South African wines win big at prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition

The kudos keep rolling in for top South African wines and wineries.

More awards were raked in at the prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) held in London this week.

The 2024 IWSC received over 4,000 entries from more than 90 countries.

Perdeberg Wines, situated in the Paarl region, won the Old Vine Producer Trophy. Judges said the award is a testament to their passion and the exceptional quality of their old vine wines.

Vilafonté, located at the foothills of Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, was awarded the 2024 Red Wine Producer Trophy, along with a number of medals.

"The winery's performance at the IWSC 2024 awards was nothing short of remarkable, with an impressive tally of three gold and three silver medals, showcasing the consistently high quality of its wines."

International Wine & Spirits Competition

'It was a very proudly South African moment', says Mike Ratcliffe, owner of Vilafonté Vineyards and chairperson of Stellenbosch Wine Routes.

Looking at the big picture, this win for Vilafonté is really about building South African wine, specifically the top-end fine wine category, Ratcliffe remarks.

He says they're extremely proud to be part of a fast-growing contingent of local  producers who, even ten years ago, it seemed inconceivable could take on the big names.

"There are a growing number of 20, maybe even 30 wineries now, who are taking on the big boys in the world, and winning."

"And I don't think South Africa is trying to mimic the rest of the world; there is a South African style of wine which is starting to emerge."

Mike Ratcliffe, Owner - Vilafonté Vineyards

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