Recognition on the international wine stage is a proud moment for any winery. For Dekkersvlei Vineyards, five wines have received Double Gold at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge 2026, highlighting the quality and character coming from the Paarl Winelands.
The wines recognised are the MCC Brut Rosé 2022, Sauvignon Blanc 2025, Pinotage 2021, Chenin Blanc 2025 and Cabernet Sauvignon 2024.
What is the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge?
The Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge is an international wine competition that evaluates wines through professional tasting. Wines are assessed on their sensory qualities, including their aromatic expression, balance, structure and overall harmony.
The competition uses a 100-point scoring system. Wines scoring 90 points or higher can receive a Double Gold medal, recognising wines with exceptional harmony, typicality and complexity. Each wine is also accompanied by a detailed tasting assessment.
For Dekkersvlei, the recognition is particularly meaningful as the five wines represent a broad selection of the cellar, from Méthode Cap Classique and fresh white wines to Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Five Wines, Five Different Expressions
MCC Brut Rosé 2022
The MCC Brut Rosé 2022 brings together Pinot Noir and Pinotage in a sparkling wine that is fresh, elegant and well balanced. It opens with fine, persistent bubbles and aromas of apple, white peach and citrus zest, followed by layers of red berry and stone fruit. Crisp acidity keeps the wine lively, while a creamy mousse gives it a softer texture. It finishes dry and refined.
A natural choice for celebrations, it also works well with seafood, sushi, smoked salmon, soft cheeses, canapés and light desserts.
Sauvignon Blanc 2025
The Sauvignon Blanc 2025 is a fresh and expressive white with a bright, mineral-driven character. Tropical fruit, gooseberry and subtle cut grass shape the aromatic profile, while cool fermentation and the absence of oak help preserve the wine’s freshness and clarity. Time on fine lees adds a little more texture beneath its crisp profile without taking away from its lively character.
It is particularly well suited to fresh, herb-led dishes, including oysters, sushi, herb-crusted fish, citrusy salads and soft goat’s cheese.
Pinotage 2021
Pinotage is at the heart of South African wine, and the Dekkersvlei Pinotage 2021 showcases the variety in a bold yet balanced style.
The wine has dark berry richness, subtle spice and gentle smoky undertones. Its smooth structure and lingering finish bring together the ripe fruit and savoury character associated with Pinotage.
As a South African-grown variety, Pinotage has a natural place in the Dekkersvlei collection. The wine pairs particularly well with grilled meats, lamb, venison and classic braai dishes.
Chenin Blanc 2025
The Chenin Blanc 2025 is an expressive white built around freshness and texture. Fresh pear, apple, honeyed citrus and gentle floral notes give the wine its character, while slow fermentation and extended lees contact create a rounded palate. Despite this added texture, the wine retains its brightness and balance.
Its combination of fruit, freshness and texture makes it a versatile food wine. It pairs naturally with grilled chicken, prawns, calamari, creamy mussels, mild curries and dishes with aromatic spice or a touch of sweetness.
Cabernet Sauvignon 2024
The Cabernet Sauvignon 2024 brings structure and depth to the five Double Gold wines. It is a full-bodied wine with concentrated blackcurrant and ripe plum, complemented by touches of oak and spice. Polished tannins give the wine structure without overpowering the fruit, while a long, refined finish adds to its character.
This is a wine suited to richer dishes and hearty meals, including steak, roast beef, slow-cooked lamb, aged cheddar, rich tomato-based pastas, grilled mushrooms and rosemary potatoes.
A Reflection of Dekkersvlei
Five Double Gold wines across different styles is more than a collection of medals, the recognition reflects the range of wines produced on the working farm in Paarl, from fresh Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc to South African Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon and MCC Brut Rosé.
For Dekkersvlei, these awards are a recognition of the work that goes into each bottle and of the Paarl vineyards where the wines begin.
Taste the Award-Winning Wines at Dekkersvlei
The five Double Gold wines offer five different ways to experience the Dekkersvlei range, from crisp whites and sparkling MCC to Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Dekkersvlei is also the home of the world’s first White Pinotage since 2007, discover its story on the Taste the Original tour, which includes a vineyard and cellar experience with tastings of White Pinotage and other Dekkersvlei wines.
There is plenty more to enjoy, including wine and brandy tastings, vineyard walks, wood-fired pizzas and Pinotage & Pizza pairings. Families are welcome, with activities and experiences designed for younger visitors too.
Just 45 minutes from Cape Town via the N1, Dekkersvlei makes an easy Winelands day trip for tasting, lunch and exploring a working Paarl wine farm.
Dekkersvlei Experiences
