Presented by Sauvignon Blanc South Africa in partnership with title partner FNB and platinum partner Ever Solutions, this annual benchmark offers producers a focused platform to highlight the quality, as well as the stylistic and regional diversity, of local Sauvignon Blanc.

New convenor highlights strategic benefit for producers

Dr Carien Coetzee, oenologist and experienced Sauvignon Blanc judge, takes the lead as the new panel convenor. She believes the value for producers is clear: “This competition showcases the full depth and diversity of South African Sauvignon Blanc, from regional character to stylistic diversity and ageability. Each year, we see both younger and older vintages excel across wooded, unwooded and innovative expressions.”

Coetzee says the benefits of a Top 10 spot extend far beyond recognition: “Feedback from past achievers highlights the credibility and commercial value of the FNB Top 10 status. It enhances a producer’s reputation, boosts both sales and price positioning, and gives winemakers a clear benchmark to work towards.”

Joining Coetzee on the panel to assess entries from 26 to 28 August at Bontevlei, Stellenbosch, are distinguished judges and winemakers: Dr Winifred Bowman CWM, Morgan Steyn of De Grendel Wines, Praisy Dlamini of Adama Wines, and Juandre Bruwer of Diemersdal Wine Estate, as well as two protégé judges, Liezl Richards of Gabriëlskloof Wines and Lauren Segers-Jewell of Wine Cellar.

The 20 finalists will be announced in September, with the Top 10 revealed on Wednesday 15 October at the prestigious FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 awards event.

How to enter:

  • Enter online: com/top10-entry
  • Entry fee: R1600 (members) / R2100 (non-members)
  • Deadline: Tuesday 12 August 2025
  • Late entries (higher fee): accepted until 19 August 2025

For enquiries, visit www.sauvignonblanc.com, email [email protected] or call 082 808 1114.