Kleine Zalze Wines from Stellenbosch showcased an outstanding performance at this year’s Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, one of the world’s most prestigious wine competitions. The winery secured a Grand Gold medal and three Gold medals, marking a significant achievement in the international wine arena.
The Grand Gold medal was awarded to Kleine Zalze’s Family Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2022. Additionally, Gold medals were earned by the Vineyard Selection Chardonnay 2023, Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, and Vineyard Selection Syrah 2021. This impressive collection of accolades positions Kleine Zalze as one of South Africa’s most successful producers at the 2024 Concours Mondial. This year’s competition, held in Leon, Mexico, saw over 7,500 wines from 42 countries judged by 350 leading experts.
Carina Gous, General Manager of Kleine Zalze Wines, highlighted that the winery’s success underscores its dedication to producing a diverse range of high-quality wines originating from various terroir-sites in Stellenbosch and the Western Cape. “Kleine Zalze’s achievements with a variety of grape cultivars reflect the uniqueness of the Cape winelands,” she said. “The region’s geographical diversity allows us to produce wines of internationally recognized excellence.”
Kleine Zalze’s cellarmaster, RJ Botha, attributed their success to sourcing the best fruit from Stellenbosch and other regions, along with innovative winemaking techniques. “I am honored to see Kleine Zalze recognized internationally for our diverse wines—Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Chardonnay,” Botha remarked. “Producing quality wines from such different grape varieties is a privilege, enabled by the Cape’s unique geography.”
Botha emphasized their commitment to showcasing varietal purity and terroir expression. “In the cellar, we strive for purity in varietal expression through techniques like whole-bunch pressing, skin-contact fermentation, and aging in concrete and amphorae, alongside traditional methods using French oak,” he explained. “We harness every aspect to craft wines that express their specific variety, sense of place, and the reputation of our brand.”
The awards at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles not only highlight Kleine Zalze’s excellence but also bring recognition to the South African wine industry on an international stage.
