Reyneke is deeply honoured to announce that we have been named the winner of the Gyllene Glaset (The Golden Glass) 2025 award by Sweden's leading publications, Allt om Mat and Allt om Vin. This distinguished international recognition celebrates a global wine producer who demonstrates excellence in quality, origin, and sustainable work. For us, this distinction validates over two decades of commitment to changing the perception of what sustainable viticulture can achieve.
The core philosophy guiding Reyneke has always been one of collaboration and humility: we believe that success comes from surrounding yourself with expertise. Our journey, pioneered by Johan Reyneke, has been one of continuous learning, seeking out the best minds in winemaking and, critically, listening to the oldest expert of all: nature itself.
Commitment to life: The award justification
The justification for the Gyllene Glaset 2025 award perfectly encapsulates our mission:
"For their pioneering efforts with a sustainable winemaking philosophy that puts people and nature first.
For a portfolio of consistently high quality and a clear sense of origin, from entry-level to top wines."
As South Africa's first Demeter-certified biodynamic vineyard in the Polkadraai Hills, we have worked diligently to become an international role model for regenerative viticulture. Our focus is squarely on building soil health, biological diversity, and nurturing natural ecosystems.
Sustainability: Holistic and human-centred
Johan Reyneke’s initial background was in philosophy, which laid the foundation for our belief that nature's balance must be restored and respected. As Johan often reflects, “We have come a long way, we are almost back where we started.” This commitment is holistic.
The same philosophy of working with nature has driven the creation of the Cornerstone Project. This significant social initiative offers our employees long-term support for retirement, housing, and education. Funded in part through the sale of our Cornerstone wine, the project underscores our view that true sustainability means ensuring both people and nature can grow together.
Expanding presence in the Swedish market
The timing of this award coincides with a major expansion in the Swedish market through the state-run Systembolaget during 2025. Key wines launched include the Reyneke Organic Chenin Blanc (March) which was also named the Organic Wine of the Year at the awards ceremony, followed by, Reyneke Reserve White (August), and Reyneke Organic Red (September).
Additionally, five new Estate wines were introduced into the ordering assortment during the autumn, broadening the opportunity for Swedish consumers to discover our terroir-focused portfolio.
This achievement is a shared success, honouring our entire team, our commitment to regenerative farming, and the continuous effort to put people and nature first.
Photos: All photos taken by Adrianna Giaviano