Located in the heart of the cooler southern reaches of the Breede River Valley, Alvi's Drift has been under the stewardship of the Van der Merwe family for three generations and has long been synonymous with exceptional winemaking craftsmanship. The winery's recent accolades are testament to its unwavering dedication to quality, even as the local industry continues to face considerable challenges, and to the inspiring motto by which it lives: “Dare to be true.”

With the Michelangelo Awards announcements fresh in, Alvi's Drift is celebrating a remarkable year of accolades, once again proving its excellence in the local and international winemaking world.

Miguel Ángel Awards and Alvi's drift

The Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, a South African competition judged by an international panel, offer local producers the opportunity to have their wines judged by respected international experts. The most recent winners were announced on 2 September 2024: Alvi's Drift received 12 Gold and Double Gold awards, reflecting the meticulous care and precision of their winemaking process.

Additionally, its Double Gold awards include 221 Chenin Blanc, 221 Sauvignon Blanc, Signature Sauvignon Blanc, Reserve Drift Fusion, 221 Special Cuvee, Albertus Viljoen Bismarck (Red Blend) and Brut Cap Classique.

Tim Atkins' special report on South Africa 2024

This year's report is Atkins' 12th annual summary and is based on a record 2,256 wines sampled at 425 wineries.

Medals of Excellence are awarded to producers whose wines score over 90 points, and Alvi's Drift receives medals for the following: 221 Pinotage, Alvi's Drift Albertus Viljoen Limited Release Chenin Blanc, Brut Nature Cap Classique, Verreaux Pinotage and Reserve Viognier. Additional awards received this year include:

In addition, at the prestigious International Wine & Spirits Awards (IWSA), Alvi's Drift triumphed with 16 awards, including 7 Grand Golds and 9 Golds. Notable awards include Grand Golds for Reserve CVC, Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc, Albertus Viljoen Chardonnay, Albertus Viljoen Bismarck, Verreaux Pinotage and Brut Cap Classique.

The Reserve Viognier, which will be launched in October, also won the Grand Gold. Hailed as a standout white wine for red wine enthusiasts, this new addition to the Reserve range is a perfect example of how Alvi's Drift continues to test what is possible in winemaking, always inviting you to do the same.

Alvi's Drift shines at the Lumo Awards

Alvi's Drift also shined at the Lumo Awards, scooping 18 Golds, and the Sauvignon Blanc Reserva received the coveted Double Gold, receiving praise from the judges as the “standout” sauvignon blanc.

At the highly competitive National Wine Challenge, they collected 28 awards, including 10 Top 100 and Double Platinum accolades. The Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc was named White Wine of the Year, a testament to their extraordinary craftsmanship.

“We are deeply honoured by these recognitions,” said Alvi van der Merwe. “Our success is a reflection of our dedication, our respect for the environment and the passion that drives us. These awards recognise not only our wines, but also the hard work of every person working at Alvi's Drift, as well as the much-appreciated support of those who have walked this path with us from the beginning.”

Finally, wine lovers can enjoy these award-winning creations by visiting their online store. Featured wines include the Reserve Viognier, Reserve Drift Fusion, Reserve CVC, Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc and Verreaux Pinotage, all of which are recognized for their superior quality.