MIAMI, Florida – A South African wine producer has claimed one of the industry’s most coveted awards, with Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines being named the World’s Best Rising Star at The Golden Vines 2025 Awards Gala in Miami on 8 November.
The recognition at what’s often called the Oscars of Wine marks a significant achievement for the Swartland and Franschhoek-based producer, highlighting South Africa’s growing prominence in the global fine wine market.
“As a winemaker rooted in the unique terroirs of South Africa, our recognition at this global gathering is both a tremendous honour and a meaningful affirmation of our commitment to craft, place and purpose, and the incredible potential in the Cape,” said Andrea Mullineux, the company’s winemaker.
The Golden Vines Awards, established in 2021, celebrates excellence in fine wine while raising funds for the Gérard Basset Foundation, which supports education, diversity and innovation in wine, spirits, and hospitality.
The winners of the Golden Vines 2025 Awards, often referred to as the Oscars of wine, celebrate at the the gala event in Miami. South Africa’s Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines was named the World’s Best Rising Star. PHOTOS: Aaron Davidson
This year’s results were determined by votes from 830 fine wine merchants, Michelin-starred sommeliers, and industry professionals from more than 100 countries. The voting panel included 41 Masters of Wine, 31 Master Sommeliers, 58 Advanced Sommeliers, and 240 WSET Diploma holders, with results independently verified by Deloitte.
Other major winners at the ceremony included Vega Sicilia for World’s Best Fine Wine Producer, Weingut Egon Muller as Europe’s Best Fine Wine Producer, Harlan Estate for the Americas, and Henschke representing the rest of the world.
“As a South African wine producer, we are deeply grateful for this award at The Golden Vines as this recognition at the highest level affirms the country’s growing reputation as a leading maker of fine wines,” said Analjit Singh from the company.
Co-owner Chris Mullineux dedicated the award to their team and industry supporters, saying: “We dedicate this award to our vineyard and cellar teams, and the fine wine merchants, sommeliers and industry professionals who believe in our wines and share them and our story with the world.”
The evening also recognised other industry leaders, with South Africa’s Rosa Kruger and the Old Vine Project taking the Innovation award, Jean Trimbach (France) receiving the Golden Vines Hall of Fame award and Cathy Corison (America) earning the Sustainability Award.
The win comes as South African wine producers continue to gain international recognition for their quality and innovation, building on the country’s centuries-old winemaking tradition.
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