South Africa is considered to be a New World wine nation. Yet the history of winemaking in the region extends back more than 300 years.
The wines of Constantia were the favourites of European rulers from Napoleon to Frederick the Great of Prussia in the 18th century; and references to the wines were made in literary works by Jane Austen, Charles Dickens and the French romantic poet Charles Baudelaire.
South Africa is the world's ninth largest producer of wines. Chenin blanc (also known as steen), the traditional white variety, accounts for almost 20 per cent of vine plantings. Nowadays it is chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and sparkling wines made in the traditional method that are claiming international attention. Recently heard on the grapevine was that diehard traditionalist James Bond will be changing his allegiance from Bollinger champagne to Graham Beck Cuvee Clive in the next 007 movie.
For reds, cabernet sauvignon and syrah/shiraz are also garnering international medals. Pinotage, a uniquely South African variety, a cross between pinot noir and cinsault (from Hermitage in the Rhone Valley) is worth a taste. Its flavours range from savoury earthy to fresh raspberry, and it is known for its approachable style.
Stellenbosch
Best known for red wines. Cabernet sauvignon does extremely well here. It is worth doing a blind tasting between a Stellenbosch cabernet sauvignon and a Bordeaux blend. The similarities will be surprising.