IWSC Global Judging in South Africa: Producer Trophy Announced

Fresh from our South African Global Judging session in June, Graham Beck has been awarded the prestigious IWSC South African Producer Trophy.

Graham Beck is a renowned name in South Africa’s wine industry, dedicated to crafting world-class Cap Classique sparkling wines. Their success at this year’s IWSC reflects both the excitement surrounding South African wines in general, and the strong performance of Cap Classique, which was one of the standout categories in this year’s competition.

“As a true leader in quality, an advocate for the industry, and a force in both domestic and export markets, Graham Beck was a natural choice for this year’s South African Producer Trophy. The award celebrates the most successful producer, considering not only competition results but also a producer’s wider impact,” said Christelle Guibert, IWSC CEO.

This year, Graham Beck entered five wines, achieving an impressive two Gold medals and three Silver medals, with an outstanding average score of 93.8 points.

Gold Medal Winners

Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs 2019 – Gold, 96 points This 100% Chardonnay, sourced from some of the estate’s oldest vines in Robertson’s limestone-rich soils, impressed our judges with its precision and clarity. George Young found “a very precise wine with extreme clarity and distinction.” Dr Winnie Bowman praised its “beautiful intense richness, impeccable balance, and smooth persistent mousse.”

Graham Beck Cuvée Clive 2019 – Gold, 97 points A Chardonnay-dominant wine that Graham Beck considered among the estate’s finest, the Cuvée Clive captivated our panel. David Kermode highlighted its “subtle, elegant and nuanced nose”, “delicate mid-palate complexity”, and “long, ethereal finish.” Kenny Nassen noted its layered flavours, including tea, spice, and ripe orchard fruits.

Silver Medal Winners

The remaining accolades, all Silver went to:

• Ultra Brut 2019
• Pinot Meunier 2022
• Pinot Noir Rosé 2019

The IWSC congratulates the entire Graham Beck team for their remarkable achievement in such a competitive field, further cementing their reputation as one of South Africa’s sparkling wine leaders.

Cape Wine 2025

Are you going to Cape Wine this September? Many of this year's IWSC South African winning wine producers are exhibiting at this year's event. To help visitors navigate the event, and discover some of South Africa's best wines with ease, we will be publishing a series of self guided wine trails. Look out for details of these in the coming weeks so you can download your copy before heading to the fair.