On a crisp spring morning in the second week of September, pannellist came together at the five-star Lanzerac Estate in Stellenbosch for the inaugural Rosé Wine and Spirit Challenge.

The panellists were Dr Caroline Snyman CWM , Johan Wegner from GetWine, winemaker Praisy Dlamini, Dr Winnie Bowman CWM, sommeliers Joseph T. Dhafana and Janine van Zyl.

The Cap Classique wines had some excellent examples. Most examples had richness with good acidity and good balance. Praisy and Johan thought the Allée Bleue Brut Rosé MCC and the Miss Molly Petit Rosé stood out.

There were several perlé and slightly sparkling entries. The wines were clean and refreshing and the Boplaas Moscato Frizzante worth a special mention.

The rosé and blanc de noir consisted of a wide range from light everyday drinking examples to some outstanding wines offering weight, freshness, and length. Praisy felt the Almenkerk Lace Dry Rosé Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 was the standout wine in this category. Johan, a seasoned wine retailer, highlighted a number of wines including Druk My Niet T3 Rosé, Le Pommier Maraai Rosé and Leipzig Pinotage Rosé.

In the tasting of the spirits, the quality and diversity of gin were good, with something for everyone. Caroline noted that the London dry style performed well as they had more classic expressions. The new style gins varied a lot more in aroma, flavour, and quality.

The vodka categories were small, but with high-scoring products. The standout products were Cruz Vodka and Count Pushkin Premium Imperial Botanic Vodka.

The 2023 Rosé Wine and Spirit Challenge will be open for entries from 10 May 2023. Closing date for entries will be 12 September and results will be out on or before 26 Septemeber 2023.