Best in wine tourism crowned at Klink Awards after record-breaking votes

In a record-breaking year, 8,506 more votes were received than in previous year. The 13 categories ranged from wine estates that provide unforgettable food to wine-tastings with a twist, game-viewing, or simply naturistic views of vineyards, and a 14th award for the finalist that received the most overall votes from consumers – the SupaNova award.

The Klink Awards is the South African wine tourism industry’s only consumer-driven competition (determining the winners), with a one vote per person, per category rule. An exciting new category introduced this year was “Touring” - big and small touring companies were called upon in order to uncover the brightest gems of destinations, experiences, wine and food that are distinctively wine tourism.

Says Monika Elias, founder of the Klink Awards: “Our wine farms are without a doubt and unquestionably at a world-class standard, so it’s a great honour that we can acknowledge the outstanding contribution that they’re making to attract tourists from all over the world to South Africa, and provide them with the unique experience that each one offers. The winners should feel incredibly proud as they certainly competed against some very stiff competition. A heartfelt congratulations to all the winners from us at Wine Tourism South Africa.”

The 2017 Klink Awards winners are:

Best Winelands Burger:

A burger is not just a burger; it is a staple on any menu worth its salt. Whether it is as simple as the good old-fashioned beef variety or something with a twist, the quest was on to find the juiciest, yummiest burger created at a winery eating spot.

Winner - Beyerskloof

Wine Country Cuisine:

This category was selected for bistros, casual dining or café society in the Cape Winelands without all the fancy frills. The search was on for laidback venues, which showcase local and artisanal farm produce in the best possible way.

Winner – Leopard’s Leap

Great Pairings:

From biltong, nuts, dried fruits to cheese, chocolate, nougat and gourmet canapé tasting platters, all go down well with wine. The art is in finding the perfect match.

Winner – Creation Wines

Gourmet Traveller:

This category recognises gastronomic destinations with signature chefs who create cutting edge cuisine. Restaurants that pay great attention to detail in terms of an overall wine and food experience, have a great location, first-class service, a focus on artisanal and local Winelands produce, seasonal favourites and tasting menus which expertly pair food and wine.

Winner – The Kitchen at Maison

Out of the Ordinary:

A wild card is the most unusual and memorable attraction, something that offers a unique selling point for attracting wine tourists to the cellar door.

Winner – The Franschhoek Cellar

Boutique Cellars:

“Small production”, “artisanal” or even “cult”... boutique is more a state of mind than a number of bottles. It is more of an attitude than a location.

Winner – Hillcrest Estate

SA Wine Icon:

This category is for wineries that have invested time and passion into making quality wine. These icons are brands that have proven themselves both locally and internationally and have contributed to building SA wine culture.

Winner – Groot Constantia Wine Estate

Best Bubbly:

For breakfast, lunch… or actually, anytime. The search was on for an MCC that is out of this world, quirky and fun and the ultimate experience at a tasting room - the best to quaff, sip or savour.

Winner – Graham Beck

Great Outdoors:

A spectacularly scenic vineyard hike, a challenging wine farm bike trail, a spirited wine route horse ride or something a little more challenging, a taste of adventure to a Winelands offering was what this category was all about.

Winner – Waterford Estate

Events and Festivals:

An event, festival, or winery event, which draws visitors and helps to build a regional wine brand or market a specific wine route destination.

Winner – Robertson Wine on the River

On The Hop:

There's something of a craft beer evolution in South Africa. With around 130 craft breweries, it is no wonder that beer adds a unique style, pair-ability with cured meats and cheeses, and a complementary relationship with wine.

Winner – Darling Brew

Touring:

A new addition to our categories. Touring companies were called upon – big and small – in order to uncover the brightest gems of destinations, experiences, wine and food that are distinctively wine tourism.

Winner – City Sightseeing Wine Tour

The Ultimate Winelands Experience:

This is the perfect package. One that successfully seduces, not just with a tasting experience, but also with the ambiance to match. Architecture, furnishings, lighting, sound, temperature and kinetics, which combine in different ways to enhance the brand experience of their customers.

Winner – Groot Constantia Wine Estate

Supanova:

This award went to the Klink finalist with the most overall consumer votes.

Winner – Hillcrest Estate