A black empowerment wine project based in Stellenbosch has secured a gold medal at one of the world’s most prestigious wine competitions, placing South African transformation initiatives alongside leading international producers.

Visio Vintners received the award at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards in London for its Alliance 2022, a red blend comprising 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and 8% Shiraz.

The winery is a partnership between Kleine Zalze Wines and the Kleine Zalze Empowerment Trust, which is owned and managed by employees working across the business.

The Decanter World Wine Awards, established in 2004, attracted close to 17 000 entries from 58 countries this year. Gold medals are awarded only to wines scoring between 95 and 96 points following blind tasting by an international panel of Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers and wine experts.

Sandra Koen, trustee of Visio Vintners, said the recognition validates the project’s commitment to quality and excellence.

“The award for our Alliance 2022 demonstrates that transformation and excellence are not mutually exclusive goals,” Koen said. “It provides evidence that South Africa’s empowerment initiatives can produce wines capable of competing at the highest international level.”

Gerald Snyman, also a trustee, said Visio Vintners benefits from access to prime Stellenbosch terroir adjacent to the Kleine Zalze Wines property.

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“Cabernet Sauvignon forms the backbone of the wine, bringing structure, depth and classic blackcurrant fruit,” Snyman said. “Cabernet Franc contributes aromatic complexity and elegance, while Shiraz adds spice and richness.”

The grapes are sourced exclusively from Visio Vintners’ own vineyards in Stellenbosch, a region known for producing high-quality red wines. The area benefits from decomposed granite soils, varied elevations and the cooling influence of False Bay.

The empowerment trust was launched to create opportunities for employee participation, skills development and long-term economic inclusion in the wine industry.

Koen said the award sends a message about the future of South African wine and the role of transformation in the industry.

“We hope this award inspires other empowerment projects and reinforces South Africa’s reputation as a producer of outstanding wines across all sectors of the industry,” she said.

The Alliance 2022 sits at the top of Visio Vintners’ portfolio of red, white and rosé wines.

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