HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE, WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA – 6 July 2026
Creation Wines is proud to announce its recognition in the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards in the following categories:
- Best South African Cuisine in Africa
- Best Food Gastronomy Restaurant in Africa
- Best Sustainable Restaurant in Africa
- Best Gourmet Restaurant in South Africa
‘Receiving this recognition is a tremendous honour for Creation Wines,’ says Carolyn Martin, Co-Founder and Creative Director. ‘It celebrates the passion of our team, the loyalty of our guests, and our shared belief that truly memorable wine and food experiences arise when nature, innovation and heartfelt hospitality come together. It affirms the dedication of our entire team to deliver experiences defined by authenticity, creativity and a strong sense of place.’
Located on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge in the Walker Bay wine district, Creation has built its reputation on cool-climate, terroir-reflective wines, innovative hospitality, and a philosophy of working in harmony with nature. The estate is especially renowned for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the two cultivars most closely associated with Creation’s signature style of balance, elegance, distinction and finesse. The whole range is brought to life through thoughtful pairings and immersive guest experiences that are both refined and regionally authentic.
Carolyn says Creation’s broader vision is one of regenerative leadership: a way of working that extends beyond the vineyard and cellar, seeking not only to sustain the land, but also to support local livelihoods, celebrate regional talent, and create a model of hospitality in which excellence and positive impact are deeply connected.
‘Through close relationships with local producers, a commitment to biodiversity, and a philosophy that connects wine, nature, land, the seasons and the arts, the estate contributes to an ecosystem of growth and opportunity in the Hemel-en-Aarde and surrounding region,’ says Carolyn, adding: ‘At the heart of this vision is a simple wish: we want our guests to feel a profound connection with our terroir and an eternal sense of belonging with Creation.’
The Haute Grandeur recognition marks another milestone in Creation’s journey as a benchmark for refined wine tourism. In 2025 the estate was ranked No. 7 in the World’s 50 Best Vineyards, and in 2024 it received Vinexposium’sprestigious V d’Or Award for Best Brand Experience, recognising its ability to create meaningful, memorable and innovative encounters for guests. Locally, Creation’s culinary programme received One Star in the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards 2026, underlining the estate’s distinctive approach to wine and food pairing, local sourcing and sustainability-led hospitality.
As the estate continues to evolve, the focus remains on offering guests world-class Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and other cool-climate wines, paired with creative cuisine and memorable moments in one of South Africa’s most beautiful wine landscapes.
About Creation Wines
Established in 2002 by Jean-Claude and Carolyn Martin, Creation Wines is located on the picturesque Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge in South Africa’s Walker Bay wine district. Known especially for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the estate has earned acclaim for its cool-climate wines, sustainability-minded philosophy and innovative wine-and-food experiences. Creation welcomes guests to enjoy tastings, curated pairings and contemporary cuisine inspired by nature, provenance and the regenerative potential of hospitality to enrich both land and community.
About the Haute Grandeur Excellence Awards
In the realm of award initiatives, Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards stands unmatched. Excellence is recognized through guest feedback rather than votes from the general public or a panel of judges. This fair and transparent process guarantees unbiased results – a concept exclusive to this brand.
The Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards honour establishments that continuously excel through remarkable hospitality experiences. The Awards recognise exceptional contributions by hotels, lodges, villas, resorts, retreats, spas and restaurants worldwide.
Association with Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards guarantees global recognition, distinction, credibility, and influence. The awards are revered as the highest accolade in hospitality worldwide – a promise of unparalleled service excellence.
For more information on the 2026 award winners, visit www.hautegrandeur.com.
Media Contact
Carolyn Martin
carolyn@creationwines.com
+27 72 673 1880
