Rietvallei Shines Again at the 2025 National Wine Challenge

We’re raising our glasses in celebration — and with good reason. The 2025 results from the prestigious National Wine Challenge have just been released and we’re proud to share that six of our wines have been recognised, including a Grand Cru National Champion Best in Class!

A Champion Among Champions

Leading the accolades is our beloved Rietvallei 1908 Muscadel 2021, which has once again proven its timeless excellence by claiming:

• Grand Cru National Champion Best in Class
• Top 100 & Double Platinum Award

Crafted from the oldest red Muscadel vineyard in South Africa, planted in 1908, this wine continues to tell a remarkable story of heritage, quality and dedication to the craft.

Double Platinum Successes

Joining our Muscadel on the Top 100 list with Double Platinum awards are:

• Rietvallei Chardonnay 2023
• Rietvallei Estéanna Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc 2019
• Rietvallei JMB Cabernet Franc 2019

Each of these wines reflects the diversity and finesse of our terroir, and we are so pleased they stood out amongst such strong competition.

Double Gold Recognition

We're also celebrating Double Gold wins for:

• Rietvallei Calcrete Chardonnay 2024
• Rietvallei Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

These wines showcase the balance, complexity, and drinkability we strive for in every vintage — and it's incredibly rewarding to see them recognised on a national stage.

What Makes These Wins So Special?

The National Wine Challenge is widely regarded as South Africa’s premier competition for fine wines. Now in its 15th year, it is known for its rigorous judging standards and for attracting the best of the best from across the country.

In 2025, entries came from across all wine styles — red, white, rosé, MCC, and fortified — and the competition was tougher than ever. Only 10.9% of red wines and 5.5% of white wines earned Top 100 status, while just 1.2% of sweet/fortified wines like Muscadel made the cut. That makes our 1908 Muscadel's Grand Cru title even more significant.

The judging panel praised the diversity, precision, and consistency of this year’s entries. Most winning wines scored between 91 and 93 points, with only a handful reaching the 94–95 point band. To win was not easy — and that’s what makes it meaningful.

As Robin von Holdt, founder of the NWC, notes:
“These wines were made to be enjoyed – and being fine, they are going to be!”

A Toast to Our Team

Behind every accolade is a dedicated team — from vineyard to cellar to tasting room. These awards are a celebration of the hard work, long hours, and passion poured into each bottle. It’s also a nod to our loyal customers and wine lovers who share in this journey with us.