Tim Atkin MW Showcases South Africa’s Top Wines With Private Clients By Old Mutual Wealth

Tim Atkin MW, internationally acclaimed British Master of Wine, crowned his 2025 Wines of the Year, celebrating the finest South African wines from over 200 of the country’s leading producers.

A few exclusive tasting events celebrated these award-winning wines, bringing together two powerhouses of purpose and precision: Tim Atkin, with a lifelong pursuit of vinicultural excellence, and Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth, a trusted partner in bespoke wealth management. Just as the finest wines are carefully curated, so are private clients, who craft, grow, and protect their clients’ legacies across generations.

“Partnering with Tim Atkin for the second year running and supporting the launch of his 13th South Africa Special Report, the definitive guide to the country’s finest wines, has been a privilege,” reflects Jean Minnaar, Managing Director at Private Clients. “Much like winemaking, wealth management requires patience, expertise and foresight. This collaboration has celebrated local winemakers and the values of craftsmanship, legacy and long-term thinking we share with our clients.”

The 2025 report launch celebrates South Africa’s most exceptional wines. A respected wine critic, journalist, and judge with over 40 years of experience, Atkin brings deep insight and global influence to his reviews. Each of the 217 wines that were available for public tasting scored at least 95 out of 100 points, equivalent to a gold medal. This year’s edition was his most comprehensive, featuring 2 250 wines from 420 producers, making it the ultimate guide to the country’s finest.

“The excellent scores have reinforced my belief that South Africa is producing some of the best wines globally,” said Atkin. “This success has been driven by the country’s diverse terroirs, innovative winemaking techniques, and unwavering commitment to quality. I was thrilled to cement my partnership with Private Clients again.”

Over three days, guests were served South Africa’s finest wines by the winemakers themselves. Intimate tastings and exclusive winemaker events were hosted at selected venues, including the Norval Foundation in Tokai, Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West, and Strauss & Co in Houghton, Johannesburg.

Alongside the tastings, awards were presented where Tim congratulated all the outstanding winners whose innovative winemaking, mastery and craftsmanship earned them top honours, from Rising Star (Megan van der Merwe of Beau Constantia) and Young Winemaker (Stuart Botha of Tokara) to Winemaker of the Year (Donovan Rall of Rall Wines).

The hands behind the harvest have been the backbone of the industry, reflected in every bottle enjoyed. A portion of ticket sales was donated to the Pebbles Project, an organisation dedicated to improving education and health outcomes for children in South Africa’s wine regions. This initiative allowed us to support communities whose dedication makes South Africa’s wines exceptional. People will come to the events for the wine and stay for the story.

Private Clients by Old Mutual’s partnership with Tim continues to evolve, extending to international shows and supporting the growth of South African wines at home and abroad. The events also offer a space to celebrate excellence in wine or financial planning.