The prestigious Blaauwklippen Blending Competition, now in its 42 nd year, once again celebrated the timeless art of wine blending. From a remarkable 65 entries received from wine clubs across South Africa, it was the Lydenburg Wyngilde of Mpumalanga who claimed first place with their masterful Bordeaux-style blend.
Since its inception, the Blaauwklippen Blending Competition has been a stage for passionate wine enthusiasts to step into the role of winemaker, crafting blends that embody both creativity and technical precision. This year’s challenge invited entrants to conceptualize a Classic Cape Bordeaux blend style from the stellar 2024 Stellenbosch vintage.
Participants were provided with four exceptional components, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, each required to be included in the final composition. The task: to create a wine that would capture the vintage’s excellence while promising longevity and elegance.
The winning blend from Lydenburg Wyngilde is a refined Right Bank Bordeaux expression comprising:
- 48% Merlot
- 26% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 19% Cabernet Franc
- 7% Petit Verdot
The result is a wine of striking character: dark cassis and plush plum aromas layered with cigar box nuances and chocolate spice. The palate unfolds with supple texture,a creamy mid-palate, and a finely structured, lingering finish. Crafted for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring, it promises to evolve gracefully over the next 15 - 20 years.
The esteemed judging panel was chaired by Blaauwklippen winemaker Narina Cloete, joined by respected industry figures Clive Torr, Guy MacDonald, Marius Lategan, and Alastair Rimmer.
The winning blend will be available for purchase from the Blaauwklippen Tasting House as well as online at www.blaauwklippen.com.