We’ve come a long way since the days of the ABC (‘Anything But Chardonnay’) club, but if you’re still in need of some convincing, this is a good place to start.

The results are out for the 2012 Christian Eedes Chardonnay Report, and according to the wine expert who led the panel of judges, the standard was world-class this year. The top two wines – The Jordan Barrel Fermented 2011 and the Uva Mira Single Vineyard – were awarded five stars, and the remainder, four and a half.

“The Jordan Barrel Fermented 2011 is for me an archetypical chardonnay – intense citrus, creamy texture, bright acidity. Technically correct, but not at all boring. The Uva Mira Single Vineyard on the other hand is a bit more quirky, with some more hard-to-describe savoury flavours,” said Christiaan.

The judges tasted their way through sixty top chardonnays to compile the report, which is run in partnership with Sanlam Private Investments. (Now there’s a dream job for some!)

Wine fundis, keep your eyes peeled for the winners:

1. Jordan Barrel Fermented 2011
2. Uva Mira Single Vineyard 2011
3. Almenkerk 2011
4. Hamilton Russell Vineyards 2011
5. Hartenberg 2010
6. KWV The Mentors 2011
7. Radford Dale 2011
8. Sterhuis Barrel Selection 2010
9. Sumaridge 2010
10. Tokara Reserve Collection Walker Bay 2011

Still not convinced? Check out the country’s top 10 sauvignon blancs, which were announced in September at the FNB Top 10 Sauvignon Blanc Competition.