South Africa’s premier wine authority, Platter’s South African Wine Guide, is turning the page on tradition. In an exciting break from its long-standing history, Platter’s has announced a multi-year narrative strategy, introducing a planned four-edition collector’s series spanning 2027 to 2030.
Rather than keeping its new visual direction under wraps until the official launch, Platter’s is offering wine enthusiasts, collectors, and industry insiders a first look at what lies ahead. Here is everything lifestyle readers and wine lovers need to know about this refreshed, collectable evolution.
Starting the Journey: The New Vine Edition
Opening this coordinated four-year series is the 2027 edition, titled The New Vine Edition. Inspired by themes of renewal and growth, the book introduces a refreshed aesthetic while launching a sequence of four annual guides. While each edition from 2027 through 2030 will feature its own distinct identity, together they will form a connected four-part collection.
It is important for collectors to note that the full four-book set is not being released all at once; instead, each volume will be published individually year by year, inviting readers to build their collection over time.
High Stakes and Big News at Diemersdal
The official launch of the 2027 guide is set for Thursday, 19 November 2026, hosted at the picturesque Diemersdal Wine Estate in Durbanville. The location holds special significance: Diemersdal was crowned Winery of the Year in the 2026 Platter’s guide after earning an incredible six Five-Star ratings.
Because the visual concept for the new collection has already been revealed, the 19 November event will dispense with the traditional cover unveiling. Instead, attendees—ranging from winemakers and critics to sommeliers and lifestyle media—will be treated to previously unannounced developments. Alongside the eagerly anticipated Five-Star ratings, Wines of the Year, and top winery honours, Platter’s plans to unveil new forms of recognition for producers who achieve outstanding scores.
Honouring Heritage while Inspiring the Future
First published in 1980, Platter’s has chronicled the rich evolution of South African winemaking for over four decades. The upcoming 2027 edition continues this legacy with comprehensive wine assessments, detailed cellar-door experience guides, and in-depth producer profiles.
“Platter’s represents the remarkable depth, diversity and talent of South African wine,” says Platter’s Alicia Potgieter. “Every edition honours the dedication of the people behind the wines and gives us an opportunity to recognise excellence across the industry.”
The Perfect Festive Gift
Whether you are looking for a reliable companion when picking a bottle for dinner, planning a weekend trip to the Winelands, or searching for the perfect holiday gift for a wine enthusiast, the 2027 guide fits the bill. It offers both practical insight and the exciting beginning of a four-year collecting tradition.
Pre-orders for the 2027 New Vine Edition are now open online at www.wineonaplatter.com.
