Must-Try Wines from South Africa’s Top 10 Wine Regions

The Western Cape in South Africa boasts thousands of vineyards that produce some of the world’s finest drops. But with nearly 3,000 wineries, knowing what to taste and where can be overwhelming. Let’s dive into the must-try wines from 10 of South Africa’s top wine regions.

Top 10 South African Wine Regions and Their Must-Try Wines

Kicking off our wine adventure in the heart of the Winelands. Stellenbosch is a region that’s synonymous with South African wine itself.

Stellenbosch

If you’re keen to try South Africa’s signature grape: Pinotage, Stellenbosch is the place to go. A cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, Pinotage offers unique flavors and is often described as a mix of red fruit, smoky notes, and even hints of coffee. It pairs beautifully with sweet treats, so a chocolate and wine pairing is a must!

• Must-try: Pinotage
• Must-try wineries: Lanzerac Wine Estate, Rust en Vrede Wine Estate, Meerlust, and Waterford Estate.

Now, let’s trade the robust flavors of Stellenbosch for something a bit more elegant, as we venture into the picturesque valley of Franschhoek.

Franschhoek

Franschhoek is known for its elegant wines and charming atmosphere. While you’re here, be sure to sample the Méthode Cap Classique (MCC), made using the same traditional methods as Champagne.

• Must-try: Méthode Cap Classique
• Must-try wineries: Boschendal, La Motte, Eikehof Wines.

From the streets of Franschhoek to a winemaker playground, Paarl offers diverse growing conditions that allow it to produce excellent red and white wines.

Paarl

Paarl offers diverse growing conditions that allow it to produce excellent red and white wines. This region’s terroir is ideal for robust red blends and fruit-driven white wines with tropical notes.

• Must-try: Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay
• Must-try wineries: Babylonstoren, Nederburg, Fairview.

If you’re ready to step off the beaten path and explore some truly unique wines, Swartland will intrigue your taste buds.

Swartland

The drier conditions of Swartland produce smaller grape berries with increased concentration and flavor. This leads to robust wines, particularly Shiraz and Chenin Blanc.

• Must-try: Shiraz and Chenin Blanc
• Must-try wineries: Swartland Winery, Mullineux Winery, Kloovenburg Wine & Olive Estate.

Let’s take a step back in time and explore Constantia, a region that’s not only beautiful but also steeped in South African wine history.

Constantia

As the oldest wine-growing region in South Africa, Constantia has a rich history and a reputation for producing exceptional wines. Famed for its sweet Vin de Constance, a dessert wine, the region also excels with Sauvignon Blanc.

• Must-try: Vin de Constance and Sauvignon Blanc
• Must-try wineries: Groot Constantia, Buitenverwachting, Beau Constantia.

Leaving behind the historic vineyards, we’ll move toward Hemel-en-Aarde, a region that’s making a name for itself with its cool-climate elegance.

Hemel-en-Aarde

One of the most exciting and beautiful wine regions in South Africa, Hemel-en-Aarde – Afrikaans for “Heaven and Earth” – is known for its elegant, cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

• Must-try: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
• Must-try wineries: Creation Wines, Bouchard Finlayson Winery, and Ataraxia Wines.

Let’s head inland to Robertson, a region that’s known for its warm, sunny climate and reliably excellent wines.

Robertson

Known as the “valley of wine and roses,” Robertson is a reliable source of high-quality wines. The region’s warm climate is ideal for producing rich and flavorful wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.

• Must-try: Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz
• Must-try wineries: Zandvliet, Graham Beck, Springfield Estate Winery.

Our next stop offers a distinct microclimate and unique wine experiences, Somerset West is often considered a hidden gem.

Somerset West

Often considered a hidden gem, Somerset West enjoys a cool climate thanks to its proximity to the Helderberg mountains. The region produces elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-style blends, and crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

• Must-try: Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-style blends, and Sauvignon Blanc.
• Must-try wineries: Vergelegen Estate, Cavalli Estate, Morgenster Estate.

Just a short drive from the bustling city of Cape Town, we find Durbanville.

Durbanville

A flourishing wine region with rolling hills and maritime influence makes it ideal for Sauvignon Blanc, which often displays vibrant acidity and herbaceous notes. You’ll also find excellent examples of Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Must-try: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Must-try wineries: Klein Roosboom Boutique Winery, Diemersdal Wine Estate, De Grendel Wine Estate and Restaurant.

Finally, we head to a region that plays a vital role in South Africa’s overall wine industry, Worcester.

Worcester

Worcester plays a vital role in South Africa’s wine industry. It’s recognized for Chenin Blanc and fortified wines like Hanepoot, and it’s a major producer of grapes used in Brandy production.

• Must-try: Chenin Blanc and Hanepoot (fortified wine)
• Must-try wineries: Vergelegen Wine Estate, Nuy Winery, Aan de Doorns Cellar.

Plan Your South Africa Wine Tour

South Africa’s Winelands offer a diverse and delightful experience for every wine enthusiast. Each region brings its own unique character to the table – but all produce exceptional wines. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your wine journey, take the time to explore these incredible regions and discover the magic of South African wine.

Ready to explore? Check out our best time to visit South Africa’s winelands guide to start planning your journey through South Africa’s breathtaking wine country.