2026 Gold Wine Awards –

The endless quest for value wines continues

The 13th annual Gold Wine Awards were held in late August 2026 at the Vredenheim Wine Estate outside Stellenbosch, setting the stage for a focused and energetic judging experience. With a panel made up largely of retail specialists, the brief was clear: identify wines that deliver exceptional value, with still wine entries capped at R200.00 and sparkling wines at R240.00, all assessed under strict double-blind conditions. This distinctive emphasis on affordability and quality continues to set the awards apart and makes it a firm favourite among the judging panel. The blind format fuels a sense of anticipation, as reputations fall away and the wines speak entirely for themselves. Although the judging demands concentration and discipline, the shared enthusiasm for discovering standout bottles created a dynamic and engaging atmosphere, where rigorous assessment was matched by genuine enjoyment.

South African Wine: Navigating a Changing Landscape

South African wines are thriving in a world of shifting economies and evolving consumer tastes. Global pressures—rising inflation, supply chain challenges, and international trade hurdles like US tariffs—are testing producers, yet they’re meeting these challenges with creativity and skill. Consumers are responding, increasingly seeking wines that combine quality, value, and sustainability. Small-batch, artisan expressions and long-established local favourites are capturing attention, proving that great wine doesn’t need to come with a hefty price tag.

At home, economic realities are equally influential. A weaker rand helps exports remain competitive but raises the cost of imported essentials like barrels and corks. Inflation, load shedding and fuel increases force wineries to innovate, investing in efficiency and backup power to maintain standards. These pressures also shape buying habits: budget-friendly wines are in strong demand, while premium labels remain niche but highly regarded. Tasting rooms benefit from tourism, which is rebounding unevenly, and convenient formats such as bag-in-box and bulk wines are gaining popularity even in higher end wines.

Despite these challenges, South African winemakers continue to adapt and excel. By embracing sustainability, premiumisation, and inventive marketing, they ensure their wines deliver exceptional quality and value. The result is an industry that remains resilient, globally respected, and deeply connected to local wine lovers—a testament to the passion, ingenuity, and enduring spirit of South Africa’s wine producers.

Panelists at the 2026 Gold Wine Awards

For the Gold Wine Awards, the panel isn’t just made up of judges—it’s a team of retail insiders who know exactly what consumers are looking for. These experts understand the flavours, styles, and price points that move off the shelves, keeping the awards closely aligned with the pulse of the market. By partnering with the people shaping buying decisions, the Gold Wine Awards ensure that every medal reflects both excellence and real-world appeal.

The all-star panel consisted of retail veterans Ad and Johan Wegner from GetWine, Reinette Muir from Wine Concepts Newlands, Sue Proudfoot from Wine Concepts Kloof Street, Gary van der Waldt from Wine & Co. Hermanus, Ezra Benjamin from Liquor City Claremont, Jaco Sadie from Wyn in Somerset West, Georgio Meletiou from Spier Estate and Gregory Lorimer, head sommelier at Oldenburg Vineyards.

Renette Muir – Wine Concepts Newlands

Sue Proudfoot – Wine Concepts

Gregory Lorimer head sommelier at Oldenburg Vineyards

Ad Wegner – Getwine

Ezra Benjamin – Liquor City Claremont

Gary van der Walt – Wine & Company

Jaco Sadie from Main Wyn

Georgio Meletiou – Spier Estate

Johan Wegner from Getwine

Wines at R200, and sparkling wines at R240 and below per bottle

Consumers often lack clear guidance when seeking quality wines that deliver great value, particularly within more affordable price ranges. Awards help bridge this gap, serving as trusted indicators of quality that empower consumers to make smarter, confident purchasing decisions.

The best wines were awarded gold or double gold, indicating value for money. After scoring the wines, the results are then statistically correlated to the price to determine whether the wines offer real value for money. The top-performing producers can use the Top 10 sticker on their bottles, proclaiming their Top 10 position.

Retailers recognise that affordable, quality wines drive their business, as consumers become increasingly selective, unwilling to compromise on taste even at lower prices. The awarded wines exceeded expectations, particularly impressive given their affordability, with still wines priced around R200 and sparkling wines available for R240 or less per bottle.

Sauvignon blanc

Sauvignon blanc dominated the tasting, taking centre stage with its signature freshness and vibrant personality. The 2026 vintage impressed with crisp acidity and lively, expressive fruit, while the 2025 wines offered richer, layered flavours that revealed more depth and nuance. The session highlighted the grape’s enduring charm and versatility, showcasing winemakers’ skill in capturing its distinctive character across vintages.

We asked the wine tasters, that if they had to choose between a 2026 or 2025 Sauvignon blanc, which they had no clue about in the budget range, which one they would choose. The tasters were adamant that they would prefer the 2025.

We also asked the tasters which characteristic they would regard the highest in a budget friendly Sauvignon blanc, and most of them preferred youthfulness to complexity.

D’Aria did very well with their Sauvignon blanc 2026

Kaapzicht Sauvignon blanc 2026

Chenin blanc

Chenin blanc was the second-largest category in the tasting, with the 2026 vintage impressing for its precise acidity and elegant, expressive aromas, showcasing the grape’s remarkable versatility. The 2025 wines offered richer, more developed flavours, demonstrating Chenin blanc’s capacity to age gracefully. Together, the vintages highlighted the grape’s consistent quality and celebrated the skill of winemakers in capturing the best of each year’s harvest.

We asked the wine tasters, that if they had to choose between a 2026 or 2025 Chenin blanc, which they had no clue about in the budget range, which one they would choose. The tasters were said they all would prefer the 2025.

Kranskop did very well with their Chenin blanc 2026

Montagu is a perineal favourite when it comes to value for money Chenin blanc

BC Wines Chenin blanc 2026

Nuy Winery Inspiration Chenin blanc 2026

Rosé / Blanc de noir (BdN)

The Rosé and Blanc de Noir category was the third-largest white wine class, once again proving its popularity. Lighter wines dazzled with vibrant citrus and crisp green apple, while deeper-hued styles offered more layered profiles, featuring red and stone fruit nuances. The tasting showcased the versatility of these wines, highlighting winemakers’ skill in coaxing a range of expressions—from fresh and zesty to elegantly nuanced. Across the board, the balance of fruit and dryness confirmed why Rosé and Blanc de Noir are perfect for any occasion.

Zorgvliet Silvermyn Rosé

Hill&Dale Dry Rosé Merlot

Silkbush Rosé 2026

Joubert Family Wines Rosé 2026

Category preferences for value for money

We asked some of the tasters to rate the following white wine categories, in order of value-for-money, from most value-for-money to least, and this was the result:

• Sauvignon blanc
• Chenin blanc
• White blends
• Chardonnay
• Blanc de Noir / Rosé

Sauvignon blanc value spending tips.

We asked some of the tasters what factors they would recommend to look at when buying value for money Sauvignon blanc, and this was the result:

• Younger vintage is better
• Must be in a screw-cap
• Must be chilled
• Area the grapes were grown
• Beautiful label
• Deep punt

Red wine:

Shiraz

Shiraz was the fourth-biggest red wine class and the wines were very consistent, with some excellent examples of the cultivar.

The Shiraz tasting showed the grape’s remarkable versatility, with judges encountering a wide spectrum of flavours and style. Some wines dazzled with bold, concentrated characteristics, bursting with ripe blackberry, dark chocolate, and sumptuous depth. Others impressed with subtle sophistication, offering elegant layers of black pepper, leather, and delicate spice. This diversity highlighted Shiraz’s ability to deliver both power and finesse, providing wine lovers with an engaging and dynamic tasting experience.

The 2025 vintage, in particular, stood out for its vibrant red fruit, well-integrated spice, and harmonious oak, combining intensity and approachability in equal measure. Across the line-up, the tasting reinforced why Shiraz remains a favourite for both expressive, full-bodied styles and more refined, nuanced interpretations, showcasing the skill of winemakers in coaxing the best from each vintage.

Saxenburg Diamond Hill Syrah

KWV Petit Verdot always seems to do well

Kolenhof Koelenbosch Shiraz 2023

Gravel Junction Three Peaks Merlot 2025

Landskroon Cabernet Sauvignon 2025

McGregor Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

Pinotage

Pinotage was the third-largest red wine category, showcasing a wide spectrum of styles and flavours. Some wines impressed with rich dark cherry and plum, delivering depth and intensity, while others were lighter and more nuanced, offering red berry, earthy notes, and a whisper of smoke. The tasting proved that Pinotage can be both bold and approachable, catering to diverse palates.

Judges also noted a marked improvement in winemaking across the board. Most 2025 vintage wines were expertly crafted, displaying vibrant varietal character, excellent balance, and thoughtful oak integration, signalling that producers are increasingly mastering this iconic South African grape.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot

Merlot was the second-most popular red in the tasting, celebrated for its smooth, approachable style. Most 2025 vintage wines offered gentle flavours of ripe plum and fresh red berries, blending seamlessly to deliver Merlot’s signature softness. The tasting reaffirmed why this varietal remains a favourite, consistently producing easy-drinking reds that are perfect for relaxed, enjoyable moments.

The red blend tasting showcased winemaking creativity at its finest. Classic Bordeaux-style blends, led by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, impressed with balance and elegant structure, while Cape blends combined local and international grapes to deliver bold, distinctive flavours that capture South Africa’s unique style. Each wine told its own story, reflecting both the terroir and the skill of its maker. The tasting proved how tradition and innovation come together to create exciting, memorable blends.

Boschkloof Prologue

Kaapzicht Bottelary Rooi 2023

Value for money preferences for red wine.

We asked some of the tasters to rate the red wine types, from most value-for-money to least when buying a value for money red wine at R120.00, and this is the order of importance according to them:

• Bordeaux Blend
• Shiraz
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Other Red blend

Smart spending in the wine aisle

• Choose wines that do well in particular regions – terroir driven wines
• Ask staff for advice
• Choose well-known brands
• Try something else for a change
• Experiment on the types of wines you like first
• Ask friends for their favourites

The Top 10 producers were:

• Brandvlei Wynkelder
• D’Aria Winery
• Gravel Junction Wine and Spirits
• Hill&Dale
• Koelenhof Wynkelder
• KWV
• McGregor Wine Company
• Montagu Winery
• Nuy Winery
• Slanghoek Wynkelder

This year’s Double Gold winners

This event would not have been possible without our partner:

Details about the 2027 Gold Wine Awards will be announced in the last week of January 2027.

For enquiries, visit the website at https://goldwineawards.com/ or contact Sanet at sanet@goldwineawards.co.za.