2026 Judges’ Feedback
The Judges’ Feedback session is a unique engagement opportunity presented by The Trophy Wine Show to the wine industry. It was presented in-person, on the morning of Thursday 14 May, at the Grande Roche Hotel, Paarl. This was an open invitation for all wine producers and industry-related parties (not only show entrants) to get an overview, from the chairman, of the current wines which were on the tasting benches the previous three days. It was also an invaluable opportunity for industry and media alike, to get instant feedback from the international and local judges. This was followed by a Q&A session.
Watch the feedback videos below:
International Judges
Heidi Mäkinen MW – Finland
Kenichi Ohashi MW – Japan
Oz Clarke OBE – UK
Michael Fridjhon – chairman of the judges
South African Judges
Cathy van Zyl MW on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Christian Eedes on the State of the vinous nation
Christian Eedes on Chenin Blanc
Christian Eedes on Bordeaux and Red blends
Heidi Duminy CWM on Cap Classique
JD Pretorius on Sauvignon Blanc
JD Pretorius on Merlot
Kyle Davids on Semillon
Malu Lambert on Shiraz/Syrah
Malu Lambert on fortified and dessert wines
Mandla Patson Mathonsi’s journey as a judge
Mandla Patson Mathonsi on Pinotage