With the Michelangelo Awards announcements just in, Alvi’s Drift celebrates a notable year of accolades, once again proving its excellence in the world of winemaking both locally and internationally.
Nestled in the heart of the cooler southern reaches of the Breede River Valley, Alvi’s Drift has been under the stewardship of the Van der Merwe family for three generations, and long been synonymous with exceptional wine craftsmanship. The winery’s recent accolades are testament to their unwavering dedication to quality – even as the local industry continues to face considerable challenges – and the inspired motto they live by: Dare To Be True.
Michelangelo Awards
A South African competition judged by an international panel, the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards offers local producers the opportunity to have their wines adjudicated by respected global experts. The most recent winners were announced on 2 September 2024, with Alvi’s Drift receiving 12 Gold and Double Gold awards, reflecting the meticulous care and precision of their winemaking process.
Their Double Gold wins include 221 Chenin Blanc, 221 Sauvignon Blanc, Signature Sauvignon Blanc, Reserve Drift Fusion, 221 Special Cuvee, Albertus Viljoen Bismarck (Red Blend) and Brut Cap Classique.
Tim Atkins 2024 South Africa Special Report
This year’s report is Atkins’ 12th annual overview and is based on a record 2,256 wines sampled from 425 wineries.
Medals of Excellence are given to producers whose wines score more than 90 points, with Alvi’s Drift receiving medals for the following: 221 Pinotage, Alvi’s Drift Albertus Viljoen Limited Release Chenin Blanc, Brut Nature Cap Classique, Verreaux Pinotage, Reserve Viognier.
Additional Awards Received This Year
At the renowned International Wine & Spirits Awards (IWSA), Alvi’s Drift triumphed with 16 accolades, including 7 Great Golds and 9 Golds.
Among the highlights were Great Gold awards for Reserve CVC, Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc, Albertus Viljoen Chardonnay, Albertus Viljoen Bismarck, Verreaux Pinotage, and Brut Cap Classique.
The Reserve Viognier, set to launch publicly in October, also won Great Gold. Heralded as a standout white wine for red wine enthusiasts, this new addition to the Reserve range is a perfect example of how Alvi’s Drift continues to Taste What’s Possible in winemaking – always inviting you to do the same.
Alvi’s Drift also shone at the Lumo Awards, securing 18 Golds, with the Reserve Sauvignon Blanc receiving a coveted Double Gold garnering praise from the judges as the “stand out” sauvignon blanc.
And in the competitive National Wine Challenge, Alvi’s Drift claimed 28 wins, including 10 Top 100 & Double Platinum accolades. The Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc was honoured as White Wine of the Year, a testament to its extraordinary craftsmanship.
“We are deeply honoured by these recognitions,” said Alvi van der Merwe. “Our success is a reflection of our dedication, our respect for the environment, and the passion that drives us. These awards not only celebrate our wines but also the hard work of every individual at Alvi’s Drift as well as the much-appreciated support of those who’ve walked this journey with us from the start.”
Wine enthusiasts can experience these award-winning creations by visiting the Alvi’s Drift Online Shop. Featured wines include the Reserve Viognier, Reserve Drift Fusion, Reserve CVC, Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc, and Verreaux Pinotage – all recognised for their superior quality.
