There's something quietly remarkable about a South African wine earning a seat at the world's most coveted table not once, not twice, but six times running. Bruce Jack Wines has again been named among the World's Most Admired Wine Brands of 2026 by Drinks International, the publication widely regarded as the authority on global wine culture. It's the kind of recognition that the industry calls the "Oscars" of wine, and for Bruce Jack, it's become almost a habit.

But behind the accolade is a story less about trophies and more about intention, about building something that travels well, both globally and locally.

Producing wine across four continents (Africa, Europe, North America, and South America) and distributed across 23 countries, Bruce Jack Wines has the kind of geographic reach that most winemakers only dream about. Yet what's arguably more interesting is what happens close to home. In South Africa, the brand's exclusive retail partnership with TOPS at SPAR has become the vehicle through which world-class wine reaches everyday moments  a Friday night at home, a Sunday braai, a quiet Tuesday with nothing planned except something worth sipping.

The Bruce Jack Lifestyle range, available exclusivel

y at TOPS at SPAR, is the clearest expression of this philosophy. It includes wines sourced internationally, among them selections from Chile, offered at a price point that doesn't require an occasion to justify the purchase.

"Being included on the list of the Top 50 Most Admired Wine Brands for the sixth time is a wonderful recognition of our incredible team and our strategic partnerships," says Bruce Jack. "It also reflects the strength of the relationships we've built in key markets, where our partners truly understand and share our vision."

The brand grew by 30% in 2025, driven by expanded listings across Africa and emerging markets, including Brazil and Japan. But it's the depth of partnerships, not just their number, that Jack credits for the brand's staying power. "As a country, South Africa has often been overlooked on global lists like these. But that is changing. There is growing recognition that South Africa produces exceptional wine across every price point, and retailers play a critical role in bringing that story to life."

For TOPS at SPAR's National Marketing Manager: Liquor, Anna-Marie Marks, the partnership is as much about experience as it is about product. "Our exclusive partnership with Bruce Jack Wines allows us to offer our customers something truly special, premium, globally recognised wines they can enjoy at home."

As a family-owned business, Bruce Jack Wines also invests in community upliftment, environmental sustainability, and education values that find an easy home within SPAR's own ethos. "It is lekker to have made the cut once again," Jack says. "But what matters most is how we show up for the people who ultimately enjoy our wines."

Six global honours in. South Africa's wine story is very much still being written and it's tasting better all the time.

The Bruce Jack Lifestyle Range is available exclusively at TOPS at SPAR stores nationwide.