Wine 101: South Africa

A land of rugged mountains, sweeping valleys, and jagged coastlines, South Africa’s breathtaking environment is also steeped in millions of years of ancient history, dating to the dawn of the human race. In contemporary times, it plays an integral role in the wine industry of the Southern Hemisphere.

When were the first South African grapes planted? Following European exploration in the 1500s and its colonization by the Dutch East India Company in the mid 1600s, the first bottle of South African wine was released by the founder of Cape Town in 1659.

Since South Africa’s introduction to the global wine industry, it has evolved into an internationally respected region, not only for its diversity of varietals and styles of wines produced, but also the country’s focus on terroir-driven viticulture, sustainable practices, and fair wage commitment that has fostered the advancement of cooperatives and educational programs to facilitate vineyard and winery ownership among the country’s black community.

In this class, we examine the landscape, geology, climate, and other natural influences that have shaped South Africa’s wine industry; Historical and viticultural practices that have adapted grape varietals and hybrids to the region’s unique environment; And, recent winemaking trends that are shaping its future path. We also sample nine distinct white, sparkling, and red wines and blends typifying the predominant styles available to contemporary wine consumers.