Tim Atkin South African Report 2024: A Perfect Score for South African Wine
The Tim Atkin South African Report 2024 has just been released and there's big news which makes me extremely proud! Atkin MW has awarded a perfect 100 points to a South African Chenin Blanc! Congratulations to Alheit Vineyards for their 2023 Nautical Dawn Chenin Blanc.
This single-origin, dry-farmed wine from old vines is making waves for its pure expression of place and vintage. Chris Alheit, the mastermind behind this 100-point Chenin Blanc, describes his approach as “zeroing out the winemaking.” By focusing on the vineyard rather than imposing a winemaking style. According to Tim Atkin, this humble approach results in a wine that’s as authentic as it gets—no frills, just pure, unadulterated quality.
South Africa's Finest Wines Get Their Due in Tim Atkin South African Report 2024
The Tim Atkin South African Report 2024 isn’t just about one standout wine. It’s a celebration of South Africa’s wine industry at large, recognising the remarkable efforts of local winemakers. Alongside Alheit Vineyards, other big names are also basking in the glory. Porseleinberg’s 2022 Syrah and Sadie Family’s 2022 Columella—a Syrah-driven blend—both scored an impressive 99 points. These Swartland wines share the title of Overall Red Wine of the Year, while Alheit’s Nautical Dawn takes the crown for Overall White Wine of the Year. It truly is really exciting news for the South African Wine industry!
Celebrating the People Behind the Wines
Tim Atkin didn’t just stop at awarding the wines themselves; he’s also shining a light on the people making them. Callie Louw of Porseleinberg earned the title of Winemaker of the Year, while the Young Winemaker of the Year award went to Stephanie Wiid of Thistle & Weed. Wiid is known for her work with Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc, including the 2023 Brandnetel, which scored an impressive 96 points.
And let’s not forget the legends. Günter Brözel, who made his mark at Nederburg and brought international acclaim to South African wines, was honoured as the Winemaking Legend of 2024. Now 90, Brözel’s influence on the industry remains profound.
Congratulations to these winemakers for their outstanding recognition!
Viticulture Excellence and the Importance of Diversity
Bosman Family Vineyards took home the Viticulturist of the Year award in the Tim Atkin South African Report 2024, a nod to their significant contributions to the South African wine industry. Their efforts in improving plant material and promoting drought-resistant varieties are just part of why they’re leading the way in viticulture.
Tim Atkin’s report also highlights the increasing diversity in South African vineyards. With 111 grape varieties now considered suitable for wine production, the country’s wine scene is more vibrant and diverse than ever. Atkin praises the precision and innovation he sees in vineyards across the country, from careful pruning to new research into how to cope with climate extremes.
The Best of the Best: 2024's Top Wines
Here’s a look at the other top wines that made it to the podium in the Tim Atkin South African Report 2024:
Overall Rosé of the Year: 2023 Terblanche Family Vineyards Elmie Rosé, Stellenbosch
Overall Sparkling Wine of the Year: 2018 Graham Beck Cuvée Clive Cap Classique, Western Cape
Overall Sweet Wine of the Year: 2021 Klein Constantia Vin de Constance, Constantia
Overall Fortified Wine of the Year: 2022 Boplaas Cape Vintage Reserve, Calitzdorp
And if you’re looking for something new and exciting:
Red Wine Discovery of the Year: 2021 Fairview Lanner Hill Syrah, Darling
White Wine Discovery of the Year: 2023 Kruger Family Wines Karoo Chardonnay, Sutherland
Rosé Wine Discovery of the Year: NV Vinevenom Shining Rosé No. 2, Swartland
Sparkling Wine Discovery of the Year: 2016 Villiera Pithos CC, Stellenbosch
A Bright Future for South African Wine
The Tim Atkin South African Report 2024 is more than just a list of scores. The South African Wine Industry can be extremely proud to be internationally recognised. With a focus on authenticity, innovation, and diversity, the future of our country’s wine industry looks brighter than ever. What a time to be part of such an incredible wine industry!
If you want to dive into all the details, you can purchase the full Tim Atkin South African Report 2024 on Tim Atkin’s website.
