Two SA wines awarded rare perfect scores by international wine critic: 'They are world-class' - Tim Atkin

CapeTalk and 702's Stephen Grootes chats to international wine critic and Master of Wine, Tim Atkin.  

Listen below:

"There are wines that move me. There are wines that have an emotional connection with the drinker or the taster."

- Tim Atkin, international wine critic and Master of Wine

Atkin has awarded two South African wines a rare perfect score of 100 points in his annual South Africa Special Report. 

The 2024 Alheit Magnetic North Chenin Blanc and the 2023 Porseleinberg Syrah earned top marks.

"These are two fantastic wines, world-class wines."

- Tim Atkin, international wine critic and Master of Wine

Atkin highlights a growing global appreciation for South African wines, especially Chenin Blanc and Syrah, which are increasingly crafted with more finesse and less reliance on oak or high alcohol content. 

"Syrah is slightly under-appreciated by consumers in this country."

- Tim Atkin, international wine critic and Master of Wine

He credited this evolution to a generation of winemakers deeply connected to their land, producing wines that express a strong sense of "somewhereness," or terroir. 

Atkin notes that many of the country’s best wines now reflect a "visceral attachment" to place, which sets them apart on the global stage.

"I think that South Africans are aware of their environment. I think they're marked by it in a sense. I think that's very true of the best winemakers."

- Tim Atkin, international wine critic and Master of Wine

While climate change and economic pressures pose challenges to South Africa’s wine industry, Atkin expresses optimism about its resilience. 

He points out that the country’s geography and climate diversity, along with the cooling influence of surrounding oceans, provide buffers against extreme weather. 

Still, Atkin warns that vineyard profitability remains a serious concern, with some farmers removing vines due to unsustainable returns.

Scroll up to listen to the full conversation.