In the most recent July issue of Wine Spectator, James Molesworth, senior editor and lead taster focused on ‘South Africa’s bold expressions of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin blanc’. This article comes a year after his last article “At A Crossroads” in July 2013.

Not surprising, Molesworth comments on the increasing popularity of South African wines indicated by a 26 percent increase in worldwide exports in 2013.  The plus points that make SA wines so attractive are the diverse range of red and white varietals planted in both cool- and warm-climate viticultural areas and the overall moderate pricing.

In the past South Africa has been recognised for mainly its leading white wines, but in this report the reds are leading the way with Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon at the forefront.  Below we have depicted the top scoring wines that we represent at Wine Cellar:In the past year, Molesworth reviewed 380 wines of which more than one-third of the wines rated 90 points or higher and nearly 90% of the wines achieved ratings of 85 points or higher, indicating a significant increase in overall quality and especially a surge of the quality in the middle rungs.

Top Cabernet Sauvignon:

• De Trafford Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch 2009 (94 points, $45)
• Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch Vineyard Selection 2010 (94, $97)

Top Syrah/ Syrah blends:

• De Trafford Syrah Stellenbosch 393 2010 (94, $80)
• Rust en Vrede 1694 Classification Stellenbosch 2009 (94, $128)
• Sadie Family Columella Swartland 2011 (94, $130) blends Syrah with Mourvèdre

Top white blend:

• The Sadie Family Palladius Swartland 2011 (93, $105)

Stocks of some of these wines, can be viewed on our website.