South Africa’s favourite crisp, refreshing cultivar is stepping into the spotlight once again. Entries are officially open for the prestigious FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10, marking a monumental milestone as the competition celebrates its 20th edition this year.
Presented by Sauvignon Blanc South Africa in partnership with title partner FNB and platinum partner Ever Solutions, this remains the country’s only wine competition dedicated exclusively to Sauvignon Blanc. For two decades, it has served as the ultimate benchmark for excellence, shining a light on the incredible quality, diversity, and innovation within the category.
A Two-Decade Legacy of Excellence
What started as a quest to find South Africa’s finest expressions of the grape has evolved into a cornerstone of the local wine industry. Reflecting on this landmark anniversary, Sauvignon Blanc South Africa Chairperson and Steenberg Vineyards Cellarmaster, Elunda Basson, highlights just how far the cultivar has come.
“For two decades, the FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 has recognised outstanding wines and encouraged producers to keep raising the bar,” says Basson. “Looking back, it is remarkable to see how South African Sauvignon Blanc has evolved in quality, style and regional expression. The competition, together with projects such as our book and aroma wheel, continues to tell that story.”
This platinum anniversary follows a highly successful 2025 for the association, which saw the launch of The Story of South African Sauvignon Blanc coffee table book alongside the country’s very first Sauvignon Blanc Aroma Wheel—two landmark projects that beautifully document the history and sensory evolution of the grape on South African soil.
The Experts Behind the Palate
The rigorous judging process is set to take place from Tuesday 25 to Thursday 27 August at the picturesque Bontevlei in Stellenbosch. A distinguished panel of respected winemakers and specialists will evaluate the entries under the expert guidance of convenor Dr. Carien Coetzee.
Joining her on the panel are some of the industry’s most revered palates:
- Dr. Winifred Bowman CWM
- Morgan Steyn (De Grendel Wines)
- RJ Botha (Kleine Zalze Wines)
- Johann Fourie (Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate)
Two talented protégé judges, offering invaluable mentorship to the next generation of wine experts.
The highly anticipated 20 finalists will be revealed in September, culminating in the grand finale on Wednesday 14 October, where the Top 10 winners will be officially crowned at the annual gala awards event.
How to Enter
Are you a producer ready to showcase your finest vintage? Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic 20th-edition line-up.
Enter Online: Visit sauvignonblanc.com/top10-entry
Entry Fees: R1,800 per wine for members | R2,300 per wine for non-members
Closing Date: Tuesday 11 August 2026
Late Entries Close: Tuesday 18 August 2026 (additional costs apply)
For more information, email [email protected] or call 083 256 9814.
