South Africans are spoilt for choice with amazing wineries across the country. The Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch has won international recognition by being named the best Winery in Africa in the 2020 World’s Best Vineyards awards.
The World’s Best Vineyards awards are to honour the best in modern wine tourism across the globe. The nominees are chosen by a Voting Academy representing more than 500 wine experts from around the world. While there is no predetermined criteria , judges consider all aspects connected to a vineyard visit like the tour, the tasting, the architecture, the view, the food and, of course, the wine.
“The 2020 list covers five continents and 18 countries, with 17 new names featuring. Some are famous – the must-visit places in the world’s best-loved wine regions. Some, on the other hand, will inspire you to explore a new region. New destinations on the list include Japan, Bulgaria and India!” reads the awards website.
“The diversity of the Top 50 is incredible. There are modern architectural wonders, UNESCO-protected ancient cellars, Michelin-starred restaurants, and small, family-run wineries where the owners conduct the tours.
“Many of the wineries on the list also offer something a little different – such as a horse-drawn vintage carriage tour through the vineyard, tapas amid a collection of beautifully restored classic cars, art from the likes of Pablo Picasso, and lessons in cooking on an open fire. The choice is yours.
“Delaire Braff came out top in the continent, and is also ranked 14th in the world. Stand out points include the flawless views across the Banghoek Valley and the flavour-packed Asian tapas at Indochine restaurant.
“They really know how to do idyllic landscapes in the Cape Winelands. South Africa’s leading wine, hospitality and art destination, Delaire Graff Estate – aka ‘the Jewel’ of said Winelands – is almost too perfect. Situated under the peak of the Botmaskop mountain between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, the estate boasts unparalleled views of the Banghoek Valley, Stellenbosch vineyards and Table Mountain – and plenty more besides,” write the judges.
“Delaire Graff Estate has been named the best winery in Africa, and number 14 within the world, in the 2020 World’s Best Vineyards awards,” the estate wrote on Instagram. “We are proud to play a leading role in the creation of world-class experiences for our local and international visitors. Indochine received special mention for the ‘dazzling and sophisticated experience’ offered.”
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View this post on Instagram
The top 20 is as follows:
1. Zuccardi Valle de Uco – Argentina
2. Bodega Garzón – Uruguay
3. Domäne Wachau – Austria
4. Montes – Chile
5. Robert Mondavi Winery – California
6. Marqués de Riscal – Spain
7. Château Smith Haut Lafitte – France
8. Quinta do Crasto – Portugal
9. Antinori nel Chianti Classico – Italy
10. Viña Vik – Chile
11. Catena Zapata – Argentina
12. Schloss Johannisburg – Germany
13. Rippon – New Zealand
14. Delaire Graff Estate – South Africa
15. Weingut Dr. Loosen – Germany
16. Ridge Vineyards, Monte Bello – United States
17. Craggy Range – New Zealand
18. Gonzalez Byass — Bodegas Tio Pepe – Spain
19. Château Pichon Baron – France
20. Opus One Winery – California
Picture: Instagram / Delaire Graff Estate
