As the year draws to a close, Strauss & Co is delighted to announce the much-anticipated final Fine Wine Auction for 2023, an exciting ensemble of wines from both Young Gun and New Wave producers, alongside the richness of Old Vines. This timed online auction opens on Friday, 17 November and will conclude on Monday, 27th November, with bidding closing from 18h00.
What Defines a Young Gun and New Wave Winemaker?
These winemakers, recognised as Young Guns and New Wave producers, are a breed of innovators pushing the boundaries of winemaking. Hailing from notable estates, they create cutting-edge wines marked by personality and energy. Working collaboratively, this dynamic generation embraces innovation while upholding tradition, delivering exceptional wines that captivate global palates.
With an entrepreneurial spirit, these visionaries are revitalising the industry, elevating South African wines to new heights of quality and international recognition. They draw inspiration from classic to avant-garde styles and techniques, exploring wine regions worldwide.
Applying creative interpretations on home soil, often sourcing from unique vineyards and old vines, they produce limited-edition, high-demand wines, positioning themselves as rising stars and future icons.
A substantial number of these Young Guns and New Wave winemakers rely on grapes sourced from certified Old Vine vineyards, emphasising the importance of preserving and caring for younger vines. The Old Vine Project, supporting this initiative, seeks to develop a culture of vine care, promoting healthy and productive old age for vines and highlighting the benefits of wines crafted from old vines.
South Africa’s Rich Wine Heritage and Old Vines
With a winemaking history dating back to 1659 and boasting some of the world’s oldest viticultural soils, South Africa captivates the global wine world. Wines made from Old Vines, aged 35 years and older, have gained international acclaim, producing multiple award-winning wines across styles, regions, and varieties.
The Old Vine Project advocates for the nurturing of younger vines, ensuring they enjoy a healthy and productive lifespan. This approach encourages winegrowers, winemakers, and consumers to appreciate the unique qualities of wines derived from old vines.
Strauss & Co Wine Specialist & Curator, Higgo Jacobs, expresses, “This catalogue captures the future stars and investment wines of South Africa, still well-priced, especially with the festive season approaching. With a myriad of varieties and styles on offer, these wines, with a little age, are ready for enjoyment upon purchase.”
Roland Peens, Strauss & Co Wine Specialist, emphasises the impact of Young Guns on the industry, stating, “The Young Guns changed the industry! Their desire to find the ultimate expression of South African wines was against the status quo and even impacted the traditional producers.”
With 118 lots set to go under the hammer, this final auction of the year promises excitement and the opportunity to acquire wines that embody the spirit of South African innovation.
To browse the auction, register and bid: www.straussart.co.za
