Bruwer Raats scoops coveted award Tim Atkin MW Special South Africa Report 2023

We’re delighted to announce that Bruwer Raats has been awarded the prestigious title of WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR 2023 by Tim Atkin MW in his Special South Africa Report 2023, following in the footsteps of Eden Sadie, Chris & Andrea Mullineux, Chris Alheit and Peter-Allan Finlayson … and we know for a fact that Bruwer himself is beyond humbled and absolutely over the moon to have been recognized in this way.

After making wine around the world and honing his craft in the Cape, Bruwer established Raats Family Wines in 2000, based on a policy of ‘excellence through specialisation’, focusing on two unfashionable grapes varieties at the time, Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Purchasing the only land he could afford, some relatively cheap and ‘undesirable’ plots in the Polkadraai Hills, it soon became apparent that the unique granite-based terroir was producing some incredible wines, and is now recognised as one of the finest wards in Stellenbosch. His Eden High Density Single Vineyard Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc, and the iconic MR de Compostella hold a place as some of South Africa’s finest wines and sit comfortably amongst the best expressions of the varieties on the planet.

"Raats Family Wines, Mvemve Raats and Bruwer Vintners were born out of a desire to make an impact and leave a meaningful legacy in the industry. We believe in family and working as a collective towards a bigger goal. Therefore, this award belongs as much to my team who have all become my family as without Gavin, Mzo, Chrissie, Marika and everyone involved, none of this would be possible." Bruwer Raats