Local winemaker celebrated
Boutique winery Bouchard Finlayson in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley has triumphed at the second South African Wine Index (SAWI) awards held in Stellenbosch on 11 August.
The SAWI Grand trophy for the Top 2010 Wine Cellar went to Bouchard Finlayson for the second consecutive year, and winemaker Peter Finlayson was once again named Viticulturist of the Year.
“I am shaken but delighted by these fantastic results,” Finlayson said.
“It is a tribute to our dedicated team at the farm who work tirelessly in search of perfection. We have the Hemel-en-Aarde’s uniquely gentle climate and the cold ocean to thank for our quality grapes which make Burgundian-styled wines of excellence.
Last year, Bouchard Finlayson received the trophy for the wine of the Year, having handed the 96+ Club list with a score of 97,5% for the Galpin Peak Pinot Noir. This year, the Galpin Peak Pinot Noir won a SAWI Platinum Award with a perfect score of 100.
Another two wines – the Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal and the Bouchard Finlayson Kaaimansgat Chardonnay – also joined the 96+ Club at 99,20% and 97,63% respectively.
SAWI is a private initiative managed by several role players in the wine sector who have researched the field of wine judging and introduced and innovative way to express the quality of wines.
So far, more than 70% of South Africa’s leading wineries are represented on SAWI.
“The overall aim is to showcase South African wines and their standing amongst the best in the world,” said SAWI project director IZAK Smit.
Source: Hermanus Times