We’re absolutely thrilled to share that Hasher Family Wines has achieved remarkable success at the 2025 International Wine Challenge! Our 2022 Batrachella Pinotage led the charge, capturing the Pinotage Trophy and capturing the hearts and palates of some of the world’s most discerning wine experts.
What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is the nature of the International Wine Challenge itself. Known as the world’s most rigorously judged wine competition, this isn’t your typical wine contest. The IWC evaluates wines through multiple rounds of blind tasting, with only the very finest making it through to trophy level.
Our complete haul speaks to the consistent quality across our entire range:
- 2022 Batrachella Pinotage: Pinotage Trophy Winner + Gold Medal
- 2023 Marimist Chardonnay: Gold Medal
- 2023 Ernest Pinot Noir, 2022 Cyriel Cabernet Franc and 2024 Nauticus Sauvignon Blanc: Silver Medals
Our trophy-winning Batrachella Pinotage was blind-tasted alongside entries from around the globe. The judging panel, featuring Master of Wine and industry experts, had wonderful things to say:
“Body, structure and fine tannins with appealing fruit. Blueberry compote, cedar box and tobacco with delicate mid-palate. Long finish with refreshing acidity.”
Batrachella, named after the unique frog species found in our vineyard, embodies the passion and care we pour into our winemaking. Each vintage represents our commitment to sustainable practices and our deep connection to this special corner of the Upper Hemel & Aarde Valley. We’ve always believed that exceptional wines are born from a combination of respect for our terroir and openness to innovation – values that clearly resonated with the judges.
The technical precision behind these results reflects our philosophy of transparency in winemaking. Our Pinotage’s “blueberry compote” character comes from careful vineyard management and our cool maritime climate, whilst the “cedar box and tobacco” notes develop through thoughtful barrel selection and ageing. We don’t hide behind mystique – we let our terroir and technique speak for themselves.
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking ahead with renewed enthusiasm. Our 2022 Batrachella Pinotage may be sold out (the bittersweet reality of small-batch winemaking!), but our 2023 vintage is making its way to wine club members as we speak.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey – from our dedicated team in the vineyards and winery, to every person who has opened a bottle of Hasher Family Wines and made it part of their story.
Here’s to many more shared moments and memorable vintages!
About the International Wine Challenge: The International Wine Challenge is the world’s most rigorously judged wine competition, featuring multiple rounds of blind tasting by panels of expert judges including Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and leading wine professionals. Only wines of exceptional quality progress to medal level, with trophies awarded to the very finest examples in each category. Learn more at www.internationalwinechallenge.com
