If you've been following South African wine, you'll know that Tim Atkin's annual report is a pretty big deal. The British Master of Wine, judge and writer has been highlighting the country's wine scene for over a decade now, and when he speaks, people tend to listen. His annual South African Wine Report has become a definitive guide, spotlighting the industry's finest and catapulting its stars to global recognition.
Each year, Tim singles out one exceptional individual as his 'Young Winemaker of the Year.' For 2024, the honour was awarded to none other than our very own Stephanie Wiid - the third consecutive female winemaker to claim this accolade. This achievement places her in the illustrious company of South African winemaking icons like Lukas van Loggerenberg (Van Loggerenberg Wines), Bernhard Bredell (Scions of Sinai), Charla Bosman (Sijnn), and Marelise Niemann (Anysbos and Momento).
Tim's words about Steph say it all really: "For her grit, unshakable spirit, and earnest desire to help push the South African wine industry forward, no one is more deserving of this award than Steph."
With harvest season just around the corner, we grabbed a few minutes with Steph to chat about what this recognition means to her and where she sees South African wine heading next.
Firstly, congratulations on being named Tim Atkin's Young Winemaker of the Year 2024! How did you first hear the news, and what was your initial reaction to this recognition?
A few days before the awards ceremony, Tim asked me for my CV, and that’s when I suspected he was up to something - especially since (much to Etienne’s relief) I’m not looking for a new job! On the night of the awards, I had my own little secret mission. I was asked to bring a few bottles of the Elmie Rosé on ice but not to tell Etienne. He was stunned to win Rosé of the Year, and thankfully, there were bottles available for tasting! The awards were announced during Tim Atkin’s annual 95pt tasting event in Cape Town, surrounded by many of South Africa’s top winemakers. It was an unforgettable evening.
What does winning this prestigious award mean to you, personally and professionally?
There’s been plenty of laughter about the “young” part of being named Young Winemaker of the Year - some might say that’s the real achievement here! You need to be under 40 to win this award, and I only have a couple of years left to qualify.
Jokes aside, I’m truly honoured to receive this recognition and to have our work at Thistle & Weed acknowledged. It’s incredibly rewarding when someone takes the time to see what you’re striving to achieve and follows your journey from such humble beginnings. This has been a tremendous journey of growth for me, both personally and professionally.
This award is the kind that opens doors and earns you a seat at the table. I’m excited about the opportunities and new beginnings it will bring!
How has receiving this title shaped your perspective on winemaking? Has it influenced your approach or aspirations for the future?
Winning this title has given me the confidence to keep heading in the direction I’m on and to trust the path I’ve chosen. It hasn’t changed much in my approach, but it’s certainly reinforced my customers’ confidence that their support of my wines has been a good idea all along.
Looking ahead, my aspirations remain the same: to work with exciting vineyards, experiment in the cellar, and ensure that the business and brand remain sustainable.
What qualities or experiences do you think contributed most to earning this recognition?
Consistency, quality, and artistry in the wines. I believe there’s a creative edge in everything we do at Thistle & Weed, and that sets us apart from the rest.
What advice would you offer for young winemakers or those considering a career in the industry, to help them succeed?
Get out into the world - work in different countries and explore various roles in the industry to broaden your understanding. Start before you feel ready, and be prepared to put in long hours. It’s all worth it when you finally see the result in your glass.
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