A total of 1 783 potential stars from the 2017 vintage are currently competing for gold medals and trophies at this year’s SA Young Wine Show at the Nederberg Auction Complex in Paarl.

The SA Young Wine Show is now in its 185th year and is one of the world’s oldest wine competitions, dating back to 1833. Wines compete for 17 trophies in several classes, with only one wine ultimately crowned as the overall champion young wine of the year – this wine is awarded the Generaal Smuts Trophy. The Pietman Hugo Trophy will be awarded to the cellar with the highest overall points for entries in five classes.

The Chenin Blanc class received the most entries this year (161), followed by Shiraz (157), Any Red Cultivar Blend (149), Sauvignon Blanc (133) and Pinotage (118). In total, 17 SA Young Wine trophies are at stake for Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Sémillon, Other White Cultivars, Dry White Blends, Off-dry White Wines and Noble Late Harvest. In the red wine classes, trophies are awarded for the best Pinotage, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Other Red Cultivars and Dry Red Blends. Fortified classes include trophies for excellent Port, Dessert Wine and Muscadel.

Winners will be announced at the 2017 Young Wine Show Gala-dinner, presented by the Worcester/Breedekloof region at Goudini Spa on Friday 25 August.

For more information, contact the SA National Wine Show office at 021 863 1599 or e-mail [email protected]. To stay in touch via social media, use www.facebook.com/SouthAfricanYoungWineShow, www.twitter.com/SAYoungWine or #SAYWS2017.