South African Wine

South Africa is quickly becoming recognized as a wine producing area of excellence. As a wine region, South Africa is relatively young.

This is not due to lack of talent or climate, but results from the self-imposed isolation of the Apartheid years. Since removing itself from isolation, the South Africans have gone from strength to strength within the wine-growing world.

History

Wine growing in South Africa is not a new concept. In fact there is evidence to suggest that the first vines were grown in the Cape region in 1659! Having said this, South African wine did not become known outside of South Africa until late into the nineteenth century.

Until very recently (1992 to be precise) there were restrictions on wine producing in South Africa. In 1918, the Ko-operatiewe Wijnbouwers Vereniging co-operative (KWV) was formed to regulate and control the South African wine growing industry. The effects of the draconian restrictions are still being seen. However, as new wineries open, South Africa is becoming more of an international player in the winemaking world!

Regions

Almost all of the major vineyards in South Africa are clustered around the southwestern Cape region.

The most well known regions are Stellenbosch and Paarl and both are recognized as areas that produce superb wines, both red and white. Generally Stellenbosch is known for its excellent red wines but the newer whites and sparkling wines should not be overlooked!

Paarl is slightly warmer in climate and does not produce the same volume of quality wines. However, what it does produce is very impressive. Renowned for its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, Paarl is certainly one to watch!

Up and coming regions include Constantia, although ironically this is where the first South African vineyard is though to have been located! Constantia is fast becoming considered a centre of wine growing excellence with some truly spectacular wines!

Another region that is fast gaining an excellent reputation is the Swartland area that is producing some very fine Pinot Noir.

Grapes

South Africa has been slow to develop as a wine-growing region of excellence, partly because of a shortage of vines. There is a huge range of grapes being grown in South Africa although the most popular currently include the white grapes Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Steen as well as the red grapes Shiraz, Gamay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Wines, both red and white, from South Africa are generally light, refreshing and very easy to drink. Go on give them a go!