Paarl estate KWV Laborie has reigned supreme at this year’s Amorim Cap Classique Challenge, securing the title of Best Wine on Show with its Laborie Blanc de Blancs 2020. This achievement marks a significant milestone, as it is the third time the estate’s Blanc de Blancs has been crowned the overall winner in the competition’s 25-year history, following similar honours in 2005 and 2023.
The awards ceremony, held at La Petite Colombe on Leeu Estates in Franschhoek, celebrated the 25th anniversary of the competition, which was established in 2002 by the Portuguese cork company Amorim in collaboration with WINE Magazine. The event has evolved into a vital showcase for South Africa’s Cap Classique sparkling wine category, and this year’s instalment featured 138 entries spanning categories such as Brut Blends, Blanc de Blancs, Nectar, Rosé, and Extended Ageing.
Beyond Laborie’s top honour, other producers showcased exceptional craftsmanship. Domaine des Dieux distinguished itself by winning two categories: the Best Brut Blend for its Claudia Brut 2021 and the Best Rosé for its Rose of Sharon Rosé 2017. The Nectar category was claimed by Krone Night Nectar Blanc de Blanc 2021, while the Extended Ageing class trophy was awarded to the Pieter Ferreira Blanc de Blancs 2015.
Speaking at the event, Amorim Cork Chairman António Amorim reflected on the enduring connection between cork and sparkling wine, a history that dates back to the company’s origins in 1870. Amorim noted that while global wine volumes have seen a decline, the sparkling wine category has shown remarkable resilience. He further emphasised that South Africa’s Cap Classique is gaining international recognition as a serious challenger, distinguished not by a few standout producers, but by the consistent quality maintained across the entire industry.
For more detailed results from the event, you can view the 2026 Challenge Press Release.
