The SA Wine & Cellar Classifications, updated annually since 2004, are based on the top ratings by the most respected panels locally and internationally when it comes to assessing the quality and interest value of market-ready wines (no tank or barrel samples) in a ‘blind tasting’ environment – the identities of the wines and their producers withheld so as to avoid positive or negative bias in terms of brand status, the origin of the grapes and the location of the cellars. For the most highly rated SA wine producers in the Hall of Fame, see below. For South Africa’s Best of the Best most highly rated wines over the past 10 years, click here, and for the full Classifications, click here. For the Classification according to where in the Cape winelands the most highly rated cellars are located, click here. For info about the top wine panels, click here, and for their latest reviews, click here.

Ratings by individual critics do not have a bearing on the Classifications, and nor to the results of certain questionable wine competitions. Depending on the number of vintages for which the wines receive top accolades and the nature of the accolades, the very best track records are highlighted in showcasing which of South Africa’s wines are most highly fancied year in and year out.

For a pdf of the full 2026 SA Wine & Cellar Classifications together with more information regarding eligibility for selection and the ranking system, click here to print or download.