After reviewing a total of 590 wines over the course of 2022, Wine magazine has officially named Franschhoek’s hidden gem, Wildeberg, Winery of the Year.
Despite the serious competition, the estate’s Wildeberg Semillon White 2021 was rated best in its category with a score of 94.
Also read: Welcome to Wildeberg; the wild mountain winery in Franschhoek
Another five of its wines made the Top 10:
- The Wildeberg Red 2021 (96 points)
- Coterie by Wildeberg Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc 2020 (94 points)
- Coterie by Wildeberg Grenache/Syrah 2021 (94 points)
- Coterie by Wildeberg Chenin Blanc/Grenache Blanc 2021 (91 points)
- The humble Tea Leaf 2021 (91 points).
JD Rossouw, a winemaker at Wildeberg, said, “We are delighted by this fantastic recognition for our winemaking team, as well as for all the amazing vineyard partners who make it happen each year. Without their hard work and attention to detail, we would be just another bottle at the table!”
JD was appointed winemaker in 2017, harvesting just 50 tonnes of fruit in that first vintage. While 10 hectares of Chardonnay, Semillon, Petite Sirah, and Syrah were planted the next year, it will be a while before the vineyards are old enough to give him and his team the purity and character that are the hallmarks of Wildeberg wine.
With a newly minted 350-tonne cellar now operational, Rossouw has the task of identifying great sites across the Western Cape in order to keep the space busy.
All six award-winning wines are currently available from the farm and at select retailers around the country.
Wildeberg
Located in the 350-year-old wine region and boasting an exceptional selection of wines, Wildeberg offers visitors mesmerising views they’ll never forget.
The winery, manor house, and farm cottage are all set up against the towering majesty that is Franschhoek Mountain, affectionately called “that wild mountain” by those who know her well.
Wine tastings “with a view” can be booked in advance, and somebody from our small team would love to show you around personally.
Details:
- Location: Verdun Road, Franschhoek.
- Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm | Saturday: 9am to 2pm | Sunday: Closed
- Contact: 082 895 4111
- Website: www.wildeberg.co.za
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Picture: Supplied