Cape Town, 12 October 2024 – KWV has solidified its position as a leader in the South African wine and spirits industry, winning Best Producer for the second consecutive year at the prestigious 34th Veritas Awards. The highlight of the evening was KWV’s triumph in securing the coveted Duimpie Bayly Veritas Vertex Trophy for its Cape Blend, The Mentors Perold 2020. This marks the second time KWV has claimed this top honour, having previously won with The Mentors Orchestra 2018.
In an unprecedented achievement, KWV Brandy outperformed the wine sector, earning six Double Gold medals, more than any winery achieved in their respective wine portfolios. KWV’s excellence was further underscored with three Double Gold and six Gold medals for its wines, amassing a total of 47 medals across its portfolio.
“This is truly exceptional,” said KWV CEO John Loomes. “The Veritas Awards represent the culmination of all our efforts, providing consumers with a powerful assurance of the consistency they can expect from KWV. For over 100 years, we have been synonymous with quality, and this recognition reinforces our commitment to that legacy. With KWV Brandy nearing its centenary, this historic performance sets a benchmark for the future.”
Often referred to as the “Oscars of the wine industry,” the Veritas Awards brought together South Africa’s finest wine and spirits producers. Winning the Vertex Trophy, which is awarded to the top wine out of over 1,265 entries, was a proud moment for KWV’s winemaking team, led by Chief Winemaker Justin Corrans and The Mentors Winemaker Izele van Blerk.
Reflecting on the win, Van Blerk said, “It’s an immense honour to receive the Duimpie Bayly Veritas Vertex Trophy for the second time. This award pays tribute to two legends of South African wine—Prof. Abraham Perold, the father of Pinotage, and Duimpie Bayly, a revered figure in our industry.”
The timing of this achievement was particularly fitting, as The Mentors Perold 2020 received the award on Pinotage Day, 12 October. “At KWV, we pursue excellence relentlessly, and The Mentors Perold 2020 is a testament to that pursuit,” added Van Blerk. “This blend, which began as a tribute to Prof. Perold in 2010, showcases our commitment to South Africa’s unique varietal, Pinotage.”
KWV Brandy’s historic performance at Veritas 2024 follows its recent success at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC), where it was named Brandy and Cognac Producer of the Year and awarded World’s Best Brandy. This further cements KWV’s reputation as the most awarded Cognac and Brandy brand globally.
“I’m incredibly proud of our distilling team,” said Master Distiller Pieter de Bod. “This milestone highlights our dedication to innovation and sets a new standard for South African brandy, which is now gaining remarkable global recognition. We’re excited to build on this momentum.”
A Year of Remarkable Success
KWV’s performance at Veritas 2024 caps off an impressive year. In September, KWV was named Best Producer South Africa at the 35th Mundus Vini Awards and also earned the title of Best Brandy and Cognac Producer at the ISC.
“Our focus has always been on raising the bar and delivering world-class wines and spirits,” said Corrans. “The accolades we’ve received this year reflect the high standards we set for ourselves and the exceptional experiences we aim to create for our consumers.”
Van Blerk concluded, “While we celebrate this achievement, we’re already looking forward to the next chapter—pushing the boundaries of innovation and exploration in winemaking as we strive for perfection.”
KWV’s Winning Results
KWV’s excellence was evident in the following Double Gold medal wins:
- Wine:
- KWV The Mentors Perold Pinotage/Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec 2021
- KWV The Mentors Perold 2020 (Vertex Trophy Winner)
- KWV Cathedral Cellar Triptych Red Blend 2021
- Brandy:
- KWV 5-Year-Old Superior Blend Brandy
- KWV 10-Year-Old Potstill Brandy
- KWV 12-Year-Old Potstill Brandy
- KWV XO Potstill Brandy
- KWV 15-Year-Old Alambic Blend Potstill Brandy
- KWV 20-Year XX0 Potstill Brandy
Closing the ceremony, KWV CEO John Loomes expressed excitement for the future: “These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our entire team. Each accolade represents their relentless pursuit of excellence. As we approach KWV Brandy’s centenary, we’re more inspired than ever to continue innovating and delivering world-class products that showcase the best of South Africa.”
For full results, visit www.veritas.co.za.
