Excellent wines from Tim Atkin

Wine from South Africa & Portugal – offers, information, news, recommendations

The new report shows a country full of energy, diversity and sustainable strength. From old vines to modern classics - discover the top-rated wines of the year now

With his annual South Africa Special Report, Tim Atkin MW once again sets the benchmark for the evaluation of South African wines in 2025. The British Master of Wine analyses the industry more comprehensively than anyone else - and this time comes to a pleasing conclusion: South Africa has found its identity.

According to Atkin, the current vintage marks a return to balance after years of extreme weather. Mild temperatures, healthy vines and long, even growth have resulted in wines that combine clarity, freshness and depth. The white wines show precision and tension, while the red wines are characterised by structure and elegance.

But Atkin looks beyond the vintage: he describes a country in which sustainability, biodiversity and old vines are no longer marginal phenomena, but part of the mainstream. More and more estates are working regeneratively and focussing on what happens in the soil. Names such as Spier, Waterkloof, Rustenberg, Kleine Zalze and Van Loveren are representative of this movement - they show that working responsibly and accessible quality are not mutually exclusive.

Another core theme is the importance of old vines. The Old Vine Project combines history and the future in a unique way. Winemakers such as Perdeberg, Mullineux, Thorne & Daughters, Sadie Family Wines, Bellingham, Damascene and Stellenrust not only preserve decades-old plots, but also use them to create authentic, characterful wines with an unmistakable expression.

Atkin sees South Africa today on a par with the great wine regions of the world. No longer as "up-and-coming", but as an established force that radiates self-confidence and yet has remained down-to-earth.

Anyone who wants to understand South African wine will find Tim Atkin's report a snapshot full of energy, diversity and inspiration.