South African wine lovers have reason to raise a glass: Bruce Jack Wines has once again earned international acclaim, making The World's Most Admired Wine Brands 2025 list by the prestigious Drinks International magazine. With only 50 places each year, this globally recognised competition is often described as the "Academy Awards" of the wine world.
This marks the fifth time that Bruce Jack Wines features on this globally respected list since South Africa made its first appearance in 2017. It's a proud moment not only for the Overberg-based winery but also for TOPS at SPAR, the exclusive South African retailer of the Bruce Jack Lifestyle range.
While the Bruce Jack wine ranges include Heritage, Reserve, and Occasions Bag-in-Box, the Bruce Jack Lifestyle is the core focus of the Bruce Jack Winery.
"This is more than just an award – it's a global affirmation," says Stephan van Rooyen, wine expert at TOPS at SPAR. "Our partnership with Bruce Jack is rooted in shared values: authenticity, quality, and community. This recognition reaffirms the strength of that partnership."
The top 50 list is compiled through a rigorous, secretive judging process by a global panel of 100 independent wine buyers, sommeliers, writers, and experts. Each judge selects five brands they admire from around the world, for quality, consistency, authenticity, and brand strength. Making the final cut is a rare and celebrated achievement.
The Bruce Jack Wines business has quickly established itself as one of the most important export brands from South Africa, ranking in the top 10 of South African brands in the UK. This is a rare feat for a family-owned wine business.
Now available in 23 countries, Bruce Jack Wines is making waves globally, with astounding success in emerging markets like Kenya, Brazil, and Sierra Leone.
"Wine is becoming a powerful cultural symbol across Africa," says Bruce Jack, founder of the winery. "As the continent’s middle class grows, so does its appetite for experiences, culture, and quality. Wine speaks to that shift – and Africa is ready to shine."
In South Africa, the Bruce Jack Lifestyle range is available exclusively at TOPS at SPAR stores. The strategic partnership allows both parties to maintain pricing consistency and brand integrity – a rarity in the retail sector.
"We could have gone with multiple retail partners to increase sales," Jack explains. "But we chose SPAR because we believe in building something sustainable – a long-term relationship that protects the brand and gives consumers the best experience."
Van Rooyen adds: "At TOPS at SPAR, our focus isn’t just on shelf space. It's on story, values, and vision. Bruce Jack Wines brings all of that, and more. We're proud to bring a world-class wine to South African consumers at accessible price points."
In an industry filled with choice, Bruce Jack’s recognition – and its exclusive partnership with TOPS at SPAR – sets a new benchmark for what South African wine brands can achieve.