The recognition further cements the estate’s growing reputation for producing exceptional South African Chenin Blanc.
The annual Chenin Blanc Report, convened by Winemag.co.za, is regarded as one of the country’s leading benchmarks for fine wine excellence, with wines judged blind by an expert panel using the internationally recognised 100-point scale. Among 50 entries of single-variety Chenin Blanc, Welbedacht Skoolblok Steen 2025 stood proudly among South Africa’s best, earning its place in the coveted Top 10 list.
Produced from old-vine Chenin Blanc vineyards in the Groenberg region, the Skoolblok Steen 2025 showcases the elegance, freshness and complexity that have become hallmarks of the Welbedacht style.
Highlighting Welbedacht’s talented winemaker, Christiaan Nigrini’s contribution, as one of South Africa’s exciting new-generation winemakers, he was also included in the exclusive top ten at the 2026 iTOO Next Generation Awards.
“We congratulate Christiaan on a magnificent achievement in encapsulating the true essence of these special vines in a bottle. What makes this wine even more special is the fact that it comes from a single block of bush vine Steen. When these vineyards were planted in 1979, very few people were speaking about Chenin Blanc in the way they are today.
Certified as a Wine of Origin Groenberg, this wine originates from one of South Africa’s most unique decomposed granite terroirs. The Skoolblok Steen is therefore completely cultivar honest – a pure expression of both the vineyard and its origin – produced exclusively from the block surrounding the old school.”
“This recognition is an incredible honour for our entire team,” said Christiaan Nigrini. “To see Welbedacht Skoolblok Steen 2025 acknowledged among the country’s finest Chenin Blanc wines is both humbling and motivating. It reflects the passion, dedication and commitment to quality that drives everything we do at Welbedacht.”
The achievement marks another milestone for Welbedacht Wine Estate, a historic family-owned estate renowned for crafting wines that reflect both heritage and innovation.
For more information, wine sales, or media enquiries, please contact rene@welbedacht.co.za.