Franschhoek-based Chamonix winery won the 2009 Santam Classic Wine Trophy, as well as two gold medals, and a GQ Choice award, in The Classic Wine Trophy Awards last week, chosen by a panel of French judges.

Competition organiser, Christophe Durand, said of Chamonix’s success:  ” Their consistency as an estate over the years has been amazing.  I’m very happy with their victory and the outcome of this year’s competition as a whole”.

Simonsig won the trophy for best sparkling wine for their Cuvee Royale;  Jean Daneel won the Best White Wine Trophy for his Signature Chenin Blanc 2006; Groot Constantia won the Best Red Wine Trophy for the Gouverneurs Shiraz 2006; and Klein Constantia won the Best Sweet Wine Trophy for their Vin de Constance 2004.

The judges stated that they were disppointed with the sauvignon blanc entries, Southern Right being the only gold medal winner for this variety.  

Another Franschhoek wine to do well at the Award was the La Motte Pierneef 2007, which won a gold medal.