South Africa Selection by CMB 2026: Cape Wines Shine with Four Grand Gold Medals, Two of Them for Robertson Wine Valley
The results of the 3rd edition of the South Africa Selection by CMB are now in. Held from 26 to 28 October in the Robertson Wine Valley, at the heart of one of the Cape’s leading wine regions, this year’s edition celebrated the diversity and quality of South African wines. All wines were tasted blind, in accordance with the international standards of the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles.
The full results are available at southafricaselection.com.
Robertson Wine Valley: A Region in the Spotlight
Nestled along Route 62 in the Breede River Valley, between the Langeberg and Riviersonderend mountain ranges, the Robertson Wine Valley is one of South Africa’s renowned quality wine regions. Its warm, dry climate and diverse soils, ranging from lime-rich alluvial plains to shale-based foothills, contribute to the distinctive character of its wines.
The region is particularly known for its Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and Cap Classique sparkling wines. It was against this backdrop that the judges of the South Africa Selection by CMB evaluated this year’s entries, offering a valuable opportunity to showcase the Cape’s terroirs and the expertise of its wine producers.
For Maryna Calow, Director of the South Africa Selection by CMB, hosting the competition in the Robertson Wine Valley was an opportunity to celebrate both the quality of South African wines and the spirit of the region:
“Hosting the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles South Africa Selection in the Robertson Wine Valley was a wonderful opportunity to showcase not only the exceptional quality and diversity of South African wines, but also the warmth, character and hospitality of the Robertson region. The results are a strong reflection of the talent, passion and commitment of our producers, and the four Grand Gold medals are particularly exciting recognition on an international platform. Competitions such as CMB play an important role in celebrating our achievements, strengthening our wine industry’s international profile and reminding the world of the outstanding wines South Africa has to offer.”
Four Grand Gold Medals, from Sparkling Wines to Red Blends
The highest distinction was awarded to four wines from three of the Cape’s most renowned wine regions:
- Babylonstoren Sprankel 2021– Paarl (sparkling wine)
- De Wetshof Estate Lesca Chardonnay 2026– Robertson
- Kruger Family Reserve Chardonnay 2025– Stellenbosch (Stellenview Premium Wines)
- Rietvallei Estéanna 2023– Robertson (red blend)
The host region features particularly prominently in the results: Robertson wines received eight medals, including two of the four Grand Gold Medals. This achievement highlights the quality and diversity of local wine production, as well as Robertson’s position among the regions contributing to the international reputation of Cape wines.
Wines Judged by Professionals Who Know the South African Market
The strength of the South Africa Selection by CMB lies in the profile of its tasters: influential professionals who buy, distribute, sell and talk about wine every day, and who have an in-depth understanding of the local market and its expectations.
Their areas of expertise include duty-free retail, distribution, supermarket buying, specialist media and education: key channels through which South African wines reach consumers.
What a Medal Means for Producers
Wines were evaluated according to the same rigorous standards as those applied by the international Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. A medal from the South Africa Selection by CMB therefore represents a credible endorsement with direct relevance to the South African market. It can strengthen brand visibility, reassure buyers and influence purchasing decisions in one of the world’s most competitive wine-producing nations.
About the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles | CMB
The CMB is a prestigious international wine competition receiving more than 15,000 entries each year across its Sessions and competitions. Its exclusively professional tasters evaluate wines blind with a single objective: to select those of the highest quality, without any prejudice based on the reputation of the label or the appellation. Founded in 1994, the CMB is now recognised worldwide as one of the most prominent events of its kind.
More than just a competition, the CMB also provides each participant with concrete marketing tools to better showcase their wines and communicate more effectively. It also develops the CMB Experience network, comprising wine bars, restaurants and retailers across the world offering a selection of award-winning wines. This network helps increase their international visibility and creates unique opportunities to introduce these wines to consumers worldwide.
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