The wines were judged blind, using the international 100 point system. The 5-person panel consisted of Christine Rudman (Chairperson); Michael Bampfield-Duggan; Greg Mutambe; Samarie Smith and Malu Lambert.
They were given no indication of origin or vintage, or whether then wines were oaked. No discussion was permitted during the tasting, with a general report of overall impressions taking place afterwards. The tasting was audited by Cecil Kilpin & Company.
The high number of gold medals awarded (75 %) reflect the quality of the entries. According to Christine Rudman, the panel particularly approved of the wide variety of styles, from fragrant and elegantly charming, to food-friendly and fresh, to bold and impressive. Viognier’s different personalities as reflected in this tasting made it an attractive alternative to other white varieties.
The wines were all dry and mainly from the 2020 vintage.
Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek and Western Cape dominated the origins.
GOLD MEDALS
Alvi's Drift Signature Viognier 2020
Arendsig 1000 Vines Viognier 2020
De Grendel Viognier 2020
Idiom Viognier 2018
Idiom Viognier 2019
Jail Break Viognier 2019
La Petite Ferme Viognier 2020
Leipzig Viognier 2020
Lowerland Witgat Viognier 2020
Lynx Viognier 2020
Mellasat Viognier 2018
Mitre's Edge Viognier 2020
MyWyn Single Barrel Viognier 2020
Painted Wolf Penny Viognier 2018
Ridgeback Viognier 2020
The Drift Mary le Bow Viognier 2019
The Fledge & Co Elgin Reserve Viognier 2020
