and through our interactive new site we wish to keep you updated on all the latest Slanghoek news and events, as well as give you an insider's view of our spectacularly beautiful valley and equally impressive wines.

Be sure to diarize the dates of our upcoming festivals and Blend and Bottle scheduled sessions (bookings essential) for 2011, and become a member of the Slanghoek Loyalty Club to receive regular news and information on cellar activities, as well as a special Loyalty discount on your wine purchases. Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to attempt our newly redesigned MTB Route, or visit the cellar to taste all our latest release wines and enjoy the pristine scenery, warm hospitality and tranquility that is uniquely Slanghoek!

The award is allocated each year to the producer making the highest overall contribution to the cellar and the local community.  The honour is awarded to a farming unit rather than an individual, with the owner of the farm allocating the incentives which include a medal of excellence, sponsored by Mr. Stephan Naudé, as well as a cash prize, sponsored by Bergrivier Besproeiing. This year the title and prize was awarded to Messrs Philippus and his son Phil du Toit of Rustfontein Farm.

The evaluation criteria for the competition include the quality of products delivered to the cellar by the producer, the level of product compliance with market requirements, producer's contribution to cellar activities, producer's contribution to biodiversity and IPW, social and ethical practices, as well as the producer's contribution and commitment to the development of the Slanghoek region and brand as a whole.  The award was initiated by Slanghoek Cellar to encourage involvement, but also instill a sense of pride in member producers, and to promote achievement of overall optimal quality.