South African wines offer a unique blend of Old World finesse and New World boldness. With a winemaking history dating back to the 17th century, the country has emerged as a major player in the global wine industry. From crisp Chenin Blancs to robust Pinotages, South African wines provide diverse options for both enthusiasts and casual drinkers. There are lots of fantastic, accessible wines, we'll explore what makes South African wines special, introduce beginners to key styles, and delve into the regions and history that shape this fascinating industry.
What Makes South African Wines Special?
Several factors contribute to the distinctiveness of South African wines:
- Diverse Terroir: South Africa boasts a variety of climates and soils, allowing for a wide range of wine styles. Coastal breezes, mountainous landscapes, and different soil compositions all contribute to complex and expressive wines.
- Heritage and Innovation: With over 360 years of winemaking tradition, South Africa blends classic European influences with modern techniques, producing wines of great balance and character.
- Unique Grapes: While international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay thrive, indigenous red varietal Pinotage and signature white grape Chenin Blanc showcase South Africa’s unique identity.
- Sustainability and Ethical Practices: Many wineries focus on organic, biodynamic, and fair-trade certifications, ensuring that their wines are produced with environmental and social responsibility in mind.
A Beginner’s Guide to South African Wines
For those new to South African wines, here are some must-try styles:
- Chenin Blanc (Steen): A versatile white wine ranging from fresh and zesty to rich and oaked. depending on how it is handled this can appeal to fans of fruity Sauvignon Blanc or rich Chardonnay.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and aromatic, often with tropical fruit and herbaceous notes. This sits in between the lean, French style and bold wines of New Zealand
- Pinotage: South Africa’s signature red, offering bold flavours of dark fruit, smoke, and spice.
- Shiraz (Syrah): Often full-bodied with peppery, smoky notes.
- Bordeaux-Style Blends: Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends from Stellenbosch and Paarl are world-class. (See one of our favourites from Waterkloof below)
- Cap Classique: South Africa’s traditional-method sparkling wine, perfect for celebrations.
Where Are South African Wines From?
A Brief History of South African Wine
South African winemaking dates back to 1659 when Dutch settlers planted vines at the Cape. Over time, the industry faced challenges, including phylloxera, Apartheid-era isolation, and economic struggles. However, since the 1990s, a renaissance has seen South African wines gain global recognition, thanks to investment, improved techniques, and a renewed focus on quality.
Key Wine Regions
Stellenbosch: The Heart of South African Wine
- Known for: Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux blends, Chenin Blanc, Pinotage
- Climate: Mediterranean with cooling sea breezes
- Notable producers: Kanonkop, Rust en Vrede, Meerlust
- Signature style: Rich, structured reds with ageing potential
Swartland: Innovation and Rhône Varieties
- Known for: Syrah, Grenache, Chenin Blanc
- Climate: Hot and dry with old-vine plantings
- Notable producers: Eben Sadie, Mullineux & Leeu
- Signature style: Bold, textured wines with minimal intervention
Elgin: Cool-Climate Excellence
- Known for: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir
- Climate: High-altitude, cool temperatures
- Notable producers: Iona, Paul Cluver
- Signature style: Elegant wines with bright acidity and finesse
What the best South African Wines to try?
Our Buyer Nic has chosen his favourite South African wines from our range.
Andreas Syrah
"This is an outstanding wine from a tiny estate. It's really gorgeous rich and powerful but not overblown - just well made and gets better with every new vintage. One to have with something special."
KWV The Mentors Chenin Blanc
Izele van Blerk is the creative winemaker behind The Mentors – a premium wine range that reflects the diversity of the soils and climate in South Africa. The grapes for this wine come from 52 year old bush vines in Roodrai. This is a wine resplendent with aromas of ripe mango, concentrated apricot, honeysuckle and jasmine. The creamy and textured palate shows hints of dried peach and zesty lime, with good length, rich flavours and freshness. A seriously delicious and well-made wine.
Laborie, Blanc de Blancs Cap Classique 2018
"This is a delightful fizz that showcases the quality and finesse of South African sparkling wines. It is fresh, but rich and indulgent with a lot of complexity from the long lees ageing. A perfect choice for any celebration or occasion."
Waterkloof Boreas 2020
"We love Waterkloof, and this is their top label for the very best fruit they have to offer. It’s a brilliant wine and excellent value considering its complexity and ageing potential. I'd enjoy this with something hearty and share it with someone special."
The Best Food Pairings for South African Wines
South African wines are incredibly food-friendly, making them ideal for pairing with the country’s bold flavours. From world-class seafood to the smoky, chargrilled delights of a braai - South Africa’s traditional barbecue, where meat, fish, and even vegetables are cooked over an open flame - there’s a perfect wine to match every dish.
White Wines
- Chenin Blanc -With its bright acidity and fruit-forward character, Chenin Blanc is a versatile choice. It pairs beautifully with seafood, balancing richness while enhancing delicate flavours. It’s also excellent with creamy dishes and gently spiced curries.
- Sauvignon Blanc -Zesty and refreshing, Sauvignon Blanc’s crisp acidity cuts through the richness of oysters and grilled fish. It also brings out the freshness in salads and complements lighter, citrusy dishes.
- Grenache Blanc -Grenache Blanc, with its fuller body and textured mouthfeel, stands up well to bolder spices, making it a great match for Cape Malay-style seafood. It also pairs beautifully with rich, creamy shellfish dishes.
Red Wines
- Pinotage -Pinotage, South Africa’s signature red, has a smoky, fruity depth that enhances the charred flavours of a braai. It works particularly well with spiced or marinated meats, making it a must-have for grilled dishes.
- Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah Blends - Big, structured, and full-bodied, these blends are ideal for rich red meats. The tannins cut through the fattiness of lamb and steak, while the wine’s complexity pairs well with gamey venison.
- Cinsault -Lighter and fruitier than Cabernet, Cinsault offers bright red berry notes that work well with smoky peri-peri chicken, pork belly’s richness, and grilled vegetables.
Sparkling Wine
- Cap Classique -South Africa’s answer to Champagne, Cap Classique has fine bubbles and crisp acidity, making it a fantastic match for salty, savoury, and spicy foods. Whether it’s fresh seafood, cured meats, or spicy snacks, this elegant fizz adds a celebratory touch.
From the braai to the ocean’s finest seafood, South African wines offer incredible pairing potential. Whether you prefer a crisp white, a bold red, or a sparkling Cap Classique, there’s a perfect match for every dish.
South African wine is a testament to resilience, creativity, and quality. With its diverse regions, historic roots, and innovative spirit, the country continues to captivate wine lovers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, there’s a South African wine to suit every palate and occasion. Cheers to exploring the wines of the Cape!
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