FOR more than three decades, the Diners Club Winelist Awards have set the benchmark for wine excellence in South Africa’s hospitality industry. Recognised and respected by both the restaurant and wine sectors, these prestigious annual awards celebrate establishments that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to elevating the standard of their wine offerings and enhancing the dining experience for their patrons.
The awards are presented across five tiers—Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and the ultimate Icon Award. The Icon distinction represents a wine list of true international stature and stands as the pinnacle of wine presentation in South Africa. The competition criteria and category structure are carefully aligned with global trends, reflecting Diners Club’s enduring commitment to service excellence within the hospitality and tourism industries.
In 2025, the distinguished judging panel—a dynamic collective of respected voices and leading talents from the wine, food, and hospitality arenas—awarded the coveted Icon status to four exceptional restaurants: three in Gauteng and one in the Western Cape.
- Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate, Pretoria
- Verdicchio Restaurant & Wine Cellar, Fourways
- Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, Sandton
- Rooi, One & Only, Cape Town
Introduced in 2018, the Icon Award is reserved for restaurants that not only fulfil all the stringent Diamond criteria, but also present an extensive international wine selection, outstanding representation across multiple wine categories, a noteworthy reserve and vintage offering, a demonstrable commitment to thoughtful wine curation, and the presence of a dedicated full-time sommelier.
In addition, 17 restaurants achieved Diamond status, eight were recognised with Platinum Awards, 22 earned Gold, and three establishments received Silver Awards.
For the full list of winners, click here.
