As the year draws to a close it is time for a different kind of harvest. It is the time when wineries have the opportunity to gain recognition from national and international competitions for the hard work and dedication that goes into every bottle of wine.

Rietvallei prides itself on a heritage of quality and innovation, so it will come as no surprise that this family wine estate has harvested several awards in the last few months. The awards harvest started in July, at the 2018 Novare SA Terroir Wine Awards, when the JMB Cabernet Franc 2015 was selected as the top Cabernet Franc in South Africa.

This was followed by and excellent showing at the 2018 Gold Wine Awards, where the Rietvallei John B range collected four gold medals for the John B Brut Bubbly, John B Pink Bubbly, John B Rosé and John B Sauvignon Blanc.

At the 2018 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards Rietvallei rounded up yet another four gold medals with the JMB Cabernet Franc 2014, JMB Chardonnay 2017, Dark Cin (Cinsaut) 2016 and the Estéanna Red 2015. These wines are included in the Rietvallei Heritage Collection, a selection of special, limited edition wines.

Rietvallei continued their gold harvest at the 2018 Veritas Awards for the estate’s flagship white wine, the Estéanna White (a blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc). To round it off, the Rietvallei Sauvignon Blanc 2018 was selected as runner-up at the FNB Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 competition, proudly adding its name to the top 20 list.

The accolades achieved by Rietvallei during this season’s awards harvest illustrates the broad range of consistently excellent and highly drinkable wines created by this family-owned wine estate.