We are delighted to present the fourth set of Ultra Value Wine Challenge results. This is the only industry wine competition that assists consumers find the very best wine buys for under R100 per bottle. The Challenge continues to attract strong support, both existing and new, from quality producers and vineyards who have built a reputation for, and who feature, great-value wines.
Robin von Holdt reviews the 2018/19 Challenge:
General
‘Wine lovers throughout South Africa are in for a treat! The compelling fact is that this competition produces a set of practical results: They mean a huge amount to real people; wine lovers not keen to splurge big money on their daily enjoyment. The brilliant wines identified below taste great and they are remarkably affordable! They offer delicious, balanced flavours with lovely fruit and body.
Most importantly, they cost less than R100 per bottle!
The industry enthusiasm and support for this main-stream and compelling price category competition is both terrifically exciting and hugely pleasing. Wine drinkers remain loyal and they are dead-keen to maintain their lifestyles despite tough economic times. So price is key, and the Ultra Value Challenge supports this fully and practically.
The value sector remains a critical arena in which to offer great quality locally. Wonderfully enjoyable, value-for-money wines, see both vineyards and consumers in a win-win result!
Our thanks go to all supporters and our congratulations of course go to all of the winners.’
Quality
‘It has to be said that judges were really positive about the wine quality in 2018. The wines felt lighter on their feet and in better balance than in prior years. The use of oak was more subtle and there was demonstrably less overt extraction.
Vintages 2017 and 2018 yielded delicious wines with fine concentration and very good typicity. There was a sense of better viticultural practices taking place and perhaps less interventions in the cellars. It was easier to recognise a fine wine and it was less work to do so. It is the first time that so many wines at this price point have shown the class the judges generally experienced. This a substantive and significant statement to make about our wine industry…at its lowest price points!
Judging
‘Challenge chairs Ginette De Fleuriot CWM and Richard Kershaw MW had a very credible team of expert judges. A significant portion of wines gained awards simply because the quality was definitively higher than in prior years. Judging panels were tough, but fair. The pleasing set of results was not at all due to less rigour being applied by judging panels. A number of wines 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 block of wines fall aside. Victories are as deservedly sweet as ever for those wines that cracked an award, as confirmed by the independent review.’
Judge Chair Ginette de Fleuriot: Sauvignon blanc: ‘This flight showed the commitment of winemakers to making accessible and affordable Sauvignon Blanc's. There were very few wines which were pyrazine-dominated so the overly green (bell pepper) flavours were few and far between confirming that producers are implementing more attentive vineyard management to resolve this. It was an enjoyable flight but it was noted that regionality and terroir-expression have become more difficult to detect as winemakers source in grapes and also sometimes collaboration work in the winery camouflages the typicity. A few stars in the line-up offered pleasing palate weight, breadth and depth of flavour.’
Chenin blanc: ‘This category always over-delivers in the below R100 price range. The grape offers a lot of punch at relatively low price points: Beguiling floral and fruity aromas and full-fruited flavour with the best of them exhibiting minerality and complexity on mid palate and length. The line-up included wines which are quite dry to off-dry and some on the sweet side too. Thus a category which altogether offers a lot, for a host of wine lovers wishing for a bit more weight and flavour in a glass of white.’
Statistics
‘In line with international competitions and to keep an eye on the reputation and prestige of winning an award, yet taking cognisance of the great vintages and elevated wine making practices showcased in this year’s awards, around 80% of entered wines gained an award this year. An exceptional set off results for exceptional wines! Way less than 10% of wines gained Double Gold Medal awards however. Around 25% gained Gold Medal awards. Silver Medal awards were again hugely successful although strictly judged, with well less than 50% of wines qualifying. Awards were difficult to achieve and they were hard-earned and well-earned as ever, despite the truly excellent quality of entered wines.’
Vintages
Wines from vintages 2011 through to 2018 were entered. The majority were from 2016/17/18 years, much as would be expected. 2018 naturally offered a preponderance of young white wines.
With regards to results by vintage, 2015 yielded some high quality red wines earning a total of 12 gongs. 2016, generally a more difficult vintage, enjoyed 37 winning red wines and only 2 white wine winners. 2017 on the other hand earned 92 red wins, with a tally of only 22 white winning wines. However for 2018, there were 117 white wine wins, as compared to a total number of 10 awarded red wines.
Judge Spencer Fondaumiere on Chardonnay: ‘The quality of the Chardonnays was of a generally very good standard. The 2017’s generally showed better than the 2016’s and 2018’s which was consistent with the vintages. As expected with the category oak was present in most examples. However very pleasingly the wood use was very restrained, and the fruit was the hero in most examples. The panel was delighted to have found several excellent well-made wines in what is generally considered a premium category.’
Cultivars & blends results review
What quickly became clear is that single cultivars, in the main, stole the show this year. Of course there were some notable blends too. But, for example, Pinotage showed better than Cape Blends, and Cabernet and indeed Merlot showed better than Bordeaux Blends.
‘Sauvignon Blanc achieved a total of 53 awards, up on last year, but only 2 of these were for Double Golds. Chenin gained 40 awards, also up on last year’s 35 awards, with 3 Double Golds. Then Chardonnay cracked 18 nods, down on last year, with 2 Double Gold wins. Other white cultivars gained 8 awards with a Beukett and a Colombard gaining Double Gold wins. Other white blends gained a total of only 15 wins, yet achieved 4 Double Gold victories.
As for the red wines, Cabernet led the charge totalling 29 wins overall and sweeping the top board with 6 Double Gold awards. Pinotage followed with 27 awards 3 of which were for Double Gold. Then Shiraz landed 26 victories and a single Double Gold. Merlot was a thrilling flight gaining a credible 23 wins 3 of which were for Double Gold victories. As for blends, Other Blends and Bordeaux Blends tied with 15 victories each. Then Cape Blends topped out with 9 wins and a single Double Gold. Rhone Blends gained 5 wins and of these 2 were for Double Golds.
Rosé aced the balance with a splendid showing, a tally of 24 gongs of which two were for Double Gold nods. Semi Sweet gained 12 wines; Fortified 8. Natural sweet cracked 7 wins of which 3 were for Double Gold. MCC achieved 6 wins and finally the Port tally was 4 in all.’
Gareth Robertson
Cabernet Sauvignon: ‘This category was definitely an improvement from previous years. The wines showed good varietal character, with the majority of the wines being well balanced with good tannin management, making them very accessible and great value for under R100. I firmly believe the winemakers are paying more attention to making the wines more elegant and accessible for the consumers to enjoy.’
Judges Chair Richard Kershaw MW
Shiraz: ‘This tends to be a strong flight priced under R100. The best examples delivered a purity of fruit, decent fruit intensity and had supple yet fleshy tannins. The top wines had a clean and fresh integrated acidity and some had a touch of oak that added interest and complexity but didn’t overwhelm the wine. These wines are meant to be drunk over 1-3 years so the wines need to be approachable soon after release. Despite this, a number of wines didn’t make it through. These included wines displaying reductive characters; firm unyielding tannins or over-worked musts leading to over-extraction; those where oak elements dominated and those that lacked freshness either through insufficient sulphur or high levels of oxygen at bottling.’
Wayve Kolevsohn
Pinotage: ‘This was really a super category packed full of fantastic value wines. The judges noted the clear and intentional elements of freshness, purity and drinkability as common themes within the category of Pinotage this year, which we felt is so important not only for the grape at this price point, but for the stylistic evolution of Pinotage as a whole.’
Jolette Steyn
Merlot: ‘This was a wonderfully strong category this year! We were delighted with the purity of fruit – lots of vibrant black cherry, raspberry - on the Merlot wines. The wines were neither overripe nor jammy exuding freshness, restraint and some savoury notes. The oak on most occasions was also well-integrated to allow the inherent characteristics of the grapes to shine through. It is clear why Merlot is still a clear favourite amongst local consumers.’
The top 14 highest-scoring wines
1. Stettyn Cellar - Stettyn Stone White 2018. 98/100
2. Fairview - Fairview La Capra Merlot 2017. 98/100
3. Ken Forrester Wines - Petit Cabernet Sauvignon 2017. 96/100
4. Orange River Cellars - Colombard 2018. 96/100
5. Nicholson Smith Agencies - Pandoras Box Bell Pepper Cab Sav NV. 96/100
6. Robertson Winery - Beaukett 2018. 95/100
7. Rhebokskloof Wine Estate - Hillside White 2018. 95/100
8. Louisvale Wines - Stone Road Merlot 2016. 95/100
9. Allée Bleue Wines - Starlette Shiraz Rosé 2018. 94/100
10. Opstal Wines Sixpence Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2018. 93/100
11. Darling Cellars - Black Granite Shiraz 2017. 93/100
12. Ridgeback Wines - Lion Hound Cabernet Sauvignon 2017. 93/100
13. Alvi's Drift Private Cellar - Alvi's Drift Signature Pinotage Rosé 2018. 93/100
14. Namaqua Wines - Namaqua Cape Vintage 2017. 93/100
Comments from the Top 5 winners follow:
Charles Back, Fairview La Capra Merlot 2017. 98/100
‘The La Capra Range has surpassed my wildest expectations. Our intention was to provide wine lovers with exceptional value at exceptional prices. This can best be achieved if you control the process from vineyard to bottle. The La Capra Chenin Blanc all the way to La Capra Merlot has garnered many accolades and I am delighted with a 98 score for the Merlot which makes it the top red wine for the competition.’
JM Crafford, Stettyn Stone White Chenin/Sauvignon 2017. 98/100
‘This beautiful wine shows the honesty of the Stettyn appellation. This terroir driven wine together with the passion driven winemaking team shapes this easy drinking, affordable wine with attitude. It gives us great joy to share this with our fellow wine consumer.’
Ken Forrester, Petit Cabernet 2017. 96/100.
‘The entire Petit range is what I call my 100 point range (apologies to Tim Atkin!!). These wines are crafted to be soft, fruit driven, balanced and delicious. When you take a sip and say “nice” that is surely 100 pts. When delivery meets expectation it’s more than a Petit coincidence!! Cheers enjoy.’
Jason Neal, Pandora’s Box Bell Pepper Cabernet Sauvignon. 96/100
‘A fantastic surprise. Even though we strive to produce the best at the best price it is always wonderful to get such a great score of 96 out of 100 for our Bell pepper Cabernet Sauvignon. A great thanks to our wine making team.’
Rianco van Rooyan, ORC Colombard 2018. 96/100.
‘The Orange River Cellars Colombard is consistently one of the flag bearers for the winery. Year after year it impresses with its purity of fruit and its following is growing by the day! An exceptional wine from the Keimoes area grown on an island in the Orange River. The 2018 delivers an abundance of guava and passion fruit, and this from a vineyard where the average yield is 40 tons per hectare!’
Multiple winners include:
• DGB - 28 wins
• Alvi's Drift Private Cellar - 15 wins
• De Wet Cellar - 13 wins
• Van Loveren Family Vineyards - 12 wins
• Namaqua Wines - 11 wins
• Ultra Liquors - 11 wins
• Orange River Cellars - 10 wins
• Overhex Wines International - 10 wins
• Robertson Winery - 10 wins
• Bonnievale Wines - 9 wins
• Koelenhof Wynkelder - 9 wins
• Stettyn Cellar - 9 wins
• Swartland Winery - 9 wins
• Fairview - 8 wins
• Nicholson Smith Agencies - 8 wins
• Anthonij Rupert Wyne - 7 wins
• Ken Forrester Wines - 7 wins
Result summaries:
Double Gold Medals 38
Gold Medal Winners 109
Silver Medal Winners 203
Some industry comments from awarded vineyards follow:
Stettyn Family Vineyards
JM Crafford, Winemaker, Stettyn: Here at Stettyn Family Vineyards we firmly believe that wine is produced in the vineyards. All our wines are terroir driven and with the passion of the winemaking team we seek to produce great, affordable wines for every day enjoyment and farming sustainably...Stettyn’ s ability.
Ultra Liquors
Mark Norrish, Wine GM Ultra Liquors: "In the current economic situation that SA is experiencing, the key consumer phrase is “Value for money”, or, “bang for bucks”. The Ultra Value Challenge is the only wine competition in SA that really does highlight value to embattled consumers, and is a really important vehicle on our current “bumpy road”. Ultra Liquors is thrilled with 11 awards received this year, as it really does validate our claim of being , “a great value destination”, and we commit to continue on this path in the future.”
Orange River Cellars
Rianco van Rooyen, Senior Winemaker: “Orange River Cellars strives to be the ‘go to’ cellars when a consumer wants exceptional quality wine at an affordable price. With our 3 Double Gold - and 4 Gold medals we are definitely living up to our motto of ‘Your moment, our wine’. Achieving 10 medals in total across all wine styles is truly satisfying and is an indication of the quality grapes grown by our producers.”
Overhex Wines International
Gerhard van der Wath, Owner/ Chairman of Overhex Wines International: “We are delighted to have been awarded with no less than 10 accolades. It is once again an indicator of our success as a premium wine company that focuses on quality across all price points.”
Alvi's Drift
Dr Alvi Van der Merwe: "After winning 7 of the top 100 wines in SA earlier this year, the 15 awards we have won at this competition, bears tribute to the passion and dedication to our wonderful team at Alvi’s Drift. We are humbled and thankful to be recognised for our efforts”
De Wet Cellars
Ters Jonk, Manager & Winemaker: “To receive thirteen awards from thirteen entries punts a stamp on what the team at De Wet Cellar aims to achieve: Presenting a quality driven wine portfolio to our clients.”
Nicholson Smith Agencies
Jason Neal, Owner: "It is a great honour to be named amongst the winners. In tough economic times as we are now in, and the consumer being so price conscious a truer barometer of one’s value cannot be found in any other show better than in the Ultra Value Wine Show. At Nicholson Smith Agencies we strive to give the consumer the best possible product available at the best price. By consistently winning at the Ultra Value Awards we have been given an enhanced reputation of providing great value. A great thanks to the show and the expert tasting panel.”
Namaqua Wines
Len Knoetze, Production Manager: “At Namaqua Wines we pride ourselves in delivering excellent quality at the best possible prices to our customers.
Achieving 2 Double Gold and 6 Gold awards across our different ranges shows our winemaker’s dedication to every single bunch of grapes that enters the cellar.
From our state of the art cellar we produce something for every taste, whether it’s boxed or bottled.”
Swartland Winery
Christo Koch, Winemaker: “We are immensely proud of this achievement – receiving one Double Gold, three gold and five silver means we’re undoubtedly on the right track in our pursuit of versatility, consistency and quality underpinned by great value.”
Van Loveren
Johline Barnardt, Export Manager VP Sales – USA, Canada, South America: “We are thrilled with this fantastic line up of awards! Our goal is to strike the perfect balance between wines that overdeliver on quality and are sold at consumer-friendly prices. It is encouraging to receive this recognition across so many of our brands.”
Robertson Winery
Ankia Nieman, Head of marketing Robertson Winery: We are extremely proud of our winemaking team for receiving no less than 10 awards, 3 Gold awards, at the Ultra Value Awards. These awards really emphasise their dedication and commitment to make the best possible wines across all varieties and styles. It is a real “More (the best) to Share” culture.
The full list of winning wines by award, in the order of their final scores, follow:
Double Gold Medal Winners
Stettyn Cellar - Stettyn Stone White 2018 98/100
Fairview - Fairview La Capra Merlot 2017 98/100
Ken Forrester Wines - Petit Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 96/100
Orange River Cellars - Colombard 2018 96/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies - Pandoras Box Bell Pepper Cab Sav NV 96/100
Robertson Winery - Beaukett 2018 95/100
Rhebokskloof Wine Estate - Hillside White 2018 95/100
Louisvale Wines - Stone Road Merlot 2016 95/100
Allée Bleue Wines - Starlette Shiraz Rosé 2018 94/100
Opstal Wines Sixpence Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2018 93/100
Darling Cellars - Black Granite Shiraz 2017 93/100
Ridgeback Wines - Lion Hound Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 93/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar - Alvi's Drift Signature Pinotage Rosé 2018 93/100
Namaqua Wines - Namaqua Cape Vintage 2017 93/100
Brandvlei Cellar - BC Wines Sauvignon Blanc 2018 92/100
Riebeek Cellars - Riebeek Cellars Chenin Blanc 2018 92/100
De Wet Cellar- Single Vineyard Chenin Blanc 2017 92/100
Swartland Winery - Winemakers Collection Pinotage 2017 92/100
Allée Bleue Wines - Starlette Rouge 2017 92/100
Flagstone Wines - Flagstone Poetry Chardonnay 2018 92/100
McGregor Winery - McGregor Chenin Blanc 2018 91/100
Allée Bleue Wines - Starlette Blanc 2018 91/100
Bonnievale Wines - River Collection Chardonnay 2018 91/100
Louisvale Wines - Stone Road Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 91/100
Kleine Zalze - Cellar Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 91/100
Stettyn Cellar - Stettyn Stone Red 2017 91/100
Namaqua Wines - Cape West Pinotage Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 91/100
Boschendal - Larone Shiraz Mourvedre 2016 91/100
Louisvale Wines - Stone Road Merlot 2017 91/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards - Four Cousins Natural Sweet White NV 91/100
Ultra Liquors - SECRET CELLAR SAUVIGNON BLANC 600 2018 91/100
Orange River Cellars - White Muscadel 2017 91/100
Rooiberg Wynmakery Rooiberg Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 91/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies BELLA VINO SEDUCTIVELY SWEET WHITE NV 90/100
Orange River Cellars - Ruby Cabernet 2016 90/100
Ultra Liquors - SECRET CELLAR MMC 702 2016 90/100
Du Toitskloof Wines - Tunnel series Sweet Rosé NV 90/100
Zevenwacht - 7even Rood 2016 90/100
Gold Medal Winners
Douglas Green Chardonnay 2017 89/100
Tall Horse Chardonnay 2018 89/100
Namaqua Wines Cape West Cabernet Sauvignon Pinotage 2017 89/100
Ultra Liquors SECRET CELLAR HIGH 5 NV 89/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Rondebosch Chenin Blanc 2018 89/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Tangled Tree Rose Petal Moscato Rose 2018 89/100
Namaqua Wines Namaqua Red Muscadel 2017 89/100
Robertson Winery ROBERTSON WINERY SHIRAZ 2017 89/100
Zevenwacht 7even Rosé 2018 89/100
Franschhoek Cellar The Churchyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 89/100
Namaqua Wines Namaqua Shiraz 2016 89/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Shiraz 2017 89/100
Orange River Cellars Cape Ruby 2017 89/100
Stettyn Cellar Stettyn Family Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2018 89/100
Bon Courage Wine Estate Bon Courage Estate Blend Cab Sauvignon Shiraz 2016 89/100
Tierhoek Grenache Syrah Mourvedre 2017 89/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Four Cousins Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 89/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenhof Koelnektar 2018 89/100
Opstal Wines Sixpence Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2017 89/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Chardonnay 2018 89/100
Bon Courage Wine Estate Bon Courage Andre's Fame Colombard 2018 89/100
Ridgeback Wines Lion Hound Shiraz 2017 89/100
Stellenbosch Hills Shiraz 2016 88/100
Ultra Liquors Top Secret Pinot Noir 2017 88/100
Namaqua Wines Namaqua White Muscadel 2017 88/100
De Wet Cellar Red Muscadel 2016 88/100
uniWines Vineyards Meander Pinotage 2017 88/100
Landskroon Wines Landskroon Pinotage 2016 88/100
Bonnievale Wines River Collection Shiraz 2017 88/100
Stellar Winery Woolworths Organic No Added Sulphur Pinotage 2018 88/100
Fairview Fariview La Capra Pinotage 2017 88/100
Riebeek Cellars Pieter Cruythoff Brut NV 88/100
Stettyn Cellar Stettyn Family Vineyards Chenin Blanc 2018 87/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Pinotage 2017 87/100
Anthonij Rupert Wyne Anthonij Rupert Protea Chardonnay 2018 87/100
Bon Courage Wine Estate Bon Courage Estate The Pepper Tree Shiraz 2017 87/100
McGregor Winery McGregor Colombard 2018 87/100
Backsberg Estate Cellars Backsberg Merlot 2017 87/100
Bon Courage Wine Estate Bon Courage The Mulberry Bush Merlot 2018 87/100
Stettyn Cellar Stettyn Pinotage 2015 87/100
Cape Point Vineyards Splattered Toad Shiraz 2017 87/100
Ormonde Vineyards Alexanderfontein Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 87/100
Ormonde Vineyards Alexandefontein Boutonniere Red Blend 2015 87/100
Du Toitskloof Wines Tunnel Series Robust Red NV 87/100
Ultra Liquors SECRET CELLAR PINOTAGE 211 2016 87/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Tangled Tree Butterscotch Chardonnay 2018 87/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies Pandoras Lock Box 1855 Merlot/Cab Sav NV 87/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Rondebosch Chardonnay 2018 87/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Four Cousins Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2018 86/100
Orange River Cellars Pinotage 2017 86/100
Boland Cellar Sixty-40 Chenin Blanc Sauvignon Blanc 2018 86/100
Anthonij Rupert Wyne Anthonij Rupert Protea Chenin Blanc 2018 86/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift 221 Special Cuvee 2017 86/100
Namaqua Wines Namaqua Merlot 2017 86/100
Ultra Liquors SECRET CELLAR RED BLEND 907 2013 86/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Tangled Tree Tropical Sauvignon Blanc 2018 86/100
Stellenbosch Hills Stellenbosch Hills Chenin Blanc 2018 86/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Rondebosch Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2017 86/100
Ken Forrester Wines Petit Pinotage 2017 86/100
Gravel Junction Unbelievable Dry White NV 86/100
Tall Horse Chenin Blanc 2018 86/100
Anthonij Rupert Wyne Anthonij Rupert Protea Shiraz 2017 86/100
Anthonij Rupert Wyne Anthonij Rupert Protea Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 86/100
Stellenbosch Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2018 86/100
Robertson Winery GEWURZTRAMINER NATURAL SWEET WHITE 2018 86/100
Ultra Liquors TOP SECRET MERLOT 2014 86/100
Zorgvliet Wines Silver Myn Argentum 2017 86/100
Glen Carlou Vineyards Glen Carlou Merlot 2017 86/100
Boland Cellar Five Climates Chenin Blanc Unwooded 2018 86/100
Brandvlei Cellar BC Wines Chenin Blanc 2018 86/100
Du Toitskloof Wines Tunnel Series Crisp White NV 86/100
uniWines Vineyards Meander Chenin Blanc 2018 86/100
Orange River Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2018 86/100
Fairview Goats do Roam Red 2017 86/100
Bonnievale Wines River Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2018 86/100
Flagstone Wines Flagstone Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 86/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies BELLA VINO PERKY PINK NV 85/100
Darling Cellars Bush Vine Sauvignon Blanc 2018 85/100
Swartland Winery Winemakers Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2018 85/100
Ultra Liquors SECRET CELLAR ROSÉ 18 2018 85/100
Silkbush Mountain Vineyards Silkbush Summer White 2018 85/100
Overhex Wines International Mensa Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 85/100
Robertson Winery CHAPEL CHENIN BLANC/COLOMBARD 2018 85/100
Gravel Junction Unbelievable Semi Sweet NV 85/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies PANDORA'S BOX HONEYSUCKLE SWEET RED NV 85/100
Backsberg Estate Cellars Backsberg Chenin Blanc 2018 85/100
Stettyn Cellar Stettyn Cellar Chardonnay & Pinot Noir 2018 85/100
Douglas Green Sauvignon Blanc 2018 85/100
Nederburg56 HUNDRED CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017 85/100
Cloof Wine Estate Bush Vines Merlot 2017 85/100
Swartland Winery Winemakers Collection Chenin Blanc 2018 85/100
Swartland Winery Winemakers Collection Dry Red NV 85/100
Brandvlei Cellar BC Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 85/100
Roodezandt Winery Roodezandt Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 85/100
Namaqua Wines Cape West Shiraz Pinotage 2017 85/100
Croydon Wine C0 Croydon Title Deed Rosé 2018 85/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Van Loveren Blanc de Blanc 2018 85/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 85/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Classic Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2018 85/100
Brampton Unoaked Chardonnay 2017 85/100
Cavalli Wine White Knight 2017 85/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Van Loveren Blanc de Noir Red Muscadel 2018 85/100
Stellar Winery Woolworths Organic No Sulphur Added Shiraz 2018 85/100
Rooiberg Wynmakery Rooiberg Range Sauvignon Blanc 2018 85/100
De Wet Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 2018 85/100
Orange River Cellars Chenin Blanc 2018 85/100
Flagstone Wines Flagstone Longitude dry red blend 2016 85/100
Brampton Old Vine Red 2015 85/100
Bellingham Homestead Pinotage 2017 85/100
Silver Medal Winners
Du Toitskloof Wines Tunnel Series Sweet Red NV 84/100
Gravel Junction Unbelievable Dry Red NV 84/100
Opstal Wines Fairbridge Chenin Blanc 2018 84/100
Louisvale Wines Stone Road Sauvignon Blanc 2018 84/100
Flagstone Wines Flagstone Poetry Sauvignon Blanc 2017 84/100
Ormonde VineyardsAlexanderfontein Sauvignon Blanc2017 84/100
Stellar Winery Woolworths Organic No Added Sulphur Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 84/100
Silkbush Mountain Vineyards Silkbush Shiraz 2016 84/100
Cape Point Vineyards Cape Town Wine Company Sauvignon Blanc 2017 84/100
Boland Cellar Sixty-40 Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2018 84/100
De Wet Cellar Special late harvest 2016 84/100
De Wet Cellar Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 84/100
Swartland Winery Coutours Collection Chenin Blanc 2018 84/100
Flagstone Wines Flagstone Noon Gun dry white 2017 84/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Chenin Blanc 2018 84/100
Glen Carlou Vineyards Glen Carlou Pinot Noir Rosé 2018 84/100
Roodezandt Winery Roodezandt Chenin Blanc 2018 84/100
Rooiberg Wynmakery Rooiberg Range Pinotage 2017 84/100
McGregor Winery McGregor Chardonnay 2018 84/100
Diemersfontein Sauvignon Blanc 2018 84/100
Glen Carlou Vineyards Glen Carlou Unwooded Chardonnay 2018 84/100
Namaqua Wines Namaqua Hanepoot Jerepigo 2017 83/100
De Wet Cellar Chenin Blanc 2018 83/100
Robertson Winery ROBERTSON WINERY RUBY CABERNET 2017 83/100
Ultra Liquors SECRET CELLAR CHARDONNAY/PINOT NOIR 955 2017 83/100
Robertson Winery CHAPEL CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT 2017 83/100
Niel Joubert Wines Niel Joubert Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Boland Cellar Cappupinoccinotage 2017 83/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Winemaker's Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Ken Forrester Wines Petit Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Winemaker's Selection Pinot Noir 2017 83/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies PANDORA'S BOX LA DOLCA VITA SWEET WHITE NV 83/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies PANDORA'S BOX THE PROFESSORS PINOTAGE NV 83/100
Orange River Cellars Shiraz 2016 83/100
the beachhouse Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
New Cape Wines Eagle's Cliff Shiraz Rosé 2018 83/100
Alkmaar Chardonnay Pinot Noir 2018 83/100
McGregor Winery McGregor Pinotage 2017 83/100
Stettyn Cellar Stettyn Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 83/100
Theuniskraal Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Stellar Winery Woolworths Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Stellenbosch Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 83/100
Fairview Piekenierskloof Grenache 2016 83/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Van Loveren River Red Shiraz Pinotage 2017 83/100
De Wet Cellar Pettilant Fronte NV 83/100
Fairview Goats do Roam White 2017 83/100
Boland Cellar Five Climates Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 83/100
Opstal Wines Fairbridge Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Robertson Winery MERLOT 2017 83/100
Brampton Pinotage 2016 83/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenbosch Sauvignon Blanc 2018 83/100
Anthonij Rupert Wyne Anthonij Rupert Protea Merlot 2017 83/100
De Wet Cellar Cape Blend 2016 83/100
Theuniskraal Cape Riesling 2018 83/100
Riebeek Cellars Chardonay 2017 83/100
Landskroon Wines Landskroon Chenin Blanc Dry 2018 83/100
Orange River Cellars Red Muscadel 2017 83/100
Zonnebloem PINOTAGE 2017 83/100
Swartland Winery Winemakers Collection Blanc De Noir 2018 82/100
Du Toitskloof WinesTunnel Series Sweet White NV 82/100
Ken Forrester Wines Petit Chardonnay 2018 82/100
Doran Vineyards Doran ARYA 2017 82/100
De Krans PREMIUM MOSCATO PERLÉ 2018 82/100
Louisvale Wines LOUISVALE DOMINIQUE 2016 82/100
Nicholson Smith Agencies PANDORA'S BOX PERSIAN COLLECTION SHIRAZ NV 82/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenbosch Chenin Blanc 2018 82/100
Robertson Winery CHENIN BLANC 2018 82/100
Tall Horse Pinotage 2018 82/100
Douglas Green Chenin Blanc 2018 82/100
Anthonij Rupert Wyne Anthonij Rupert Protea Sauvignon Blanc 2018 82/100
McGregor Winery McGregor Sauvignon Blanc 2018 82/100
Swartland Winery Contours Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2018 82/100
Brandvlei Cellar BC Wines Pinotage 2017 82/100
Rooiberg Wynmakery Rooiberg Range Cabernet/Merlot (Roodewyn) 2017 82/100
Anthonij Rupert Wyne Anthonij Rupert Protea Rosé 2018 82/100
Ridgeback Wines Lion Hound White 2018 82/100
uniWines Vineyards Meander Shiraz 2017 82/100
Franschhoek Cellar The Old Museum Merlot 2017 82/100
Riebeek Cellars Cape Ruby NV 82/100
Gravel Junction Unbelievable Natural Sweet Rosé NV 82/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Classic Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2017 82/100
Ormonde Vineyards Alexanderfontein Chenin Blanc 2018 82/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Four Cousins Dry Red NV 82/100
Theuniskraal Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 82/100
Fairview Sauvignon Blanc 2018 82/100
Ultra Liquors SECRET CELLAR MERLOT 990 2017 81/100
Ultra Liquors SECRET CELLAR SM 822 2015 81/100
Opstal Wines Fairbridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 81/100
Durbanville Hills Merlot 2017 81/100
De Wet Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 81/100
Robertson Winery CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017 81/100
Bon Courage Wine Estate The Gooseberry Bush Sauvignon Blanc 2018 81/100
Robertson Winery SAUVIGNON BLANC 2018 81/100
Cavalli Wine Pink Pony 2018 81/100
Rooiberg Wynmakery The Game Reserve Range Pinotage 2015 81/100
Ormonde Vineyards Alexanderfontein Chardonnay 2017 81/100
Stellar Winery Woolworths Organic Chenin Blanc 2018 81/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Viognier 2018 81/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Cape Pride Chenin Chardonnay 2018 81/100
Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Chardonnay 2018 81/100
Landskroon Wines Landskroon Sauvignon Blanc 2018 81/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Cape Pride Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2016 81/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift Signature Merlot 2017 81/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenbosch Merlot 2017 81/100
Klein Roosboom Boutique Wines Marianna Roos Rosé 2018 81/100
Swartland Winery Winemakers Collection Bouquett 2018 81/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Four Cousins Collection Merlot 2017 81/100
Namaqua Wines Namaqua Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 81/100
Namaqua Wines Namaqua Sauvignon Blanc 2018 81/100
Van Loveren Family Vineyards Four Cousins Sweet Rosé NV 81/100
Roodezandt Winery Roodezandt Sauvignon Blanc 2018 81/100
Ridgeback Wines Vansha Red 2016 81/100
Franschhoek Cellar Our Town Hall Chardonnay 2018 81/100
Wildekrans Wine Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2018 81/100
Concha y Toro Casillero del Diablo Reserva Carmenere 2017 81/100
Fairview Spice Route Chenin Blanc 2016 81/100
Backsberg Estate Cellars Backsberg Dry Red NV 81/100
Ken Forrester Wines Petit Rosé 2018 81/100
Diemersfontein Chenin Blanc 2018 81/100
Tall Horse Merlot 2018 80/100
Welbedacht Meerkat Chenin Blanc 2018 80/100
Cloof Wine Estate Duckitt 2018 80/100
Swartland Winery Winemakers Collection Merlot 2017 80/100
Roodezandt Winery Roodezandt Shiraz 2017 80/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Classic Shiraz Rosé 2018 80/100
Tall Horse Sauvignon Blanc 2018 80/100
Bonnievale Wines River Collection Merlot 2017 80/100
Brampton Rosé 2017 80/100
Darling Cellars Chocoholic 2017 80/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Winemaker's Selection Shiraz 2017 80/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Winemaker's Selection Chenin Blanc 2018 80/100
De Wet Cellar Cravate MCC 2011 80/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenbosch Pinotage 2017 80/100
Backsberg Estate Cellars Backsberg Pinotage 2017 80/100
Bonnievale Wines Barrel Select Shiraz 2015 80/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenhof Pinotage Rosé 2018 80/100
New Cape Wines Eagle's Cliff Sauvignon Blanc 2018 80/100
Zevenwacht 7even Sauvignon Blanc 2018 80/100
De Wet Cellar Shiraz 2017 80/100
De Wet Cellar Chardonnay 2017 80/100
uniWines Vineyards Meander Moscato NV 80/100
Bellingham The Old Orchard Chenin Blanc 2017 80/100
Ken Forrester Wines Petit Chenin 2018 80/100
Overhex Wines International Balance Winemaker's Selection Cab Sauvignon 2017 80/100
Alkmaar Viognier 2018 80/100
De Krans DE KRANS BASKET PRESS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017 80/100
Durbanville Hills SAUVIGNON BLANC 2018 80/100
Bonnievale Wines River Collection Chenin Blanc 2018 80/100
Overhex Wines International Mensa Sauvignon Blanc 2018 80/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenbosch Dry Pinotage Rosé 2018 79/100
Stellar Winery Woolworths Organic No Added Sulphur Merlot 2018 79/100
Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2018 79/100
Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Merlot 2017 79/100
Franschhoek Cellar Baker Station Shiraz 2016 79/100
Bonnievale Wines Barrel Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 79/100
De Wet Cellar Hanepoot 2017 79/100
Flagstone Wines Flagstone Poetry Cinsault Rosé 2018 79/100
Diemersfontein Rosé 2018 79/100
Boschendal Rose Garden Rosé 2017 79/100
Zorgvliet Wines Silver Myn Sauvignon Blanc 2018 79/100
Windfall Wine Windfall Chenin Blanc 2018 79/100
Stettyn Cellar Stettyn Shiraz 2016 79/100
Orange River Cellars Red Jerepiko 2017 79/100
Silkbush Mountain Vineyards Silkbush Pinotage 2017 79/100
Silkbush Mountain Vineyards Silkbush Sauvignon Blanc 2018 79/100
Alvi's Drift Private Cellar Alvi's Drift 221 Chenin Blanc 2018 79/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenbosch Shiraz 2017 79/100
Koelenhof Wynkelder Koelenhof Koelenhoffer 2018 79/100
Riebeek Cellars Pinotage 2016 79/100
uniWines Vineyards Meander Moscato Pink NV 79/100
Bonnievale Wines River Collection Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2017 79/100
Backsberg Estate Cellars Backsberg Sauvignon Blanc 2018 79/100
De Krans DE KRANS PREMIUM CAPE RUBY NV 79/100
Brampton Sauvignon Blanc 2018 78/100
Louisvale Wines STONE ROAD SHIRAZ 2016 78/100
Silkbush Mountain Vineyards Silkbush Hillside Red 2017 78/100
Brampton Shiraz 2016 78/100
Landskroon Wines Landskroon Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 78/100
Doran Vineyards Doran Chenin Blanc 2015 78/100
Fairview Rose Quartz 2018 78/100
Ken Forrester Wines Petit Natural Sweet NV 78/100
Rhebokskloof Wine Estate Bosstok Chenin Blanc 2018 78/100
Rhebokskloof Wine Estate Cabernet Shiraz 2016 78/100
Bonnievale WinesRiver Collection Cinsault Rosé 2018 78/100
Zandvliet Wine Estate My Best Friend Cape White 2018 78/100
Welbedacht Meerkat Sauvignon Blanc 2017 78/100
Kleine Zalze Cellar Selection Pinotage 2017 78/100
Cavalli Wine Black Beauty 2016 78/100
Franschhoek Cellar Statue de Femme Sauvignon Blanc 2018 77/100
Boschendal Lanoy 2017 77/100
Bellingham Homestead Sauvignon Blanc 2018 77/100
Wildekrans Wine Estate Cabernet Franc Merlot 2014 77/100
Bellingham Homestead Shiraz 2017 77/100
Tierhoek Sauvignon Blanc 2017 77/100
Stettyn Cellar The Guardian 2015 77/100
Franschhoek Cellar La Cotte Mill Chenin Blanc 2018 77/100
Welbedacht Meerkat Pinotage 2015 77/100
Ridgeback Wines Vansha White 2018 77/100
Nederburg WINEMASTERS MERLOT 2017 77/100
De Krans PINOTAGE Rosé 2018 77/100
La Vierge Wines Original Sin 2017 77/100
Wildekrans Wine Estate Cabernet Franc Merlot 2016 77/100
MCC Labels South Africa’s Managing Director, Rian Moore, commented: ‘Value describes the intersection between quality and price – and remains a crucial aspect of wine marketing. We’re pleased to underscore our commitment to the wine industry by supporting this value-driven competition.’
For further information please contact accounts@buybetterwine.com.