Entries are officially open for the 2025 Diners Club Winemaker of the Year and Young Winemaker of the Year Awards—two of South Africa’s most respected and prestigious wine industry accolades. The countdown begins as the wine world eagerly anticipates the announcement of this year’s winners at the glittering gala event scheduled for Saturday, 22 November 2025.
Unlike most wine competitions that spotlight only the wines, these awards honour the exceptional talent and craftsmanship of the winemakers themselves. The competition recognises the creators behind the winning wines, focusing on skill, creativity, and passion.
For its 45th year, the Winemaker of the Year award category is Cabernet Sauvignon. The 25th Young Winemaker of the Year award will focus on White Wine. Winemakers are encouraged to submit multiple entries and, as always, the competition remains free of charge, allowing equal opportunity for all South African winemakers.
Key Dates and Prizes:
- Closing date for entries: Monday, 8 September 2025
- Awards gala dinner: Saturday, 22 November 2025
- Prizes:
- Winemaker of the Year: R75,000 + international wine region trip
- Young Winemaker of the Year: R45,000 + international wine region trip
The Winemaker of the Year award was established to elevate the standard of South African wines, while the Young Winemaker of the Year award encourages winemakers under the age of 30 to showcase their individuality and help grow the future global reputation of South African wines.
Finalists will be announced closer to the awards ceremony and invited to the grand black-tie dinner where winners will be presented with trophies and prizes.
How to Enter:
Visit the official Diners Club website for more details and to submit entries:
👉 dinersclub.co.za/news-events/winemaker-of-the-year
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#WinemakerOfTheYear #WineExcellence #DinersClubSA
