Absa Top 20 Pinotage finalists unveiled for the 2024 Pinotage competition

This annual competition, proudly sponsored by Absa Bank, showcases the best of South African Pinotage wines, celebrating the dedication and artistry of the country's winemakers.

The Pinotage Association, committed to promoting and advancing the unique Pinotage varietal, is proud to continue its partnership with Absa Bank. The bank's unwavering commitment to supporting the South African wine industry has been a driving force behind the success of the Top 10 Pinotage competition for many years.

This year’s competition saw an impressive array of entries, highlighting the rich diversity and heritage of South African winemaking. With 112 entries representing 65 distinguished brand names, the competition showcased the true essence of our viticultural regions. The wines entered span 29 unique Wine of Origin areas, reflecting the variety and depth that Pinotage has to offer.

The Stellenbosch region led the entries with a strong representation of 57 wines, followed by Paarl with 21 wines. Other notable contributions came from Robertson (6 wines), Swartland (5 wines), Breedekloof/Worcester (5 wines), and several other prominent areas, ensuring that the competition was a broad representation of South Africa’s wine-growing excellence.

This year’s entries brought a fascinating mix of vintages to the table. The selection ranged from youthful one-year-old wines to a venerable twelve-year-old entry. Specifically, the competition featured 7 one-year-old wines, 49 two-year-old wines, 37 three-year-old wines, 12 four-year-old wines, 3 five-year-old wines, 2 six-year-old wines, 1 seven-year-old wine, and 1 remarkable twelve-year-old wine.

As you embark on this tasting journey, we invite you to explore the diverse profiles and stories behind each of these top 20 Pinotage wines. Each glass is not just a testament to the skill and passion of our winemakers but also a celebration of Pinotage as a proudly South African cultivar. Enjoy the journey through these wines and discover the unique characteristics that make each one special.