South African wine producing units range in size from small to big: estate, wards, districts and regions.
The finest South African wines are produced in the Coastal Region, including famous winemaking areas: Constantia ward, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Walker Bay.
Constantia ward covers 750ha and is the oldest wine producing area in South Africa. It’s comparatively cool climate is ideal for Sauvignon Blanc to develop its aromatic character.
The University town of Stellenbosch is the centre of the country’s viticultural research. This district is also known for its concentration of great estates, producing the finest reds in South Africa, especially classic Bordeaux varieties and Pinotage.
The warmer district, Paarl, is the home of KWV (Koöperatieve Wijnbouwers Vereniging). Its biggest producer Nederburg made the Cape’s first botrytized wine using Chenin Blanc.
Further inland to the Breed River Valley Region situates famous wine districts Worcester and Robertson. The warm weather of Worcester helps to produce some of the country’s best fortified reds and white Muscadel, as well as dessert wines. Robertson, on the other hand, has long enjoyed a reputation for producing outstanding Muscats and bold Chardonnays.
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