Our Story.
Founded in 2006 by Izak Smit, former diplomat and co-author of South African Wines: Terroir & Travel, SAWi was created to bring clarity and credibility to a crowded wine world.
Back then, one gold sticker could sell a bottle. But Izak believed true excellence should be repeatable, not accidental.
SAWi sets a benchmark based on data analytics, industry expertise, and consumer insight, not hype.
Back then, one gold sticker could sell a bottle. But Izak believed true excellence should be repeatable, not accidental.
SAWi sets a benchmark based on data analytics, industry expertise, and consumer insight, not hype.
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Trusted by the best
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Chosen by the curious
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A shortcut to certainty in a sea of awards
By the Numbers
In a world of bold labels and endless choices, SAWi gives wine lovers confidence. It’s not marketing. It’s measured, consistent excellence.
As global wine culture evolves, SAWi helps brands meet modern tastes and drinking trends, with clarity, credibility, and trust.
For producers, SAWi is the silent partner behind prestige. The SAWi stamp is more than a mark, it’s a legacy. A signal that a wine stands above the noise and consistently delivers.
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- Nearly 400 wineries supported
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Over 7,500 wines tracked
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About 11% certified annually
- More than 730 wines now bear the SAWi seal
In a world of bold labels and endless choices, SAWi gives wine lovers confidence. It’s not marketing. It’s measured, consistent excellence.
As global wine culture evolves, SAWi helps brands meet modern tastes and drinking trends, with clarity, credibility, and trust.
For producers, SAWi is the silent partner behind prestige. The SAWi stamp is more than a mark, it’s a legacy. A signal that a wine stands above the noise and consistently delivers.
Our Motivation dsfsdfasfnfiSDSDFFSDFSDFSDF
SAWi Platinum Ranking
Given to wines consistently scoring 95+ points,
representing the pinnacle of South African wine excellence.
SAWi Gold Ranking
Awarded to wines scoring 93+ points,
recognizing outstanding quality and consistency.
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We’d love to hear from you.
Whether you're:
A winery | looking to understand your score
A sommelier | aiming to stock the very best wines
A private collector | seeking help curating your cellar
A restaurant | hoping to earn a place on
the SAWi Restaurateur Portfolio