Six of the Stellenbosch University (SU) wines entered the Veritas wine competition this year; of which the Die Laan Sauvignon blanc 2022, Die Laan Pinotage Blanc de Noir 2022 and Die Laan Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 received Silver medals, the Die Laan Shiraz 2019 won a Silver outstanding medal while the Die Laan Merlot 2022 and the Die Laan Merlot Reserve 2020 earned double gold medals.
The Veritas awards are held annually and are a prestigious wine and brandy competition that recognises exceptional wines and brandies, and the distinctive Veritas symbol of excellence serves as an authoritative quality guideline for wine and brandy connoisseurs.
Gold and Double Gold awards are also valuable to the wine industry because they provide a prestigious image for the wine, winery, and winemaker. The last time SU won a double gold medal was in 2019 with the Die Laan Merlot Reserve 2017.
“The Die Laan Merlot 2020 scored 92 out of 100 points and the Die Laan Merlot Reserve 2020 scored 93 out of 100 which is a very big achievement for me, the cellar and the University.” Says Mr. Raan Wassung, SU Winemaker .
“I hope we can keep this winning streak going in future competitions.” Adds Mr. Wassung.
Every year, more than 120 international and local judges gather in the Cape winelands to judge entries spanning the entire spectrum of styles and vintages. This year the awards were hosted at Nederburg.
You can also have a taste of the two double gold medallist wines; they are available for sale amongst others at only R150 per bottle for SU staff members (via the payroll system) and for external buyers at R195. Contact winesales@sun.ac.za for a detailed pricelist of all the wines available.