Congratulations poured in after two wine farms in the Overberg made the list of the best vineyards in the world.
Creation Wines, which is in Hemel-en-Aarde valley, showed again why it is worth a visit when it came fourth in the world and first in Africa, while Benguela Cove Wine Estate placed at number 53.
This is not the first time Creation Wines has been mentioned in this prestigious list and for the fourth year it has been placed among the World’s Top 50 Vineyards.
The top vineyards in the world were announced last week at an event in Spain, by World’s Best Vineyards, which compiles an annual list, showcasing the finest vineyard experiences from around the globe. This prestigious annual list is created to promote wine tourism around die world.
It was a day to remember for the Martin family who owns Creation Wines. “We were very excited for the winners. Our son Glenn, also a fourth-generation winemaker in our families, from my husband’s and my family side, flew over from where he is working in Germany to join me,” Carolyn Martin said. “We both felt very emotional, for this after all was a David and Goliath situation with so many world-famous established brands and then Creation – all about sustainability of place, our people and purpose. I could not be more proud and grateful to our team and all our stakeholders.”
She said the people Creation has worked with have played a huge role in its success. “Our team receives regular training to enhance their productivity and personal health as well as give our guests the most authentic experience of wine and wellness. What is exciting for guests is that we have time to talk about freshness of local ingredients, community support and the environment. The joy of wine and food pairing is savoured as convivial.”
Creation’s purpose, she said, is to produce fine wine, especially chardonnay and pinot noir, and pair it with equally fine food. “This is critically important for us to grow and thrive; opening the way to our mantra, and that is ‘innovation’. Without innovation, we cannot be sustainable.”
Theewaterskloof Executive Mayor Kallie Papier congratulated the Creation Wines Team. “To be recognised on one of these prestigious lists is no easy task, it takes hard work, commitment, innovation and most of all passion. On behalf of Theewaterskloof Municipality I would like to congratulate Carolyn and Jean-Claude Martin as well as your entire team on your outstanding accolades. We are proud to have such a distinguished winery in our region that contributes to the unique and world class tourism available in our area.”
The provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities Mireille Wenger also congratulated them: “I’d like to congratulate Creation Wines which secured a spot in the top 5 in the world and is recognised as the best vineyard in Africa.”
