South Africa is one of the most exciting wine countries right now, and one of the best value. It has more than 350 years of winemaking history, stunning vineyards set against mountains and ocean, and a new generation of winemakers producing world-class bottles. Whether you want a crisp white for a weeknight or a serious red for a special dinner, the Cape delivers.
The Cape winelands
Most South African wine comes from the Western Cape, where cooling breezes from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans temper the warm sunshine. The key areas include:
- Stellenbosch: the heart of the industry, best known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends.
- Swartland: home to bold, characterful old-vine Chenin Blanc and Rhône-style reds.
- Durbanville and Constantia: cool, coastal areas producing excellent Sauvignon Blanc.
- Elgin and Walker Bay: cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Chenin Blanc: South Africa’s signature white
South Africa has more Chenin Blanc than anywhere else in the world, including France’s Loire Valley where the grape originated. It ranges from crisp and fresh to rich and honeyed, with notes of apple, pear and quince.
Bellingham Pear Tree Chenin Blanc is ripe and juicy, and Durbanville Hills The Cape Garden Chenin Blanc is a great-value favourite. For a richer style, Rickety Bridge Chenin Blanc is lovely.
Pinotage: the Cape’s own grape
Pinotage is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, created in South Africa in 1925. It makes dark, smoky reds with plum and blackberry fruit, and it’s brilliant with a barbecue.
Durbanville Hills The Promenade Pinotage is smooth and fruity, and Mooiplaas The Bean Coffee Pinotage leans into the grape’s famous mocha character. For something more serious, try Simonsig Redhill Pinotage.
Stellenbosch Cabernet and Bordeaux blends
Stellenbosch makes structured, elegant Cabernet Sauvignon that can rival Bordeaux. Rustenberg Cabernet Sauvignon is classic and polished, Vergelegen The Mill Cabernet-Merlot is great value, and Warwick Blue Lady Cabernet Sauvignon is one for a special occasion. Alto Rouge is a long-standing Cape blend with a cult following.
-
Rustenberg Cabernet Sauvignon, South African Red Wine, 750ml
£16.45 -
Vergelegen The Mill Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot, South African Red Wine, 750ml
Original price was: £16.75.£14.45Current price is: £14.45. -
Alto Rouge 750 ml
£19.95
Cape blends and Rhône styles
A “Cape blend” usually includes Pinotage alongside Bordeaux grapes. Kanonkop Kadette Cape Blend from one of the country’s most famous estates is a superb introduction. Rhône-style blends based on Syrah and Grenache are also thriving; Nederburg The Motorcycle Marvel is a tasty example.
Sauvignon Blanc
South African Sauvignon Blanc sits between the zesty New Zealand style and the more mineral Loire style. Iona Sauvignon Blanc from cool-climate Elgin is excellent.
Sparkling and sweet wines
South Africa’s traditional-method sparkling wine is called Méthode Cap Classique. Pongracz Rosé is a fantastic, affordable alternative to Champagne. For something sweet, Nederburg Noble Late Harvest is a gorgeous dessert wine.
FAQs
Is South African wine good value?
Yes, it’s one of the best-value wine countries in the world at every price point.
What does Pinotage taste like?
Dark plum and blackberry, often with smoky, coffee or chocolate notes.
What’s the best South African white wine?
Chenin Blanc is the country’s signature white and offers incredible quality for the price.
See all our bottles on the red wine list and white wine list.