South African Wine

What is South African Wine?

Coincidentally, South African wine is produced in the South African region which has a rich history of wine production. This dates back to the 17th century when Dutch settlers brought grapevines to the region. South African wine is known for its distinctive flavours and aromas, which are influenced by the region's unique terroir.

Not only this, but South African wine has gained a reputation for being high-quality as well as affordable, making it popular among wine lovers globally. However, wineries also share a commitment to sustainable wine production, with many of these practising eco-friendly farming and general winemaking techniques.

South African Wine Types?

South Africa is home to a wide variety of grape varietals, with their grapes being grown in different regions throughout the country. Each of these has its own soil conditions and unique climates that contribute to the flavours and aromas of the wines produced there.

Starting with one of the most popular types of South African wine, Chenin Blanc and its grapes are widely grown throughout the country. This wine is known for its crisp, refreshing flavours and aromas of citrus green apples and honey. When it actually comes to tasting these wines, they are often dry and medium-bodied, making them a versatile choice for a variety of dishes. If you're interested in trying this type of wine why not consider Rustenberg ‘John X Merriman’ Red Blend 2020 Half Bottle.

Another popular type of South African wine is Sauvignon Blanc. These wines are typically light-bodied and dry, with flavours of grapefruit and grass. Sauvignon Blanc wines are often enjoyed with light seafood dishes.

South Africa is also known for its red wines, particularly those made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz grapes. Cabernet Sauvignon wines are full-bodied and robust, with aromas of blackcurrants, cedar, and tobacco. If you're interested in trying this type of wine why not consider Rustenberg ‘John X Merriman’ Red Blend 2020 Half Bottle.

Shiraz wines are similarly full-bodied but tend to have more spicy flavours, as well as connoting black pepper and fruity aromas. Pinotage is also a popular choice for red wine enthusiasts due to its deep colour and ripe berried flavour. If you're looking to try a Shira from South Africa our Badenhorst Family Wines Red ​Blend 2019 Half Bottle is a fine wine.

South African Wine Regions

Some of the most famous wine-producing regions in South Africa include the Western Cape, which is home to the majority of the country's vineyards, as well as the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek regions. The Western Cape of South Africa is known for its Mediterranean climate, which is ideal for growing grapes and contains a majority of South Africa's vineyards.

The Paarl region is also home to some of the oldest vineyards in South Africa and is particularly known for its red wines. The previously mentioned Stellenbosch region is also a prestigious location on the Western Cape and has birthed some amazing Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz wines which we have already covered.

Overall, South African wine is an important part of the country's culture but has also grown to be enjoyed by wine lovers around the world. Its unique flavours and aromas, combined with its commitment to sustainability, make it a popular choice among connoisseurs.

Should you wish to test out any of these wines yourself, we stock a great range of high-quality South African wines here at the Little Fine Wine Company. We have a philosophy for selecting only the best wines, all whilst keeping them affordable for you to enjoy.