Undeniably, the accumulation of knowledge and expertise has a long history with many accolades over the years. The first export contract was concluded with Burgoyne in London early in the twentieth century. This was just the beginning of the recognition of excellence in winemaking. The first awards were won in 1943 at the Cape Wine Show and in 1946 Zonnebloem clinched nine trophies and the overall champion gold medal. In 1947, Zonnebloem was honoured by having a Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling chosen for the Royal Train’s official wine list for the visit of the British Royal Family. It came as no surprise when a 1945 Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon tasted in 1977 by the Institute of Masters of Wine, was pronounced “a magnificent, superb wine – a great experience”.
The range was certified in 1973, with the introduction of the Wine of Origin legislation with grapes sourced from select vineyards located throughout the Stellenbosch region.
Today this time-honoured tradition lives on from the vineyards, tended by the same families for over three generations, to the meticulous craftsmanship in the cellar. This care and attention have resulted in a range of great wines nurtured, handcrafted and slowly coaxed to perfection, until they are released at optimum quality. These full-bodied wines are well-structured to show varietal character with rich, robust flavours, yet remain accessible and easy to drink with a soft palate.