WeeklySA_AdminGRAPEVINE: Newly released Prescient Report results confirm consistency of some renowned labelswhile springing a few surprises on unsuspecting wine lovers…
By Len Maseko
The Prescient Chenin Blanc and Shiraz Report results, a Top 10 selection of both varietals chosen from a pool of entries submitted for the consideration of a panel of judges, were released this week – and bringing a bag of surprises that will always generate a variety of responses among wine lovers.
The report, established by financial services company Prescient in 1998, is sponsored by Winemag.co.za.
This year’s Shiraz Report is the final outcome of blind-tasting of 71 entries by a three-person panel, scored according to the 100-point quality scale. As was the case with Chenin Blanc, which drew 63 entries comprising single-variety Chenin Blanc and 15 Cape White Blends (defined as any blend containing a Chenin Blanc component of more than 15% and less than 85%). Likewise as Shiraz, these wines were tasted blind by a three-person panel, with scoring done according to the 100-point quality scale.
Shiraz and Syrah are, of course, two names for the same grape, with the former characteristically reflective of power, the latter (Syrah) restraint. In addition, the two broad stylistic camps are typically identified as (Syrah) overtly aromatic, medium-bodied yet densely structured wines of France’s Rhône Valley, and (Shiraz) deeply coloured, plush-fruited examples associated with Australia’s Barossa and South Africa, though today the latter increasingly embraces both styles.
In South Africa, Shiraz plantings account for 8,340ha or 9.6% of the country’s 86,544ha under vine—second only to Cabernet Sauvignon among red varieties. Originating from the Rhône, Syrah wines are also characterised by dark berry and pepper flavours, presenting a sophisticated and intricate profile.
The Top 10 Shiraz winners:
• De Grendel Op Die Berg Syrah 2023 – 95 points
• Klein Amoskuil Nagmuis Bushvine Syrah 2023 – 95 points
• Raar Carbonic MarcerationSyrah 2024 – 95 points
• Glenelly Glass Collection 2022 – 94 points
• Stellenbosch Reserve Kruithuis Syrah 2022 – 94 points
• Groot Phesantekraal Syrah 2023 – 94 points
• Kasteelberg Syrah 2024 – 94 points
• Stellenbosch Kruithuis Syrah 2022 – 94 points
• Von The Sir Syrah 2024 – 2023 – 94 points
• De Grendel Op Die Berg Syrah 2022 – 93 points
Chenin Blanc is one of the world’s most versatile grape varieties and is South Africa’s most widely planted, making up 15 913ha or 18.4% of the total 86 544ha currently under vine. Notes from the judges panel about the Cape White Blends describe it as an important, if niche, category.
“No official definition exists but our proposal is that such wines can be made from any combination of varieties as long as they include a significant Chenin Blanc component, specifically more than 15% and less than 85% – the wines that result are often compelling in their complexity and, moreover, no other wine region in the world can lay claim to them,” concludes.
And, the Top 10 Chenin Blanc winners:
• Perdeberg The Dry Land Collection Courageous Barrel-Fermented 2024 – 96 points
• Rikus Neethling 2024 (Bizoe) – 95 points
• Vrede en Lust Kogelberg 2024 – 95 points
• Cederberg Nieuwoudt Five Generations 2024 – 94 points
• Warwick Old Vine 2023 – 94 points
• Croydon Covenant 2024 – 94 points
• Durbanville Hills Collectors Reserve The Cape Garden 2024 – 93 points
• Bellingham The Bernard Series Old Vine Limited Release 2023 – 93 points
• Chamonix Old Vine Steen 2024 – 93 points
• Knorhoek 2024 – 93 points
Cape White Blends Top Three
• Perdeberg The Dry Land Collection Rossouw’s Heritage 2023 (Best Overall) – 93 points
• Cavalli Reserve White 2024 – 93 points
• Fairview Beryl Back 2023 – 93 points
* These wines are defined as any blend containing a Chenin Blanc component of more than 15% and less than 85%
EVENTS
JOBURG’S POPULAR BUBBLY FEST
Hundreds of bubbly lovers are expected to rock up for the Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival 2025 over the two days of the show at Inanda Country Club in Sandton tomorrow and Sunday.
Tickets cost R450 per person via Webtickets. However, Saturday’s show tickets are sold out already.This exclusive event brings together lovers of sparkling wine to celebrate the finest bubbles from South Africa and France.
The gathering offers an intimate setting to enjoy a variety of sparkling wines in a refined and festive atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy bubbly tastings, live music, and thoughtful details like welcome drinks, tasting coupons, and special gifts for select ticket holders.
Klerksdorp Whisky Classic
North West whisky lovers should gear from a special treat when the visit The Whisky Classic show on May 31.
The organisers of the annual event have created a curated selection of whiskies and spirits from 12 world-class distilleries, featuring new releases, rare finds, and timeless classicsGuests will be pampered with fine labels of the drama against the backdrop of good music under the stars, accompanied by mouth-watering food and expertly crafted cocktails.
General Access tickets are R475 (buy one, get one free), includes tastings on the main floor, whisky glass to take home, bottle of still water and tasting passport.
Masterclass + General Access (Limited to 30 Guests) costs R800, includes general access, plus a private masterclass upstairs showcasing one of the world`s most prestigious distilleries.
TROPHY WINE SHOW
The annual Trophy Wine Show Great Tasting, which involves sampling a trove of award-winning wines, returns to Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on June 12.
Tickets to the event, which starts at 5pm and ends at 9pm, cost R350 via Webtickets. Expect around 150 award-winning wines (scoring 90 points and above) selected by international and local wine professionals.
Highlights at The Great Tasting include the Best White and Best Red Wines of Show, the International Judges’ trophy winner, Best Premium Wine, the Discovery of the Show (best value wine) and Investec Champion Winemaker of the Year.Tickets are limited and include the sampling of all wines, a delicious deli snack (value R120) and the tasting glass to take home. Investec cardholders receive 20 percent on their ticket purchase. Limited PnP Smart Shopper cardholder discounted tickets are available on a first-come-first-served basis (two tickets for the price of one).
ANNUAL GRAPE ESCAPE
Wine Concepts will host their 5th annual Grape Escape Wine Festival at Moyo Restaurant, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town, on May 29. Following the success of previous festivals, this year’s event promises to be an exclusive evening of exceptional wine tasting. The festival will feature an exciting and diverse selection of wines from uncommon varieties and blends. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste the best offerings of these varietals and blends from 40 of the country’s top wine producers – all to the accompaniment of snacks will be served throughout the evening to perfectly complement the tasting experience.The event starts at 6pm and ends at 9pm. Tickets cost R45O per person via Quicket (includes entrance, wine glass, tastings, and snacks).
MENLYN WINE MEANDER
A celebration of the art of wine takes place at Pretoria’s Central Square Menlyn Maine tomorrow.
The organisers are planning a delightful afternoon filled with live music and over 15 exquisite wines to taste. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out with friends and family, this event is perfect for everyone.What visitors to the show can expect is music performances by local artists; sampling a diverse selection of wines from renowned vineyards. The event starts at 11am. Tickets, costing R150 per person, available via Webtickets. Central Square Menlyn Maine is situated on 180 Amarand Avenue, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria.
KZN WINE FEST
KwaZulu-Natal’s North Side Wine Festival will present a tasting adventure for local wine lovers on the south coast town of Port Shepstone tomorrow.
The event will be held at Umthunzi Hotel, Umtentweni in Port Shepstone. Tickets cost R350 per person via Quicket. The event starts at 12noon. Over 20 prestigious wine farms, each offering a unique expression of terroir and tradition, will be present.
The festival will be taking place at 4 distinct venues Jaxx Restaurant, Schooners Restaurant & Bar, Umthunzi Hotel and The Cellar at Honeywood. The event will be a celebration of wine, music, and culinary delights. Tickets include commemorative glass and access to all tastings and venues.. – Compiled by Len Maseko
