A glass of red wine placed next to a bunch of fresh grapes on a textured surface, with a dark background.
A 2022 Merlot from Steenberg Vineyards has been named “Merlot of the Year” at the International London Wine Competition, highlighting South Africa’s growing influence in the global wine market. The contest was judged blind by industry professionals who evaluated taste, value, and shelf appeal in much the same way as consumers would. The award-winning wine, produced in the Constantia region, one of the oldest wine-producing areas in the Southern Hemisphere, features layered notes of plum, raspberry, spice, and subtle oak, and is designed to age for up to seven years. The recognition underscores the Western Cape’s reputation for high-quality yet accessible wines, as global demand for premium South African vintages continues to rise.
IOL