South African Red Wine

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Not that many people tend to know much about the history of South African wines, in fact, whilst most ‘amateurs’ could probably name a famous brand of Australian or American wine, very few seem to be able to name a significant South African brand. However, that’s not to say that they aren’t there; in fact, look closely and you’ll find plenty of big names with a lot to shout about.

South African wine has a long history dating back to 1659 when the founder of Cape Town, Jan Van Riebeeck cultivated the country’s first vines. Although vines continued to be grown throughout the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the nineteenth and twentieth centuries were of course to have a great impact on wine and its production and consumption, particularly during Apartheid. But there are plenty of wine producing regions to take note of now, each with a significant contribution to red wine.

Elgin
Although predominantly a fruit growing region, the rich and fertile lands and cooler climates of Elgin are ideal for winegrowing. The Elgin Vinters is a partnership of six grape growers of the region who have literally combined resources to cultivate, produce and market their wines. Reds produced include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz. The 2nd Edition Shiraz 2006 has proved to be a great success with its distinctive black pepper, blackcurrants and spicy flavours. The Elgin Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 has likewise proved popular with its distinctive chocolate, raspberry and mulberry aromas.

Paarl
Found in the Boberg Region, Paarl is approximately 65km from Cape Town and is home to an extensive number of wineries. The town is overlooked by the Paarl Mountain from which it takes its name and which has the appearance of a ‘black pearl’ after it has rained. Despite the obvious natural feature, the region is relatively flat and the climate has proved ideal for the signature grape, Shiraz. The Anura vineyards, Ashanti, Simonsvlei and Vendome Wine Estate are just a few of the many successful wine producers of what has become fondly known as the ‘Red Route’ amongst wine fans travelling through the area.

Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is South Africa’s leading producer of wine and is home to many of the country’s leading estates. This University town is a stone’s throw from some of the continents most scenic landscape that remains green throughout the summer and irrigation is rarely necessary. The Devon Hill Valley is located just on the outskirts of Stellenbosch and boasts a state-of-the-art winery, Devon Hill, which has been specifically designed to blend in with the environment. The Devon Hill Cabernet Sauvignons 2002-3 have a distinctive earthy, meaty scent with a hint of eucalyptus leaves. The Devon Hill Merlot 2001 won the Silver Veritas Award, and Silver at the 2002 Michelangelo International Wine Awards – though this was quickly outdone by the 2002 vintage which won double gold at the Veritas Awards.

Constantia
Constantia is the cape’s oldest wine area, located on the east facing slopes of the narrow peninsular just South of Cape Town. Whilst the region is not particularly noted for its large volume of wine production, it can certainly say that it places quality over quantity. The Groot Constantia Merlot boasts a gentle berry and chocolate aroma and falling in at just under £12 a bottle, is not too exclusive. The Vin Constance Muscat has caused several ripples of excitement throughout the world and is certainly worthy of an inquisitive sip or two…!

Worcester
Just north of Paarl lies the beautiful region of Worcester which, whilst subject to low rainfall, has plenty of water thanks to the successful reservoir projects in the surrounding mountains which makes irrigation possible when necessary. In terms of volume, Worcester is the biggest wine producing region accounting for up to 25% of South Africa’s total volume, most of which can be found in the region’s 21 co-operative cellars and the 4 private estates. Brandy lovers might also find it worthwhile making a trip to Worcester as the area is noted for its quality spirits too.

Other noted wine regions include Robertson, Tulbagh, Swartland and Franschhoek, all of which have a number of exciting vintages which will no doubt continue to thrive in this ‘new world’ wine producing country. South Africa has made and will continue to make a significant contribution to the wine industry but just remember, you heard it here first!