Five South African vineyards have been named in the top 100 at the World’s Best Vineyards Awards 2023.
Creation in Walker Bay, South Africa, was named the fourth best wine farm in the world – also being named the best vineyard in Africa.
Swiss winemaker JC Martin and his South African wife Carolyn founded the farm in 2002, with the first harvest taking place in 2006.
The cool climate allows for the farm to produce red, white, sparkling and fortified wines, with a particular focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
The awards said that the farm’s restaurant offers seasonal, locally sourced and healthy food in its à la carte menu (with small plate or multi-course options) and eccentric food pairings like its popular chocolate experience.
It also features a solar-powered self-catering cottage, Voormanhuis, which comes with mountain bikes in tow.
Klein Constantia in Cape Town also made the top 50, coming 32nd.
The awards said that the farm produces some of the finest wines, such as the sweet ‘Vin de Constance’, which brought the region fame.
“The traditional Cape Dutch homestead is contrasted by a contemporary winery designed by celebrated architect Gawie Fagan, which was refreshed in 2018 and now boasts a light-filled tasting studio and restaurant,” the awards said.
“With jacaranda trees hanging overhead, food at The Bistro puts a European spin on South African cuisine, proudly using fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients – the perfect accompaniment to the famous Vin de Constance.”
Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch was a few places behind in 36th.
“Set against the stunning backdrop of the vineyards and mountains of Stellenbosch, Delaire-Graff Estate offers a quintessentially South African luxury wine experience. Scattered among its gardens are exclusive boutiques, elegant restaurants and original artworks,” the awards said.
Red, white, rosé, sparkling and dessert wines are all made on the farm, which sits on the Helshoogte Pass, allowing vines to benefit from both mountain and maritime influences,
The estate also offers lodges with their own private deck and pool – some also come with their own private garden.
Meanwhile, two other vineyards made the top 100, with Benguela Cove in Walker Bay and Tokara Winery in Stellenbosch coming 53rd and 94th, respectively.
International rankings
Overall, Catena Zapata in Argentina was named the best vineyard in the world.
The list noted that the vineyard focusses on red, white and speaking wine, and focuses on single terroir and high-altitude blends, notably Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Interestingly, the winey is shaped like a pyramid, which is inspired by Mayan temples.
The top 10 in the world can be found below:
1. Catena Zapata, Argentina
2. Bodegas de los Herederos del Marqués de Riscal, Spain
3. Vik, Chile
4. Creation, South Africa
5. Château Smith Haut Lafitte, France
6. Bodega Garzón, Uruguay
7. Montes, Chile
8. Schloss Johannisberg, Germany
9. Bodegas Salentein, Argentina
10. El Enemigo Wines, Argentina
