Finalists chosen for 2018 Perold/ Absa Cape Blend

©Sergii Kumer via 123RF_red wine

Since its inception in 2011, the competition has grown in stature with winemakers using the opportunity to present their take on South African combinations using Pinotage as the key component.

Judging panel convener Jacques Roux indicated that it is always interesting to see how winemakers express themselves by creating distinctive South African red blends. He added that it is enjoyable to assess these premium wines from winemakers with different approaches to their craft.

Finalists include:

• Anura Signature Cape Cuveé 2015 - WO Paarl: Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz

• Beyerskloof Faith 2015 - WO Stellenbosch: Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

• Blake’s Amethyst 2016 - WO Swartland: Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Petit Verdot

• KWV Abraham Perold Tributum 2014 - WO Coastal: Shiraz, Pinotage, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Sirah

• Leipzig Master Blend 2017 - WO Western Cape: Pinotage, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

• Lyngrove Platinum Latitude 2016 - WO Stellenbosch: Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Shiraz

• Pulpit Rock Louisa Reserve 2014 - WO Swartland: Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Petit Verdot

• Pulpit Rock Louisa Reserve 2015 - WO Swartland: Pinotage, Shiraz, Petit Verdot

• Wellington Wines – La Cave Cape Blend 2016 - WO Wellington: Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz

• Wildekrans Cape Blend Barrel Select Reserve 2015 - WO Botrivier: Pinotage, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir

The five winners will be announced at an award function on 30 August 2018 at Lanzerac Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.