Cape Town Wineries

Posted by Cindy on July 13, 2009

Any time is a great time for tourists and travelers to visit the wine lands of Cape Town.  This is an environment that not only boast the warmth of the sun, but the cool breezes from the sea, coming straight on down from Antarctica.  Other than Europe, France and Spain most notably, the wine-lands of Cape Town are oldest, established areas for the vineyards and the production of wine in the world.  Could be true, that these regions in Africa may even be the most beautiful, with many top Cape Town hotels surrounding the region, there are plenty of opportunities to spend some time exploring and tasting.

The wine here is still moderately priced, even given the worldly knowledge of the winemakers, and the quality of the grapes.  The heat of the region tends to bring out the rich and warm flavors that only warm weather wineries are capable of producing.  Now, after the days of Apartheid, the wine industry in South Africa is changing and improving at a rapid rate.  For a while the sweeter white wines were cultivated, but the truth is that some of the boldest and the best of the reds are now coming out of this region.

In less than ten years, the makers in South Africa have achieved what it has taken those in Napa decades to accomplish.  New wine makers are the driving force in Africa currently, and what they have been producing is thrilling and exciting.  Some of the best varieties in Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet are now being produced in this region.  There is a bit of the French conservatism and restraint that has been fusing with the opulence of the New World ideas.  While Chenin Blanc is fading away, the whites produced in the region such as the Rieslings, the Chardonnays and the Sauvignon Blancs are becoming popular.

Many of the wine makers of South Africa welcome visitors, tasters, and suggestions.  One of the best regions to visit on a wine tour through South Africa is the Stellenbosch Winery.  This is located in a college town, offers many options for inexpensive dining, and they are making some serious wines.  The wines made here are elegant, and everyday, and when one wanders through the winery, one will be offered up a variety of cheeses as well.  This is one stop on a tour of tasting that is a must see, must experience location.