wine regions south africa

The Western Cape is the largest and most important of South African wine regions. This is divided into sub-regions including Coastal Region, Klein Karoo, Cape South Coast, Olifants River, and Breede River Valley.

Coastal Region

The Coastal Region is the longest established growing area in South Africa Wine Country. The vineyards begin close to Cape Town and extend north along the Atlantic Coast and east to the curve of False Bay. The greatest concentration of top wineries is located around the charming town of Stellenbosch, home to South Africa’s best-known wine estates. Strong, tannic red wines from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinotage are produced in the picturesque wine-growing region, which is shaped by the Cape and English traditions. Strong, fruity white wines also grow on the high slopes of the Simonsberg and the Helderberg.

Klein Karoo

On the eastern side of the Western Cape, Klein Karoo is a semi-arid wine-producing region, bordering Cape South Coast and Breede River Valley wine regions. These vineyards are located particularly high up in the areas of Montagu and Tradouw on the western border of the Klein Karoo, and are some of the most diverse of South Africa’s wine regions.

Cape South Coast

Cape South Coast wine region is located to the east of the Coastal region and surrounded by other important wine-producing regions such as Coastal Region, Breede River Valley, and Klein Karoo wine regions. This is one of the world’s most breathtakingly beautiful wine regions.

Olifants River

This wine region stretches from north to south along the valley of the Olifants River. The vine management techniques used here combined with modern winemaking methods means that the Olifants River region provides quality and affordable wines. 

Breede River Valley

The Breede River Wine Valley is the largest wine-producing region in the Western Cape Province in South Africa's wine country, consisting of close to 40% of the total vines planted in South Africa. The region houses a range of different vineyards, including small boutique wineries and larger cooperative wineries. For wine lovers, the Breede River Valley is a true wine paradise.

Constantia

Constantia is the oldest and best-known wine-growing region of South Africa wine country. Today juicy Sauvignon and Chardonnays are produced in beautiful traditional Cape Dutch estates.

Swartland 

Just a few kilometres north of Cape Town, Swartland is an area that stretches from the Atlantic coast to deep inland, and traditionally was known for very heavy, mature red wines. More recently, innovative winegrowers have settled here who produce fine, not overloaded wines. Red wines are made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsaut. Fresh, fruity white wines are produced from Chenin Blanc, Semillon, and Palomino produce.

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