‘Tim Atkin is a British Master of Wine, and an award-winning wine journalist, broadcaster and commentator. He is also a judge of several international wine competitions and a photographer.’ That’s what Wikipedia says about Tim Atkin. He visited the Garden Route again this year, like he did last year. And the year before, and several years before that.
He recently released his seventh annual report about the South African wine scene and – and we quote – ‘I remain as enthusiastic and positive as ever. The sector has many problems (…), but I’m still convinced that the best Cape wines are world class and represent outstanding value for money. Ever creative, ever evolving, the wine industry continues to surprise and delight me. I tasted wines from at least 20 new producers this year and the quality was mostly good to excellent.’
Axehill is one of the wineries judged. It got lucky again this year and received 90, 91 and 93 points for some of their unreleased bottles: Distinta 2016, Machada 2016 and their Cape Vintage 2011 respectively. This last wine, their vintage port, also received a 5-star Platter rating only a few years ago!
Axehill is located in Calitzdorp, in the Kannaland region of the Garden Route.
Update: Tim Atkin revisited the Cape in 2025. And was overwhelmed by the quality of the wines yet again.
The Cape’s diversity is one of its trump cards.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The full Tim Atkin report on South African wines (2019) is for sale on https://timatkin.com/product/2019-south-africa-special-report/ . The 2025 South Africa Special Report can be downloaded by clicking on the link.
For more information on Axehill Wines please visit their website: www.axehill.co.za.
