South African wine reaches extraordinary new heights in Master of Wine Tim Atkin’s 14th annual Special Report, confirming the region’s position among the world’s premier vinous destinations. Produced in partnership with Private Clients by Old Mutual, the extensive report evaluates 1,831 wines from more than 350 cellars, celebrating the depth, diversity, and rapid maturation of the Cape winelands.
Atkin notes that South Africa’s “New Wave” producers have truly come of age, serving as a dynamic engine of change across the sector. With white wines at a historic peak and red wines undergoing a dramatic evolution, the report underscores the Cape’s standing on the world stage—particularly ahead of what Atkin calls a “historic, once-in-a-generation” 2025 vintage.
The Top Honors: Sadie Family and Alheit Claim Wine of the Year
Leading the 2026 report is the 2024 Sadie Family Columella, which achieved a rare, perfect 100-point score to earn Overall Red Wine of the Year. The Swartland flagship—a Mediterranean-inspired red blend driven by Syrah and Mourvèdre—is only the ninth wine to ever receive 100 points from Atkin, and the second Columella vintage to do so.
Overall White Wine of the Year honors went to the 2025 Alheit Vineyards Huilkrans Chenin Blanc, scoring an exceptional 99 points. Sourced from ancient, high-altitude vines in the Citrusdal Mountain region, the wine encapsulates the power and distinctive mineral purity that has made South African Chenin Blanc a global sensation. In total, 248 wines in the report received 95 points or higher.
Honoring Visionary Winemakers and Rising Talent
The report’s prestigious “Podium” awards celebrated the individuals pushing South African viticulture forward:
Winemaker of the Year: Hannes Storm of Storm Wines, recognized for his precise, site-driven Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from the Hemel-en-Aarde sub-regions.
Winery of the Year: Lismore Estate Vineyards in Greyton, led by founder Samantha O’Keefe, honoured for sustained excellence across two decades.
Young Winemaker of the Year: Jolandie Fouché of Wolf & Woman Wines, celebrated for her minimal-intervention, vineyard-focused approach.
Winemaking Legend: Pieter Ferreira, credited with shaping traditional-method sparkling wine over a 37-year career, primarily at Graham Beck.
Additional awards recognized Stefan Johannes (Zwartwater Wines) as Rising Star of the Year, while Chris Steyn and Cató Rabie of Eendrag Farm in Stellenbosch took home Growers of the Year.
Outstanding Value and Discoveries
Alongside iconic releases, Atkin highlighted everyday excellence. Stellenbosch proved a powerhouse for accessible quality, with the 2025 Kaapzicht Granite Ridge OVP Chenin Blanc named Best Value White and the 2024 De Morgenzon DMZ Syrah claiming Best Value Red. Standout discoveries included the 2025 Electric Mud Old Bush Vines Grenache and Elgin’s 2024 Iona Beeskamp Single Vineyard Pinot Noir.
The complete 328-page 2026 South Africa Special Report, featuring detailed tasting notes, vintage guides, and producer classifications, is available to download at timatkin.com.
