Estate Red Blend 2024

A blend of 68% Syrah, 27% Carignan and 5% Mourvèdre, the Zwartwater 2024 Paardeberg Lammershoek Estate Red Blend balances ripeness and freshness with Mediterranean inspiration. The Syrah and Mourvèdre were fermented with 100% whole bunches, while the Carignan was destemmed for clarity and lift, then blended early after malolactic fermentation and returned to barrel. Matured in 20% new oak with Stockinger and Mittelberger named as the preferred cooperages, the oak impact is subtle and structural rather than overt. Velvety yet energetic, the wine shows dark forest fruits, savory spice and fine acidity, with the Carignan providing much of that freshness.

Zwartwater is a newly launched brand rising from the historic Paardeberg property long known as Lammershoek-"Lamb's Corner." Now in its third ownership change in 27 years, the estate begins a new chapter under owner-winemaker Stefan Johannes, who recognizes the immense potential of this Swartland site. The 187-hectare property is composed entirely of decomposed granite, with 45 hectares planted to vine across exposures that run from full south to full north, framed by eucalyptus groves and the rugged slopes of the Paardeberg.

This is a deeply personal and multi-generational vision: Stefan, father of six, involves his entire family in the wines, supported by more than 100 employees, many of whom live on the estate. Zwartwater produces just two wines—a white blend and a red blend-both sourced exclusively from estate fruit. Plans are underway to unveil an embossed bottle for wines made from Lammershoek fruit, reinforcing origin and farming identity. The valley itself was first recorded by early settlers for its reliable groundwater, with vines planted here as early as 1719, underscoring the site's long viticultural history.

A new trophy honouring legacy and craftsmanship

This year sees the introduction of a new trophy named in honour of the late John Skotnes, the artist and craftsman who designed the competition’s trophies from the outset. His work helped shape one of the Show’s most distinctive traditions: trophies that not only recognise achievement, but carry a sense of artistry, permanence and legacy.

The new award is a fitting tribute to that contribution, and to the idea that, like great wine, true craftsmanship leaves something enduring behind. It will be presented annually to the producer of the highest scoring blended wine, red or white, from 2026.

A notable milestone from this year's competition. Zwartwater has won the inaugural John Skotnes Trophy for Best Blended Wine Overall with their Red Blend 2024 - their debut vintage. The wine was also awarded the Investec Trophy for Best Rhône-Style Red Blend.