South African Cape Fine & Rare Auction 2021 lots revealed

South Africa's prestigious Cape Fine & Rare Wine Auction has announced the lineup of wines to be auctioned at its 2021 event.

Taking place on 22 May 2021, the auction comes after a particularly challenging year for the South African wine industry and will feature many sought-after bottlings.

The lots going under the hammer include bottlings preserved since the 1960s, wines produced under South Africa's pioneering Old Vine Project, and high-quality wines from the country's most successful vintages - 2009 and 2015.

Some of the rarest wines going on sale include Chateau Libertas 1970, Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2009, Le Lude Rose Agrafe 2012, Nederburg Private Bin Eminence 1999, Uva Mira O.T.V 2015, Vilafonte Series C 2005, and Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon 1970. The full catalogue is avaiable to view at capefinerarewine.auction/producers.

The Cape Fine & Rare Wine Auction 2021 collection has been curated by respected South African wine experts including Master of Wine Cathy van Zyl, wine critic and columnist Michael Fridjhon, and general manager of Singita Premier Wine Direct François Rautenbach. 

The sale is being held in a hybrid digital format, with live bidding online and in-room bidding taking place in Stellenbosch. It means that, for the first time, collectors from around the world will be able to participate. Christie's auctioneer Charlie Foley will be taking up the gavel.

Niël Groenewald, Cape Fine & Rare Wine Auction director, said: "It has been one of the most challenging years in the history of our industry, but the wines selected really showcase the outstanding winemaking talent in South Africa and the globally competitive fine wines that are now being produced. 

"Now more than ever, it is important to support our fine wine industry and its initiatives committed to preservation and growth, sustainability, diversity and inclusion. We are looking forward with great anticipation to seeing how this year's lots perform."

Charlie Foley of Christie's added: "South African fine wines present a real opportunity for both experienced collectors and those taking their first steps towards building a collection. Fine wines from the country are of exceptional quality but are the lowest priced worldwide. This makes them excellent value for money. Now is definitely the time to be trying South Africa's fine and rare wines."

14 February 2021 - Bethany Whymark