Photo: A Gorman Photography
This year was the association’s fifth Shiraz Challenge, where 220 wines competed for inclusion on the top tier.
According to Shiraz SA chairperson, Edmund Terblanche, there had been a steady increase in entries since the competition’s induction in 2013.
“Initially we focused only on Shiraz, but soon after we invited winemakers to also put forward their best blends, as we see this competition as an encompassing celebration of Shiraz,” he says. “We’ve witnessed consistent growth in the blends category, not only for the Rhône style, but also for all compositions where Shiraz remains the leading component.”
The top Shiraz wines were:
Cederberg Shiraz 2015
D’Aria The Soprano Shiraz 2015
Eagle’s Nest Shiraz 2014
Fairview Beacon Shiraz 2014
Fairview Swartland Shiraz 2014
Flagstone Dark Horse Shiraz 2013
KWV Cathedral Cellar Shiraz 2015
La Motte Pierneef Syrah Viognier 2015
Rustenberg Buzzard Kloof Syrah 2015
Saronsberg Shiraz 2015
Strandveld Syrah 2013
Wildekrans Barrel Select Reserve Shiraz 2015
In the Shiraz blends division, Bellingham, Rustenberg and Saronsberg were announced the top blends.
