In a landmark moment for South African viticulture, a Stellenbosch wine crafted by an all-women team has been crowned Best International Cabernet Sauvignon at the prestigious 2025 International Wine Challenge (IWC) in London.
According to IOL, the award-winning Le Grand Vin de Stellenbosch “La Grande Sélection” Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, produced by Le Grand Domaine, triumphed over top-tier entries from global wine powerhouses, including Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Australia.
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A taste of excellence from Devon Valley
Le Grand Domaine is perched on the upper slopes of Devon Valley, where vineyards have flourished since the 18th century. The winery’s striking 2022 vintage was singled out by judges for its exceptional structure and complexity.
Tasting notes from the IWC panel describe the wine as:
“Dense, youthful colour. Cassis, blackcurrant, leafy black pepper and bouquet garni. Savoury, graphite lead, dark fruits with tar and mulberries over a tight, restrained, dry, lightly spiced finish.”
This bold, terroir-driven Cabernet marks a defining achievement for Le Grand Domaine—and an inspiring testament to the women behind it.
Breaking barriers with bold flavour
Winemaker Debbie Thompson, who joined Le Grand Domaine in 2020, leads the acclaimed team, which includes Mosima Mabelebele and Yolande van Staden. Together, they’ve been dubbed the winery’s “Women Power Team”—a title that now carries global weight.
“The IWC award is a powerful endorsement of what we’re quietly accomplishing at Le Grand Domaine,” said Thompson.
“This wine speaks of place, patience, and the work that happens every day in the vineyard and cellar. It’s a proud moment not just for us, but for the broader South African wine community.”
A global spotlight on South African wine
The recognition elevates not only Le Grand Domaine’s status but also casts a well-deserved spotlight on the calibre of South African winemaking, especially in the Cabernet Sauvignon category, long dominated by traditional wine regions.
Owner and founder Bernard Fontannaz also praised the trio’s achievement:
“We are very pleased with this outstanding result, as well as our ‘Women Power Team’ in the cellar—Debbie, Yolande, and Mosima—who work their daily magic with a smile!”
With this win, Le Grand Domaine joins the elite circle of the world’s leading Cabernet producers, proving that South Africa’s signature reds can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best on the international stage.
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Featured Image: Instagram | legranddomainewinery
