016.  This is such a great wine at a very attractive price.  A Sauvignon Blanc, that fills the palate with lovely tropical flavours, you can buy with confidence!’

Mark Norrish, Ultra Liquors Wine GM:
 
‘Our Secret Cellar MMC 2014 (94/100) continues to "WOW” both judges and customers. Blended by the Ultra Wine Guru and a well-known winemaker, this gorgeous wine follows up on the 2013 vintage which garnered Best Value wine at the OMTWS 2015 Show.

The Top Secret Cab/Petit Verdot is showing beautifully at present, and at under R50 a bottle it is indeed a wonderful buy for our wine clientele.’

DGB Marketing Director Greg Castle:

‘Double Gold is awarded to wines exceeding 90 points (out of a possible 100), which is an extremely high achievement, particularly in that the wines are priced well below R100 per bottle.  Of particular note, is The Beach House Sauvignon Blanc, achieving an exceptional score of 94/100, and thereby recipient of the Top 10 Highest Score Award.  Other DGB Double Gold Winners include Tall Horse Chenin Blanc, Franschhoek Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon and Brampton Cabernet Sauvignon.’

Ashton Winery joint wine makers Heinrich Coetzee and Simon Basson:

‘Our Sauvignon Blanc grapes this year were excellent quality and that coupled with the teamwork of our winemakers, Heinrich Coetzee and Simon Basson, resulted in the 2016 vintage being our best ever (94/100).’

Alvis Drift Dr. Alvi van der Merwe:

‘We are delighted that the Alvi's Drift Signature Chenin Blanc (93/100) was one of the 10 highest scoring wines at the 2016 Ultra Wine Challenge.   We are passionate about our wines and Chenin Blanc has been a speciality over the years, winning numerous awards around the world.  The 2016 vintage is a particularly ripe style, full flavoured and great value for money.   We are very pleased that the wine has been recognised by such an esteemed judging panel.’
 

Multiple winners included the following producers, each scoring weighty victories in most award categories:

• Douglas Green Bellingham 31
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar 14
• Namaqua Wines 11
• De Wet Cellar 10
• Overhex Wines International  10
• African Pride Wines 9
• Orange River Cellars  9
• Ultra Liquors 9
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  9
• Arabella Wines 8
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  8
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  8
• Flagstone Wines 7
• Ken Forrester Wines 7
• Robertson Winery 7
• Leopard's Leap Wines  6
• Riebeek Cellars 6
• Bonnievale Wines 5
• Landskroon Wines 5


Industry comments from top awarded cellars:
    
Greg Castle, Marketing Director of DGB Wines:

DGB, South Africa’s largest Independent producer, marketer and distributor of Wines and Spirits, comprising a number of famous South African wine brands with roots extending over 300 years of wine making, took home no fewer than 4 Double Gold, 16 Gold and 11 Silver awards in the annual Ultra Value Challenge 2016.  
 
‘We are particularly proud to have achieved top honours across our wineries entered into the competition.  With this range of both reds and whites coming through with top honours, it is a clear indication of the range ability and focus across cultivars and very different wine styles within our portfolio of brands.  Each wine brand has its own dedicated wine making team, unique brand positioning and personality, and yet at various price points we pride ourselves in over-delivering on consistent quality for any occasion.  Wine doesn’t have to be fussy and expensive to be consistently great quality.’  Greg went on to say, ‘These accolades are all the more encouraging in highlighting that we are indeed on the right track in not only producing top-end wines of exceptional international acclaim, but also wines for everyday consumption, enjoyed by people who are simply seeking great quality wine to share with family and friends, at everyday affordable prices.’  (31 winning wines.)

De Wet Cellar – Ters Jonck Wine maker:

‘We at De Wet Cellar strive to hit the golden mean between quality and value for money.  To insure the quality side, we always over-deliver and by doing so we also keep the customer's confidence in our brand.  That’s why we are so proud of this achievement highlighting the fact that De Wet Cellar was the Winery of the year in 2014 at the Best Value Wine Awards.’  (10 winning wines.)
    
Overhex MD Gerhard van der Wath:

‘Overhex Wines International has established itself as a top performer in local and international wine competitions. Performing well at this competition underlines the company’s promise of consistent quality at an affordable price point.’ (10 winning wines.)
   
Alvi's Drift Dr. Alvi van der Merwe:

‘Alvi's Drift is family owned winery, striving to make great value for money wines.  These results are testament to this philosophy, proving once again, you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy a good bottle of wine.   The fact that we won so many awards across so many diverse styles is very pleasing to us.  To the wine buying public, it means that choosing Alvi's Drift is always a safe bet, no matter what the occasion or type of wine you are looking for.   We thank the judges for their support of this philosophy.’  (11 winning wines.)
   
Team Namaqua:

'Namaqua Wines take great pride in their products and so do our customers! We would like to thank the whole Namaqua team and our loyal customers for our great results in this year’s Ultra Value Challenge.'  (11 winning wines.)

Bussell Retief, Cellar Master at Van Loveren:

‘We are happy and proud of our team to be recognised in this way at the Ultra Value Challenge, confirming Van Loveren’s commitment to make quality wines that holds exceptional value to the consumer.’  (9 winning wines.)

Mark Norrish Ultra Liquors GM:

‘We are thrilled with these results once again this year. The super competent Judges have again totally endorsed what our commitment to the Customer is: “Superb wines at very affordable prices.” “Value for Money wine” is our mantra for Secret Cellar and Top Secret wines, and we are really proud of all the awards we received.’ (9 winning wines.)
 
Jason Neal, owner of Nicholson Smith Agencies:

‘It is a great honour to be named amongst the winners. In this extremely competitive environment where everyone is striving to create the best value for money wines in the market it is wonderful to be recognised for our tireless work to bring the consumer the best wines at the best prices.’  (8 winning wines.)
 
Carno du Toit – Marketing Manager African Pride:

'The Ultra Value Challenge is a great platform to create awareness that excellent wines need not cost a fortune and sets itself apart with a panel of reputable judges. We are delighted about our results, winning no less than 8 medals with our first entry into this competition.' (8 winning wines.)

Leopard's Leap CEO Hein Koegelenberg on Leopard's Leap’s performance in 2016 Ultra Value Wine Challenge:

‘In today’s world, good value should definitely be acknowledged and this recognition by the Ultra Value Wine Challenge gives us great joy. We believe that exceptional quality wine should be accessible to everyone and our focus is therefore to produce superb easy-drinking wines that offer affordable enjoyment for any occasion. We are delighted to receive 3 double gold, 1 gold and 2 silver awards.’ (7 winning wines.)

Ken Forrester:

‘There are times, lots of times in life, when to paraphrase another famous quote when a wine needs to be a drink! Yes imagine that? Wine in the "beverage category!!” When you get home from work and you NEED a glass of wine and you reach into the fridge and pour a chilled glass, take a sip and think "nice" ah ha! The simple "nice" is like 100 Parker points.  All your expectations were met and that is precisely the passion behind the Petit Brand. Hand harvested, carefully crafted wines for drinking as they used to say - vir louter wyn genot!’ (7 winning wines.)

Riebeek Cellars National Marketing  & Sales Manager, Alta Saayman:

‘Since our humble beginnings in 1941, Riebeek Cellars 75 years later, is ecstatic about the processes we have put together to resemble our viticulture and wine practices by mirroring our culture and lifestyle at Riebeek Cellars.  We have built a brand, our Riebeek lifestyle range which is thus far the most awarded wine under R50.00 in the Swartland area.  Hard work has been put in to get the most exposure for our wine in the National & International market and to make it accessible for most wine connoisseur and novice to experience the Swartland’s best.  We at Riebeek Cellars are thankful for the recognition and will always be motivated to give our wine public the best wine their hard earned money can buy.’ (6 winning wines.)

Paul de Villiers, Landskroon Cellarmaster:

‘Our Landskroon team is thrilled with our excellent results at this year’s Ultra Value Wine Challenge! Landskroon, situated on the South-Western slopes of Paarl Mountain, has a long family history of winemaking and has always been associated with good value for money wines.  A staggering total of 5 wines received accolades.’ (5 winning wines.)

Stellenbosch Vineyards winemaking duo, Abraham de Villiers and Bernard Claassen comments:

‘We are delighted that a large scale of our value wines entered have been recognised in such a positive light as it points out that our objective in satisfying the consumer needs for quality value wines is achieved.’ (4 winning wines.)

Brandvlei Cellars Manager Jean le Roux:

‘BC Wines focusses on quality wines at affordable prices. To win these prizes and be named a Quality Winner for 2016 is truly a great honour.’ (4 winning wines.)

Flagstone winemaker Gerhard Swart:

'We are very proud to see so many of our wines being recognised for their diversity and quality, which is part of our creative approach to winemaking and philosophy to over deliver on wine quality for the specific price point.'

Stephen de Wet, owner of Arabella:

'Since inception in 2006 our aim at Arabella has been to produce excellent wines which present good value. Our success at the Ultra Value Challenge proves that we are achieving our goal and for this we are grateful.' (8 winning wines.)

Jacques Roux, Robertson Winery wine maker:
 
'At we pride ourselves in being able to supply great quality at an affordable price so that the consumer can have access to our products on a regular basis. Thanks to the Ultra Value Awards, we are very proud to be recognized for achieving this goal!' (7 winning wines.)

Ginette De Fleuriot judging chairman concludes:

'Judging wines with quality and value in mind is a very rewarding task.  It provides the panellists with an excellent overview of where our industry is at.  It also reminds one that there are some real gems out there which will bring great drinking pleasure but won’t break the bank.  It was most pleasing to see such an increase in the number of entries this year.  This confirms the confidence that our producers have in the Ultra Value Challenge, now only in its second year. Our experienced tasters worked in three panels over two days.  They had the quality of the wine in the glass in mind at all times. The panel discussions, which followed each category, were extremely valuable when tasting blind, ensuring that results are absolutely fair and that individual style preferences are not interfering with the final score. Without knowing the specifics and identity of the winners, we concluded the Challenge tasting with real optimism.  It was evident that there is great quality available for consumers – be they novices or more experienced wine lovers.'  
 
    
Result summaries include:
 
Double Gold medals 35
Gold Medal Winners 99
Silver Medal Winners 160
 
More than 200 entered wines received no awards.
 

The full list of winning wines by award follows:
 
Double Gold Medal Winners

• Riebeek Cellars Shiraz 2016 Score 97
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Merlot 2014 Score 96
• De Wet Cellar White Muscadel 2015 Score 95
• Landskroon Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 95
• DGB (PTY) LTD The Beach House Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 94
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Pinotage 2014 Score 94
• Ashton Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 94
• Ultra Liquors Secret Cellar MMC 702 2014 Score 94
• De Wet Cellar Chenin blanc 2016 Score 93
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 93
• De Wet Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Score 92
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards Tangled Tree Butterscotch Chardonnay 2015 Score 92
• Nederburg 56Hundred Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 92
• Place in the Sun Place in the Sun Merlot  2015 Score 92
• Brandvlei Cellar BC Wines Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 91
• Ken Forrester Wines  Petit Pinotage 2015 Score 91
• Leopard's Leap Wines  Leopard's Leap Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 91
• Orange River Cellars  Hanepoot  2015 Score 91
• Orange River Cellars  White Muscadel 2015 Score 91
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 91
• DGB (PTY) LTD Tall Horse Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 91
• Brandvlei Cellar BC Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 90
• Leopard's Leap Wines  Leopard's Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 90
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Bella Vino Sublime White nv Score 90
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 90
• Riebeek Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 90
• Ultra Liquors Top Secret Cab/Petit Verdot 2012 Score 90
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Rondebosch Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz 2015 Score 90
• DGB (PTY) LTD Franschhoek Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 90
• Steenberg Vineyards  Klein Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 90
• Zandvliet Wine Estate  Zandvliet My Best Friend White 2015 Score 90
• De Wet Cellar  Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Score 90
• DGB (PTY) LTD Brampton Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Score 90
• Leopard's Leap Wines  Leopard's Leap Merlot 2015 Score 90
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Pandora's Box Lock 1855 Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon nv Score 90

 
Gold Medal Winners

• African Pride Wines  Footprint 'The Long Walk' Merlot/Pinotage 2015 Score  89
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Shiraz 2015 Score 89
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Bella Vino Sultry Red nv Score 89
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  Arniston Bay The Originals Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2016 Score 89
• Louisvale Wines Stone Road Merlot 2014 Score 89
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Van Loveren Sauvignon blanc  2016 Score 89
• Vansha Farming (Pty) Ltd T/A Ridgeback Wines  The Lion Hound White 2016 Score 89
• DGB (PTY) LTD Bellingham Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 89
• Orange River Cellars  Chenin blanc 2016 Score 89
• Cape Point Vineyards  Splattered Toad Sauvignon Blanc  2016 Score 89
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Pandora's Box Blackbird Merlot nv Score 89
• Aan De Doorns Wynkelder R43 Deep Red 2015 Score 88
• African Pride Wines  Just Nuisance Merlot/Pinotage 2015 Score 88
• Ashton Winery Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 88
• DGB (PTY) LTD Saint  Augustine 2015 Score 88
• Kleine Zalze Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Chenin Blanc Bush Vines 2016 Score 88
• Mount Vernon Unbelievable Red nv Score 88
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Classic Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2015 Score 88
• Spier Wines Spier Signature Cabernet-Merlot-Shiraz 2015 Score 88
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  Versus Dry White 2016 Score 88
• Kleine Zalze Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 88
• Stellenbosch Hills Stellenbosch Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 88
• Welgemeend Estate Winery (Pty) Ltd  Welgemeend Chenin blanc 2016 Score  88
• De Wet Cellar Single Vineyard Chenin blanc 2016 Score 88
• Flagstone Wines Flagstone Poetry Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Score 88
• DGB (PTY) LTD Franschhoek Cellar Shiraz 2015 Score 88
• DGB (PTY) LTD Saint Morand nv Score 88
• Flagstone Wines Flagstone Truth Tree Pinotage  2015 Score 88
• Ken Forrester Wines  Petit Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Score 87
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Classic Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2016 Score 87
• Riebeek Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 87
• Zevenwacht Zevenswacht 7even Rood 2014 Score 87
• De Wet Cellar Red Muscadel 2016 Score 87
• Ultra Liquors Secret Cellar MCC BDB 428 nv Score 87
• Allée Bleue Wines (Pty) Ltd  Blue Owl Chardonnay 2016 Score 87
• Allée Bleue Wines (Pty) Ltd  Blue Owl Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 87
• Arabella Wines Arabella Natural Sweet Rose 2016 Score 87
• DGB (PTY) LTD Brampton Shiraz 2014 Score 87
• DGB (PTY) LTD Tall Horse Merlot 2015 Score 87
• Guardian Peak Guardian Peak Merlot 2015 Score 87
• Nederburg 56Hundred Merlot 2015 Score 87
• Ormonde Vineyards  Alexanderfontein Merlot 2015 Score 87
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Van Loveren Neil's Pick Colombar 2016 Score 87
• Arabella Wines Arabella Merlot 2015 Score 87
• De Wet Cellar Pettilant Fronte ( Perle ) nv Score 87
• De Wet Cellar Sauvignon blanc 2016 Score 87
• KWV Laborie Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 87
• Ormonde Vineyards  Alexanderfontein Boutonniere Red 2014 Score 87
• Riebeek Cellars Pinotage Rose 2016 Score 87
• African Pride Wines  Footprint 'The Long Walk' Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 86
• African Pride Wines  Footprint 'The Long Walk' Shiraz 2015 Score 86
• Brandvlei Cellar BC Wines Pinotage 2015 Score 86
• Louisvale Wines Stone Road Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Score 86
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua White Muscadel 2015 Score 86
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Shiraz 2015 Score 86
• Opstal Wines Fairbridge Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 86
• Orange River Cellars  White Jerepigo 2014 Score 86
• Ultra Liquors Secret Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 600 2015 Score 86
• Vansha Farming (Pty) Ltd T/A Ridgeback Wines  Vansha Red 2014 Score 86
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Chardonnay 2016 Score 86
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Chardonnay 2015 Score 86
• De Wet Cellar Shiraz 2015 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Brampton Rose 2016 Score 86
• Distell Chateau Libertas 2012 Score 86
• Robertson Winery Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 86
• Robertson Winery Ruby Cabernet 2015 Score 86
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Tangled Tree Tropical Sauvignon blanc 2016 Score 86
• Villiera Wines Villiera Tradition Brut Rose nv Score 86
• Aan De Doorns Wynkelder R43 Fruity White (semi-sweet) 2016 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Franschhoek Cellar Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Tall Horse Shiraz 2015 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Franschhoek Cellar Rose 2016 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Tall Horse Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Score 86
• Orange River Cellars   Chardonnay 2015 Score 86
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Van Loveren Red Muscadel  2015 Score 86
• Allée Bleue Wines (Pty) Ltd  Starlette Blanc 2016 Score 86
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Jan Braai Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz 2016 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Brampton Unoaked Chardonnay 2016 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD The Beach House Rose 2016 Score 86
• Distell Two Oceans Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 86
• Fairbridge Fairbridge Chenin Blanc nv Score 86
• Landskroon Wines Cinsaut 2015 Score 86
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Cape Vintage 2015 Score 86
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Red Muscadel 2015 Score 86
• Opstal Wines Sixpence Sauvignon blanc Semillon 2016 Score 86
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Merlot 2015 Score 86
• Spier Wines Spier Signature Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 86
• Stellenbosch Vineyards Welmoed Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 86
• Welbedacht Wines Meerkat Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Score 86
• African Pride Wines  Footprint 'The Long Walk' Merlot 2015 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Bellingham Homestead Shiraz 2014 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Bellingham Pinotage 2014 Score 86
• DGB (PTY) LTD Franschhoek Cellar Merlot 2015 Score 86
• Leeuwenkuil Family Vineyards  Leeuwenkuil Shiraz 2015 Score 86
• Leopard's Leap Wines  Leopard's Leap Shiraz 2014 Score 86
• Louisvale Wines Dominique 2014 Score 86
• Place in the Sun Place in the Sun Sauvignon Blanc  2016 Score 86
• Welgemeend Estate Winery (Pty) Ltd  Welgemeend Sauvignon blanc 2016 Score 86
• Zorgvliet Wines Silver Myn Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 86

 
Silver Medal Winners

• Allée Bleue Wines (Pty) Ltd  Starlette Rouge 2014 Score 85
• Arabella Wines Arabella Chardonnay 2016 Score 85
• Cloof Wine Estate Cloof The Very Sexy Shiraz 2014 Score 85
• DGB (PTY) LTD Ribshack Red 2015 Score 85
• Flagstone Wines Flagstone Longitude dry red blend  2015 Score 85
• Nederburg 56Hundred Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 85
• Ultra Liquors Top Secret Merlot 2011 Score 85
• Villiera Wines Villiera Chenin Blanc 2015 Score 85
• Arabella Wines Arabella Natural Sweet White 2016 Score 85
• Bonnievale Wines Bonnievale Riggton Red nv Score 85
• Leeuwenkuil Family Vineyards  Leeuwenkuil Chenin 2016 Score 85
• African Pride Wines Footprint 'The Long Walk' Chenin Blanc/Semillon 2015 Score 85
• Alto Hill&Dale Dry Rose Merlot 2016 Score 85
• DGB (PTY) LTD Saint Anna nv Score 85
• DGB (PTY) LTD Saint Raphael nv Score 85
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Haneport 2015 Score 85
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Pandora's Box Bell Pepper Cabernet Sauvignon nv Score 85
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Pandora's Box Gooseberry Sauvignon Blanc nv Score 85
• Nitida Cellars Nitida Roxia Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 85
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Pinot Noir 2015 Score 85
• Riebeek Cellars Merlot 2015 Score 85
• Riebeek Cellars Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 85
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  Welmoed Merlot 2015 Score 85
• Ultra Liquors Secret Cellar Chardonnay Pinot Noir 955 2016 Score 85
• Zandvliet Wine Estate  Zandvliet Estate Shiraz 2014 Score 85
• Bonnievale Wines Bonnievale Dawn nv Score 84
• Bonnievale Wines Bonnievale Dusk nv Score 84
• DGB (PTY) LTD Brampton Pinotage 2015 Score 84
• Flagstone Wines Flagstone Poetry Merlot 2015 Score 84
• La Bri La Bri Cellar Door Red 2012 Score 84
• Stellenbosch Hills Polkadraai Chenin Blanc / Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 84
• Vansha Farming (Pty) Ltd T/A Ridgeback Wines  The Lion Hound Red 2015 Score 84
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Viognier 2016 Score 84
• Arabella Wines Arabella Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 84
• Arabella Wines Arabella Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 84
• De Wet Cellar Chardonnay 2015 Score 84
• Deetlefs Wine Estate`  Ritmes Chenin Blanc Colombar 2016 Score 84
• Deetlefs Wine Estate`  Stonecross Weisser Riesling 2016 Score 84
• DGB (PTY) LTD Franschhoek Cellar Chardonnay 2015 Score 84
• DGB (PTY) LTD Brampton Old Vine Red 2014 Score 84
• DGB (PTY) LTD Brampton Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 84
• DGB (PTY) LTD Franschhoek Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 84
• DGB (PTY) LTD Tall Horse Chardonnay 2016 Score 84
• Stellenbosch Hills Polkadraai Pinot Noir Sparkling Rose 2016 Score 84
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  Welmoed Pinot Grigio 2016 Score 84
• Villiera Wines Villiera Merlot 2015 Score 84
• African Pride Wines  Footprint 'The Long Walk' Chardonnay 2016 Score 84
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Score 84
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Pinotage 2015 Score  84
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Shiraz 2014 Score 84
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 84
• Cloof Wine Estate Cloof Duckitt Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Cabernet Franc 2015 Score 84
• De Krans Garden Route Sauvignon Blanc  2015 Score 84
• Distell Two Oceans Pinot Grigio 2016 Score 84
• Ken Forrester Wines Petit Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 84
• Kleine Zalze Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Merlot 2015 Score 84
• Kleine Zalze Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 84
• Longridge Wynlandgoed/Wine Estate  Konkelberg Sauvignon Blanc 2015 Score 84
• Opstal Wines Sixpence Cabernet Merlot 2015 Score 84
• Stellenbosch Hills Stellenbosch Hills Shiraz 2014 Score 84
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  Arniston Bay The Original Merlot 2015 Score 84
• uniWines Vineyards  Meander Moscato nv Score 84
• uniWines Vineyards  Meander Chenin / Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 84
• Zevenwacht Zevenwacht Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 84
• Mount Vernon Unbelievable Semi-Sweet nv Score 83
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Score 83
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Bella Vino Sassy Sweet Red nv Score 83
• Nicholson Smith Agencies  Bella Vino Seductively Sweet White nv Score 83
• Ultra Liquors Secret Cellar Shiraz 068 2011 Score 83
• Alto Alto Rouge 2014 Score 83
• Bonnievale Wines Bonnievale Sushi nv Score 83
• De Grendel Wines De Grendel Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 83
• Grande Provence Angels Tears Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 83
• Grande Provence Angels Tears Muscat Chenin 2016 Score 83
• Muratie Wine Estate  Muratie Melck's Red 2014 Score 83
• Orange River Cellars  Colombard 2016 Score 83
• Robertson Winery Gewurztraminer 2016 Score 83
• Aan De Doorns Wynkelder R43 Crisp White 2016 Score 83
• De Krans De Krans Free Run Chenin blanc  2016 Score 83
• DGB (PTY) LTD Tall Horse Sauvignon Balnc 2016 Score 83
• Namaqua Wines Spencer Bay Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 Score 83
• Spier Wines Spier Chardonnay-Pinot Noir 2016 Score 83
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Van Loveren Merlot  2015 Score 83
• Brandvlei Cellar BC Wines Shiraz 2015 Score 83
• Doran Vineyards Barrel Fermented Chenin Blanc 2013 Score 83
• Ken Forrester Wines Petit Chenin 2016 Score 83
• Ken Forrester Wines  Petit Semi Sweet 2016 Score 83
• Knorhoek Wines Two Cubs Red Blend 2014 Score 83
• Landskroon Wines Pinotage 2014 Score 83
• Mount Vernon Three Peaks Pinotage 2014 Score 83
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Cape West Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score  83
• Namaqua Wines Namaqua Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 83
• Opstal Wines Fairbridge Cabernet Sauvignon nv Score 83
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Chardonnay 2016 Score 83
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Pinot Grigio 2016 Score 83
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Pinotage 2015 Score 83
• Place in the Sun Place in the Sun Unwooded Chardonnay  2015 Score 83
• Robertson Winery Lightly Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 83
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  Welmoed Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 83
• Ultra Liquors Secret Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 259 2014 Score 83
• uniWines Vineyards   Meander Moscato Pink nv Score 83
• Vansha Farming (Pty) Ltd T/A Ridgeback Wines  Ridgeback Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 83
• Welbedacht Wines Meerkat Pinotage 2015 Score 83
• Zevenwacht Zevenswacht 7even Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 83
• DGB (PTY) LTD Bellingham Homestead Chardonnay 2015 Score 82
• Flagstone Wines Flagstone Free Run Sauvignon Blanc  2015 Score 82
• Mount Vernon Rhino Tears White nv Score 82
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Four Cousins Sauvignon Blanc Brut Sparkling nv Score 82
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Van Loveren Blanc de Noir Red Muscadel  2016 Score 82
• Ashton Winery Chardonnay Unwooded 2016 Score 82
• Robertson Winery Chardonnay 2015 Score 82
• Windfall Wine Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 82
• Arabella Wines Arabella Viognier 2016 Score 82
• Ashton Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2015 Score 82
• Cloof Wine Estate Cloof Duckitt Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Score 82
• De Grendel Wines De Grendel Rose 2016 Score 82
• Koelenhof Wynkelder  Koelenhof Koelenhoffer 2016 Score 82
• KWV Laborie Chardonnay 2015 Score 82
• Landskroon Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Score 82
• Landskroon Wines Paul Hugo Red 2015 Score 82
• Leopard's Leap Wines  Leopard's Leap Chardonnay Pinot Noir 2016 Score 82
• Longridge Wynlandgoed Wine Estate  Konkelberg Rouge 2014 Score 82
• Overhex Wines International  Balance Winemaker's Selection Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 82
• Robertson Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 82
• Vriesenhof/Paradyskloof  Paradyskloof Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 82
• Waverley Hills Waverley Hills Shiraz 2012 Score 82
• African Pride Wines  Footprint 'The Long Walk' Sauvignon blanc 2015 Score 82
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Jan Braai Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 82
• De Krans De Krans Touriga Nacional  2014 Score 82
• Fairbridge Fairbridge Pinotage nv Score 82
• Flagstone Wines Flagstone Treaty Tree Reserve red  2013 Score 82
• Knorhoek Wines Two Cubs Chenin Blanc 2016 Score 82
• Koelenhof Wynkelder  Koelenbosch Shiraz 2013 Score 82
• Orange River Cellars  Red Jerepigo 2015 Score 82
• Stellenbosch Vineyards  Versus Dry Red 2014 Score 82
• uniWines Vineyards Meander Merlot / Shiraz 2015 Score 82
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards  Christina van Loveren Chardonnay  2015 Score 82
• African Pride Wines Lady Anne Barnard Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Score 81
• Ernie Els Wines Ernie Els Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 81
• Nederburg 56Hundred Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Score 81
• Orange River Cellars  Pinotage 2015 Score 81
• Orange River Cellars   Shiraz 2015 Score 81
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Pinotage Rose 2015 Score 81
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar  Alvi's Drift Signature Pinotage Rose 2016 Score 81
• Bonnievale Wines Bonnievale Riggton Dry White nv Score 81
• Flagstone Wines Flagstone Noon Gun 2015 Score 81
• Grande Provence Angels Tears Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Score 81
• Robertson Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 81
• Alto Hill&Dale Pinotage 2015 Score 81
• Arabella Wines Arabella Pink Panacea 2016 Score  81
• Doran Vineyards Doran Vineyards Shiraz 2015 Score 81
• Ken Forrester Wines  Petit Rose 2016 Score 81
• Ken Forrester Wines   Petit Chardonnay 2015 Score 81
• Knorhoek Wines Two Cubs Pinotage 2015 Score 81
• Koelenhof Wynkelder  Koelenbosch Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Score 81
• Koelenhof Wynkelder  Koelenhof Koelnektar 2015 Score 81
• Leopard's Leap Wines  Leopard's Leap Chardonnay 2016 Score 81
• Mulderbosch Vineyards  Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc 'Steen Op Hout' 2016 Score 81
• Ormonde Vineyards  Alexanderfontein Boutonniere White 2016 Score 81
• Ultra Liquors Top Secret Shiraz Cabernet 2014 Score 81


For further information please contact operations@buybetterwine.com

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Robin von Holdt
Robin von Holdt

Winemaker Alecia Boshoff, Riebeek Cellars
Winemaker Alecia Boshoff, Riebeek Cellars

De Wet Cellars winemaker Ters Jonck
De Wet Cellars winemaker Ters Jonck

Landskroon's Paul de Villiers, Cellarmaster
Landskroon's Paul de Villiers, Cellarmaster

Mark Norrish, Ultra Liquors Wine GM
Mark Norrish, Ultra Liquors Wine GM

Greg Castle, Marketing Director of DGB Wines
Greg Castle, Marketing Director of DGB Wines

Overhex MD Gerhard van der Wath
Overhex MD Gerhard van der Wath

Alvi's Drift Dr. Alvi van der Merwe
Alvi's Drift Dr. Alvi van der Merwe

Team Namaqua
Team Namaqua

Bussell Retief, Cellar Master at Van Loveren
Bussell Retief, Cellar Master at Van Loveren

Leopard's Leap CEO Hein Koegelenberg
Leopard's Leap CEO Hein Koegelenberg

Ken Forrester
Ken Forrester

Stellenbosch Vineyards winemaking duo, Abraham de Villiers and Bernard Claassen
Stellenbosch Vineyards winemaking duo, Abraham de Villiers and Bernard Claassen

Flagstone winemaker Gerhard Swart
Flagstone winemaker Gerhard Swart

Stephen de Wet, owner of Arabella
Stephen de Wet, owner of Arabella

Jacques Roux, Robertson Winery winemaker
Jacques Roux, Robertson Winery winemaker

Ginette De Fleuriot judging chairman
Ginette De Fleuriot judging chairman

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