Western Cape

South Africa is divided into six wine-growing regions, including Western cape, reputed to be the only one producing quality wines. Western Cape is divided into five regions, including Cape South Coast and Coastal Region, which produce the finest wines, including Stellenbosh and Franchhoek. The Western Cape is in the south-west of the country between the Atlantic Ocean and imposing mountain ranges along the coast. Despite its location, it enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate with warm summers, cool sea breezes and frost-free winters. Mountain ranges create a spectacular landscape. Vineyards are planted on the sides of valleys and mountain foothills. Their location creates a panoply of meso climates, giving rise to interactions between heat and cool that are ideal for viticulture. Most vines are grown within 50 kilometers of the ocean. Soils are richly diverse, consisting of granite, schist, clay, sand, limestone and alluvium. Eight grape varieties occupy 75% of Western Cape vineyards. Grape production is 55% white versus 45% red. The main white grape varieties are Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Colombard and Chardonnay. For reds, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz (Syrah), Merlot and Pinotage (a cross between Cinsault and Pinot Noir) are the most widely planted grape varieties. Pinotage is emblematic of the region, as this is about the only place in the world where it is planted. Dominated by huge cooperatives, the country’s wine industry has historically favored the cultivation of high-yielding grapes for Brandy or low-end wine production. But in recent years, a growing number of determined winemakers have succeeded in giving the industry a new lease of life, creating quality wines that fully express the richness of the region’s varied terroirs. Small, artisanal producers in Stellenbosh and Franchhoek are crafting and exporting original, high-quality wines that are enthusiastically changing the way wine lovers perceive wine.