The results of the 2025 Shiraz SA Challenge — South Africa’s benchmark competition for Shiraz, Shiraz-based blends, and Shiraz rosé — were announced on Thursday, 7 August 2025 at Blacksmith’s Estate in Paarl. The event celebrated the variety, quality, and innovation in South African Shiraz. Chair of Shiraz SA, Riaan Möller, noted a continued rise in innovation and terroir focus, not only in premium single-varietal Shiraz but also in blends and rosé.
Judging
The judging took place from 24–27 June at Paarl, the competition’s venue since 2013. A total of 173 wines were entered from across South Africa, with Stellenbosch leading in submissions. The panel was chaired by Edmund Terblanche of La Motte, joined by winemaker Elzette du Preez, Morgan Steyn of De Grendel, wine journalist Samarie Smith-Meletiou, and sommelier Georgio Meletiou of Spier. Cape Winemakers Guild protégé Nompumelelo Mosaka participated as junior panellist.
Shiraz SA’s judging method ensures impartiality: each judge receives an individual tasting order and no discussion is allowed during tasting. The process was supported by Wine MS, audited by Exceed Group, with glassware provided by Crystal Direct and bottle seals by Lebone Paarl Labels. Unused wine was donated to the Pebbles Project. Terblanche highlighted the wide stylistic range, from bold structured examples to fresher, whole-bunch styles, reflecting South Africa’s diverse Shiraz expression.
2025 Winners: Excellence Across Categories
Eighteen winners were announced in three categories.
Top 12 Shiraz
Babylonstoren Shiraz 2022; De Grendel Op die Berg Syrah 2023; De Grendel Op die Berg Syrah 2022; De Grendel Shiraz 2021; Diemersdal Shiraz 2023; Diemersdal Syrah 2023; MAN Vintners Skaapveld Syrah 2024; Saronsberg Provenance Shiraz 2023; Stellenrust ArtiSons Blueberry Hill Shiraz 2023; Stellenrust ArtiSons Missing Link Shiraz 2023; Tokara Shiraz 2022; Von The Sir Shiraz 2023.
Shiraz-based Blends
Babylonstoren Babel 2023; Flagstone Velvet Shiraz Blend 2023; Guardian Peak SMG 2022; Saronsberg Full Circle 2022; Spier Creative Block 3 2021.
Rosé
Eerste Hoop Shiraz Rosé 2025.
De Grendel achieved a record three Top 12 Shiraz awards. Diemersdal and Stellenrust each secured two places, while Saronsberg and Babylonstoren won in both Shiraz and blend categories.
Bernard Podlashuk Shiraz Trophy
The Bernard Podlashuk Shiraz Trophy, sponsored by Bellingham, recognises visionary winemaking, sustainability, creativity, and social responsibility. The 2025 trophy and R30 000 prize went to Journey’s End, known for its quality and community-focused initiatives. Finalists were DeMorgenzon and Stellenrust, with Stellenrust achieving back-to-back recognition.
Partnerships to Promote Top Wines
Main sponsor Vinventions SA, in partnership with newcomer Fermentis Lesaffre, supported the Challenge. Port2Port has been named official sales partner, offering award-winning wines online and in a newsletter to over 65 000 buyers. A curated 12-bottle Top 12 pack will be available, assembled by Pieter Badenhorst of For the Love of Wine.
The Shiraz SA Challenge continues to raise the bar for South African wine, with each year bringing new stories and expressions of excellence. Shiraz lovers are invited to celebrate National Shiraz Day on Thursday, 21 August, a tradition launched in 2021.
