2024 Awards shows both Innovation and quality are important
This year was the first year that this event was held under its new look and name, and everyone agrees that it was a positive change, helping to propel the event to new heights in the future.
This wine and spirits awards was started to celebrate new thinking on every level, and to encourage new styles and techniques to launch the wine and spirits industry into a new age. The idea is to cherish every aspect of the wine and spirits industry that is good, and is still relevant, but also to champion new ideas, and experiment to shape the future. New styles and trends are what keeps the world spinning, and without innovation, life would simply be pedestrian. This event aims to celebrate both ingenuity and established new standards of quality.
This year the event was held on the spectacular Vredenheim wine farm just outside Stellenbosch, which served as the ideal venue for this painstaking endeavour, to find the best the industry can produce.
Both wine and spirits producers sometimes borrow from the past, then add a twist, and showcase something new, and there is nothing wrong with that. Similarly, this event is building on its past to be more relevant to producers.
Top judges with open minds boldly go into the depth of the present, to discover the future.
This year we contacted some of the best tasters, but also some of the most open-minded people to evaluate products. The judges were as follows.
Quality is the only objective measure used, but when combined with price, can tell a different story
Modern consumers are open-minded and open to experimentation of styles, but quality is the only thing that has to be on point. The tasters meticulously tasted and swirled each product in their glass, sniffed and savoured the aroma to make sure about their evaluation. To this end, the top wines and spirits were awarded gold and double gold awards for quality. Although quality cannot be negotiated, when combined with price it is a whole new ball game, and as a value add, value products were also awarded.
Wines that are R160.00 and below, sparkling wines that are R200.00 and below, and Spirits that are R320.00 and below, could also come into consideration for value awards, and a combination of value and quality awards.
All award stickers are shaped double circles, and measure 47x25mm.
Best Performers
Considering the score of the top three scoring products, the producers that did the best overall were.
- Gravel Junction
- Nicholson Smith Agencies
- Van Loveren
- DGB
- Time Anchor Distillery
Consistency is often the hallmark of top producers, and these companies had it in spades.
Tasting comments and some of the top wines
During the Sauvignon blanc tasting, the spotlight was on the 2024 vintage, with a handful of wines from the 2023 vintage. The 2024 offering exhibited a remarkable consistency in quality, marked by vibrant acidity and distinct varietal characteristics. Aromas ranged from zesty citrus and tropical fruits to herbaceous notes, showcasing the grape’s versatility. The palate often displayed a refreshing acidity and a lively interplay of flavours, with some wines expressing pronounced minerality. The 2023 selections, presented a more mature profile with well-integrated flavours. Overall, the tasting emphasized the excellence of the 2024 Sauvignon blanc vintage, affirming its potential to become a benchmark year for this varietal.
During the Chenin blanc tasting, the focus was again primarily on the 2024 vintage. The 2024 Chenins exhibited a profound expression of the grape, marked by a refined balance of crisp acidity and a nuanced aromatic profile. Aromas ranged from delicate floral notes to the complexity of ripe stone fruits, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of this vintage. The palate revealed a structured elegance, with a harmonious interplay of flavours, suggesting the potential for these wines to age gracefully.
The versatility of Chardonnay as a cultivar was evident across a spectrum of profiles. The wines displayed a nuanced aromatic tapestry, ranging from citrus zest and green apple in cooler climate specimens to tropical fruit notes and subtle vanilla undertones in oak-aged counterparts. The palate showcased a delicate interplay of acidity, providing structural integrity, and a judicious use of oak, contributing to textural complexity. Cooler climate examples demonstrated a profound minerality, underscoring the importance of terroir. The balance between malolactic fermentation and crisp acidity was carefully scrutinized, with some wines showcasing a creamy texture while others embraced a more vibrant, linear character.
We asked our tasters what new trends they are currently seeing in the white wine market, and here are some of the observations:
- Lower alcohol white wines
- Niche cultivars (Viognier, Marsanne, Rousanne etc.)
- White blends with high concentration
- Saline and minerally styles are on the up in Chenin, Sauvignon blanc and Chardonnay
- Cap Classique is still continuing its meteoric rise, and the consumers are using it innovatively in cocktails, and slowly becoming a normal everyday drink “for those with style”.
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At the red blend tasting, a meticulous examination of diverse styles unfolded, revealing a captivating array of profiles. The amalgamation of grape varietals showcased a strategic approach to crafting wines of complexity and balance. Aromatically, the blends presented a symphony of red and dark fruit, with nuanced expressions of blackcurrant, plum, and cherry. Oak treatment played a pivotal role, contributing subtle vanilla, spice, and cedar notes that integrated seamlessly into the palate. Tannin structures were carefully evaluated, with well-defined, velvety textures prevalent in several examples. The interaction between primary fruit characters and secondary nuances was a focal point, highlighting the artful mastery of winemaking. This analytical exploration underscored the craftsmanship behind blended red wines, emphasizing the potential for achieving harmony and depth through thoughtful blending practices.
The Shiraz wines presented a vast array of dark fruit, with profound notes of blackberry and plum dominating the aromatic ensemble. Oak nuances, from restrained vanilla to subtle spice, underscored the gravity of the experience. Tannin structures, ranged from velvety refinement to a resolute, lingering intensity. The palate, a testament to the gravity of craftsmanship, revealed a profound marriage of fruit and oak, creating a dignified and contemplative sensory journey. This tasting emphasized the earnest commitment of the winemakers to quality inherent in each Shiraz, portraying the varietal with a sense of reverence and sophistication.
The Merlot wines displayed its undeniable charm and versatility. Aromas of ripe red berries and plums greeted the senses, while the palate celebrated a velvety texture and well-integrated tannins. Merlot’s inherent approachability shone through, offering a delightful balance of fruit-forward expression and subtle complexity. This tasting reaffirmed Merlot’s status as a perennial crowd-pleaser, capable of delivering wines that exude positivity and drinkability.
We asked the tasters what trends they are currently seeing in red wines, and here are some of the comments:
- Lighter styles
- Cultivars that lend themselves to lighter styles like Cinsaut, Grenache and Gamay Noir.
We asked our tasters to rate the importance of the following criteria, when a consumer chooses a product, and the importance, from least to most important are as follows:
- How well it is known
- Has a good backstory
- Packaging
- Intrinsic quality
Tasting comments on the spirits
At the gin tasting, the sheer diversity of styles left a trail of positivity and palate-pleasing discoveries. From the classic sophistication of London Dry Gins to the audacious creativity of contemporary craft concoctions, each sip unfolded a new chapter in the world of botanical brilliance. Bright bursts of citrus, exotic twists of botanicals, and the nuanced elegance of juniper-driven classics showcased the endless possibilities within the gin spectrum. Barrel-aged varieties brought a warm, velvety complexity, adding yet another layer of charm. The tasting was a testament to the vibrancy of the gin world, offering a positive parade of flavours and styles that cater to every discerning taste. This exploration reaffirmed the boundless joy and positivity inherent in the world of gin, where every bottle is a celebration waiting to unfold. One of the standouts was the Mirari Damask Rose gin that earned a Double Gold.
Local Agave made a strong showing this year, ranging from Blanco and Reposado to Extra aged. It is wonderful that this category is coming into its own, shaking its old reputation, and starting to play with the big boys’ becoming serious and being counted. There are some trailblazers for this category in South Africa, and among them Brian Neary from Lazy Sunday Distillery, that did extremely well overall, and who was instrumental in establishing the numerous categories for Agave in South Africa.
At the rum tasting, a serious tasting occurred, revealing the profound spectrum of flavours within the realm of this distinguished spirit. Aged expressions exhibited a refined complexity, with notes of oak, caramel, and subtle spice weaving an intricate tapestry. Artisanal distillations showcased meticulous craftsmanship, capturing the essence of sugarcane with a serious depth of character. From velvety sipping rums to robust, spiced variants, the tasting underscored the gravity of rum appreciation. Each expression, a testament to the venerable traditions and serious dedication embedded in the world of rum production.
The vodka tasting unveiled a diverse spectrum of expressions. Classic vodkas exhibited pristine clarity and a refined neutrality, emphasizing purity. The Lazy Sunday Vodka stood out and earned a Double Gold award.
This year included a surprising number of brandies, that showed very well. The tasters were thrilled with the age range, and this was a standout group.
We asked our tasters in which areas spirits producers have the most opportunity to innovate, and the areas were as follows:
- Agave Spirits
- RTDs
- Apertifs
- Liqueurs
We also asked our tasters to rate the following factors in order of importance, when consumers choose a spirits product. From least to most important, the factors were:
- Intrinsic quality
- How well it is known
- Has a good backstory
- Packaging quality
Conclusion
If this year’s results are anything to go by as far as quality and diversity, the future is looking bright. We would like to thank Michelle Grimbeek for organising the tasting, and all the wonderful tasters who leant their palate to this brave endeavour.
Details about the 2025 event will be revealed by January 2025. For all enquiries, please contact Sanet van Heerden at hello@vogueawards.com, or phone her on 084 446 0412.
We would like to thank our partner, Aquasky, for providing odourless, still and sparkling water, derived from air, to enhance our tasting experience.
Full results
| Producer | Product Name | Vintage | Award |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Square Spirits | Black Square Spirits | NA | Value Award |
| Capaia Wines | Capaia ONE | 2021 | Gold |
| Cordier South Africa | Whispering Mountain Sauvignon Blanc | 2023 | Gold & Value Award |
| Craft Link Distillery | Ginologist London Dry Gin | NA | Gold & Value Award |
| DGB PTY LTD | Boschendal XO Postill Brandy 10 Year Old | NA | Gold |
| DGB PTY LTD | Sydney Back Postill Brandy 10 Year Old | NA | Gold |
| DGB PTY LTD | Sydney Back Postill Brandy 15 Year Old | NA | Double Gold |
| DGB PTY LTD | Sydney Back Postill Brandy 25 Year Old | NA | Gold |
| Drie Berge Plaaskelder | DE KAAPSE BRANDEWIJN KOMPANJIE | NA | Gold |
| GRAVEL JUNCTION WINE & SPIRITS PTY LTD | Three Peaks Merlot | 2023 | Gold & Value Award |
| GRAVEL JUNCTION WINE & SPIRITS PTY LTD | Three Peaks Pinotage | 2023 | Value Award |
| GRAVEL JUNCTION WINE & SPIRITS PTY LTD | Three Peaks Shiraz | 2023 | Gold & Value Award |
| GRAVEL JUNCTION WINE & SPIRITS PTY LTD | Three Peaks Sauvignon Blanc | 2023 | Double Gold |
| GRAVEL JUNCTION WINE & SPIRITS PTY LTD | Three Peaks Unwooded Chardonnay | 2023 | Gold & Value Award |
| Hallucinogin Craft Distillery | Hallucinogin | NA | Gold & Value Award |
| Jordaan Broers | Theuniskraal Shiraz | 2021 | Gold & Value Award |
| Lazy Sunday Distillery (PTY) Ltd | Espadin Anejo | NA | Gold |
| Lazy Sunday Distillery (PTY) Ltd | Lazy Sunday London Dry Gin. | NA | Gold |
| Lazy Sunday Distillery (PTY) Ltd | Lazy Sunday Vodka. | 2024 | Double Gold |
| Le Manoir de Brendel | Brendel Shiraz | 2022 | Gold |
| Liqco Beverages | Comozzi Gin Spicy | NA | Gold & Value Award |
| Liqco Beverages | Comozzi Gin Citrus | NA | Gold & Value Award |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies CC | The Guru Merlot | 2021 | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies CC | Hoopenburg Merlot | 2020 | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies CC | Hoopenburg Blanc De Noir | NV | Gold |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies CC | Aden's Star The Golden Fleece Red Blend | 2021 | Gold & Value Award |
| Nicholson Smith Agencies CC | The Guru Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot | 2020 | Double Gold |
| Niel Joubert Wine Estate | Niel Joubert Estate Sauvignon Blanc | 2024 | Gold & Value Award |
| Niel Joubert Wine Estate | Niel Joubert Estate Chenin Blanc | 2024 | Gold |
| Niel Joubert Wine Estate | Niel Joubert Estate Shiraz | 2021 | Gold |
| Night Jackal Distillery | Ciao Bella Limoncello | NA | Gold & Value Award |
| Rocket Boutique Distillery | The Jalisco Collection. La Mancha. | NA | Gold |
| Select Beverage Company | Benedict's London Dry | NA | Double Gold |
| Spirit Run | African GOAT | African Ginger Gin | NA | Gold & Value Award |
| Tahlia Farm Distillery | Tahlia Farm Cactus Leaf Gin | NA | Gold |
| Tahlia Farm Distillery | Tahlia Farm Cactus Fruit Gin | NA | Gold |
| Tiger Gin | Tiger Gin | NA | Gold |
| Time Anchor Distillery | Mirari Celebration Gin | NA | Gold |
| Time Anchor Distillery | Mirari Orient Spice Gin | NA | Gold |
| Time Anchor Distillery | Mirari Damask Rose Gin | NA | Double Gold |
| Time Anchor Distillery | Mirari Exotic Citrus Gin | NA | Gold |
| Under Oaks | Under Oaks Pinotage | 2018 | Gold |
| Under Oaks | Bertus | 2021 | Gold |
| Under Oaks | Petit Syrah | 2017 | Gold |
| Van Loveren Vineyards | Van Loveren Blanc de Blanc | 2024 | Gold |
| Van Loveren Vineyards | Van Loveren Red Muscadel Blanc de Noir | 2024 | Gold & Value Award |
| Van Loveren Vineyards | Van Loveren River Red | 2023 | Gold & Value Award |
| Van Loveren Vineyards | Five's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon | 2022 | Gold & Value Award |
| Van Loveren Vineyards | Five's Reserve Chenin Blanc | 2024 | Double Gold |
| Van Loveren Vineyards | Five's Reserve Merlot Rosé | 2024 | Value Award |
| Van Loveren Vineyards | Five's Reserve Pinotage | 2023 | Gold |
| Walker Bay Vineyards | Llyswen Syrah | 2022 | Gold & Value Award |
| Walker Bay Vineyards | Llyswen Sauvignon Blanc | 2023 | Gold & Value Award |