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Mulderbosch Vineyards sits in a little valley on the Polkadraai Road in the western part of the Stellenbosch Wine Appellation.The grapes for the Mulderbosch Chardonnay 2017 come from a variety of Stellenbosch sites from those close to False Bay which benefit from the cooling breezes ameliorating summer heat in the vineyards, to those in Polkadraai and a portion from the Bottelary Hills, well known as an area which produces great wines. 

We’ve revealed the Top 100 of 2017! Each year, Wine Spectator editors survey the wines reviewed over the previous 12 months and select our Top 100, based on quality, value, availability and excitement. This annual list honors successful wineries, regions and vintages around the world. 

The South African wine industry is experiencing one of its most exciting phases in history. Overall, wine quality has increased dramatically over the past five years, international recognition is at an all-time high and the consumer is now spoilt for choice, with a wealth of new producers, varieties and styles.

2017 has without a doubt been a stellar year for Paul Cluver Wines, securing accolades both locally and nationally for its excellent range of wines. 

The latest being a prestigious 5-star rating in the Platter’s by Diners Club South African Wine Guide 2018, for the Paul Cluver Close Encounter Riesling 2016. What makes this award so significant is that it was the only Riesling to be awarded a 5-star.

Anthonij Rupert Wine in Franschhoek produces a collection of seven wines which recognises the flower species – the Protea. The Protea is distinctive of the Cape Floristic region, the world’s smallest yet most abundant floristic region.

The Protea range marries the old with the new. Bringing the heritage of the vines, together with distinctive packaging designs.

Chicken pie is such a tradition in South Africa and this recipe from our Cape Winelands Cuisine cookbook is for an old Cape version made with ham, hard-boiled eggs and salted preserved lemons. 

Try this recipe for a delicious Cape Chicken Pie and serve it with the La Motte Chardonnay 2016.

“As the grapes grow in a vineyard surrounded by plants such as wild herbs, flowers and grasses, the bees fly around the vineyard distributing pollen, and as the grapes ripen they absorb the subtle flavour characteristics from these plants.” 

The Veritas awards recognise excellence in wine and brandy in South Africa. It's the longest running, and most prestigious wine and brandy competition in South Africa dating back to 1991. The 2017 results were announced at the annual gala dinner on Friday 6th of October.

Find the complete list of medal winners here.

Tim Atkins has released the 2017 South Africa Special report. The comprehensive review of the South African wine industry can be purchased on the Tim Atkins website.