Cape Classics scoops Importer of the Year at Wine Star Awards
Wine Enthusiast Magazine has named South African and French wine importer, Cape Classics, as the 2018 Wine Star Award winner for Importer of the Year. In announcing the nomination, the magazine conveyed that Cape Classics has a focus on quality and are meticulous in their portfolio selection, choosing to work with family-run farms that embrace sustainable, ecological and social practices.
Robert Bradshaw and Andre Shearer from Cape Classics.
Based in New York and with offices in Somerset West, Cape Classics was co-founded more than 25 years ago by André Shearer and his brother Gary, shortly after trade between the U.S. and South Africa resumed following the end of apartheid. André was driven to introduce the U.S. market to the finest South African wines with a focus on premium, independent producers.
Robert Bradshaw, president and COO of Cape Classics commented, “there is so much to celebrate in this moment. From the gifted and committed families that produce the wines we sell from both South Africa and France, to our incredible team, to our deep commitment to authentic relationships, and doing things the old-fashioned way - this win is a validation of our corporate values.”
Today, the Cape Classics seal is stamped on 25% of all South African wine available in the U.S., and is the largest player in the South African wine import business. In 2013, Cape Classics expanded its portfolio to include wines from France, a natural extension due to the many historical and stylistic synergies the two regions share. In addition, Cape Classics produces its own wines under the Indaba Wines, Jam Jar and Braai labels.
Each year Wine Enthusiast Magazine honours the individuals and companies that made outstanding achievements over the past year in the wine and alcoholic beverage world, across 16 categories including Innovator of the Year, Winemaker of the Year and Wine Region of the Year. This is the magazines 19th Annual Wine Star Awards. Winners will be honoured at a black-tie gala in Miami on 28 January 2019.
