With 31 May being the closing date for entries in the Pinotage Association’s 2017 Absa Top 10 competition, the organisers are encouraging the submission of not only South Africa’s finest current and imminent releases but also those that have stood the test of time. The new Museum Class is for Pinotage wines that are at least 10 years old and of which the producers still have at least 60 bottles (45 litres) in stock.
The Absa Top 10 represents one of the longest-running corporate wine sponsorships in the country, with Absa Bank’s backing of the Pinotage Association established more than two decades ago. In the latest development of this respected competition promoting the most successful wine grape variety to have originated in South Africa, the industry is out to stress how top Pinotage is fulfilling its promise of great maturation potential.
“Many of the older Pinotages have developed so beautifully,” says Beyers Truter, founder and chairman of the Pinotage Association. “It is fitting that more be done to showcase these incredibly crafted vintage wines. Those committed Pinotage producers should be awarded and celebrated more.”
Particularly during the past 10 years or so, this uniquely South African varietal has proven its diversity in styles that have included wines suitable for enjoyment in their youth and/or which benefit from laying down in ideal cellar conditions. Pinotage sales have climbed by more than 70% over the past five years and Doug Walker, Managing Executive Absa Western Cape, says the bank regards it as an honour to have been involved with Pinotage producers and their quest for wine masterpieces. Pinotage is such an important part of the industry, he adds, and sponsorships such as Absa’s play a significant role in the sustainable business and economic future for many South Africans.
Also excited about the new dimension of the Absa Top 10 competition is Johan Schwartz, marketing manager of the Pinotage Association. “It is essential to build on the successes of the past, but it’s also important to add and expand initiatives to maintain and enhance the momentum of the brand. Around the globe, interest in Pinotage has grown tremendously in recent years.”
The 2017 winners of the Absa Top 10 Pinotage competition and of the new Museum Class will be announced at an award ceremony on the 3rd of August.
For more information and entry requirements, contact the Pinotage Association:
Website: www.pinotage.co.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PinotageWine
Twitter: @PinotageSA
Email: marketing@pinotage.co.za