7 days ago
Vergelegen's Estate White 2023 wins best South African white wine at the International Wine Challenge
Vergelegen's Estate White 2023 has won the trophy for the best South African white wine in the International Wine Challenge.
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Vergelegen's Estate White 2023, renowned for its intense aromatics and flinty core, has won the trophy for the best South African white wine in the International Wine Challenge.
This competition is widely regarded as the wine world's most influential, impartial and rigorously judged global event.
The Estate White is sourced from the Somerset West estate's cooler, south-east-facing vineyards overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Elegant and refined with mineral overtones, it is dominated by notes of lemon, crushed rosemary and fresh apple.
This outstanding wine has already been awarded 95 points by leading wine and lifestyle publication Decanter, 94 points by British wine master Tim Atkin, and 96 points by local publication
South African wine estates have brought home 23 gold IWC medals this year, up from 15 gold medals in 2024. South Africa has also been ranked seventh among 15 top wine-producing countries in 2025, based on medals won.
France remains the number one wine-producing country, but the latest IWC results have sent shockwaves through the industry, as bold 'new world' wines from South Africa, Australia and New Zealand challenge the long-standing dominance of the 'old world.'
IWC owner Chris Ashton says: 'When you put wines from over 35 countries head to head and get them blind tasted by nearly 250 of the world's best palates, the results can be truly eye-opening.'
Vergelegen MD Wayne Coetzer says: 'We are extremely proud that our Estate White has won an IWC trophy, one of the highest honours in the global wine industry. This accolade is a powerful testament to the passion, knowledge, and relentless pursuit of excellence by our entire team, from vineyard to cellar.
'I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to our viticulturists, winemakers, and support staff. This achievement belongs to all of you.'
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