The FNB Top Ten Sauvignon Blancs were revealed yesterday at a gala lunch at Nitida Wine Farm. Chosen from a shortlist of 20 published last month, amongst the noteworthy achievements were:
• Clos Malverne in for the second year running with the same wine.
• Simonsig making their first venture into the world of Sauvignon Blanc awards having already proved their worth in various other wine categories over the years.
• Du Toitskloof achieving Top Ten with a R30 wine of which 2.2 million litres is made every year
Having tasted all 20, I would say these are mostly worthy winners although I, and quite a few others, was surprised not to see Saronsberg make the final 10.
Favourite wine from the Top Ten was probably the most expensive – the MM Louw from Diemersdal – but if my bank manager only allows me to drink Du Toitskloof this summer, I shall be a happy Cathy indeed.
The 2012 winners (7 from the 2012 vintage and 3 from 2011) are:
Clos Malverne 2011
De Morgenzon DMZ 2012
Diemersdal MM Louw 2011
Driehoek 2012
Du Toitskloof 2012
Groote Post 2012
Lomond Pincushion 2011
Neethlingshof Single Vineyard 2012
Simonsig Sunbird 2012
Virgin Earth Pepper Tree 2012