South Africa

South Africa’s - New World with Old Legacy

South Africa has a rich tradition of winemaking that intertwines Old World heritage and new world innovation that yields some beautiful South African wines that now compete and shine on the global map. Taste selections of South African wines from historic regions such as Stellenbosch or Swartland, rich Cabernet Sauvignon and structured blends from Stellenbosch or glorious Syrah that incorporates the influence of Rhone with noted nuances of black pepper and violets from Swartland.

Indulge in the rich fullness of Cabernet Sauvignon from Paarl, grown in sun drenched soils with granite underpinnings, or experience the refined ease of the Shiraz blend, as dark fruits, spicy notes, conjoined with velvety, plush bodies reminiscent of sleeping with a full bodied wine comprised and blended of Shiraz; of course one must experience South Africa's signature wines of glorious Pinotage; where deep, dark notes of smoky plum and gentle notes of coffee shine on top of immensely unique wines that pour a deep smokey purple; not to mention the ever versatile Chenin Blanc with those crisp refreshing citrus blends during the heat of summer.

Featured Regions

Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is South Africa's most famous and influential wine region, located about 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Cape Town. It is the epicenter of the country's wine research, education, and viticulture, and it produces more of South Africa's top-tier wines than any other area thanks to the mountainous terrain, diverse soils and Mediterranean climate. Here produces the best Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux Blends and Pinotage.

Paarl

Paarl is a major wine district located in the Western Cape, and is the third oldest wine region in South Africa. The town of Paarl lies at the foot of its namesake, the imposing granite outcrop of Paarl Mountain ("Pearl Mountain"), which glistens like a pearl after the rain. Slightly warmer and drier than Stellenbosch, Paarl produces wines which result in riper, fuller-bodied, and robust red wines.

Swartland

Swartland, meaning "Black Land" in Afrikaans, was known as the breadbasket of the Cape, a source of high-quality grapes that were often trucked to co-ops or larger wineries in other regions. Gradually, Swartland has built its reputation for quality Syrah and Chenin Blanc. Mediterranean climate and complex geology, and the respect for old vines are key to the New South African wine style.

Walker Bay

If Stellenbosch is the "Bordeaux," and Swartland is the "Rhône," then Walker Bay is undoubtedly South Africa's "Burgundy." The Benguela Current, which flows up from Antarctica, brings icy cold water to the coast, together with the clash between the warm inland air and the cold ocean are perfect conditions for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Constantia

Constantia is a small, prestigious wine region nestled in a lush, green valley at the eastern foot of the Table Mountain range, right within the city of Cape Town. It is the oldest wine region in South Africa, with a history of winemaking dating back to 1685. Constantia's global reputation was built in the 18th and 19th centuries on a single, legendary sweet wine, Vin de Constance. Apart from dessert wine, Constantia is equally renowned for cool-climate whites like Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.