South Africa — A 350-Year Winemaking Tradition

How old must a wine region be to no longer be considered “new”? When it comes to wine, South Africa defies such simple classifications. Although often grouped with the “New World,” South African winemaking boasts over 350 years of history. As early as the 17th century, grapes were being pressed at the Cape of Good Hope, producing distinctive wines at the crossroads of European elegance and African wilderness.

A Unique Style — Neither Old nor New World

Rather than imitating others, South African winemakers have forged their own identity — bold, expressive, and deeply rooted in their terroir. The Western Cape is the beating heart of this production, offering an impressive diversity of styles:

• Powerful, structured red wines
• Fresh, vibrant whites
• Fruit-forward sparkling wines crafted in the traditional method
• Elegant, sun-kissed rosés

These wines have long travelled across oceans, carried on global trade routes, spreading South Africa’s winemaking reputation far beyond its borders.

A Blend of Terroirs and Heritages

South Africa combines European influences — notably Dutch and French — with a unique biodiversity found nowhere else in the world. Diverse soils, ocean breezes, and abundant sunshine give rise to expressive wines that balance depth and finesse.

Chenin Blanc, locally known as Steen, is the country’s flagship grape variety. But South Africa also excels with Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, and refined blends worthy of the world’s most renowned wine regions.

Key Information

• Region: South Africa (mainly Western Cape)
• Winemaking tradition: since 1659
• Main grape varieties: Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinotage
• Styles: powerful reds, fresh whites, fruit-driven sparkling wines, elegant rosés
• Influence: European and African, with a strong local identity