Winelands

The Cape Winelands region is part of the Western Cape province of South Africa. This world-renowned area has become known for its culture, terrain and in particular for the many award-winning wines that are crafted from its terroir. There are five regions in this specific geographical unit of the Western Cape, including the Cape South Coast, Klein Karoo, Olifants River, Breede River Valley and Coastal Region.

The area is distinguished by its rugged mountains and the series of multidimensional slopes near its coastline. Most of South Africa’s vineyards are located near the coast in riverine valleys, offering an ideal climate for the winemaking process. This region receives winter rainfall that measures up to about 1 000mm per annum - allowing the distinct plantlife to flourish and grow in abundance. Moving inland, the rainfall decreases significantly, which is reflected in the vegetation here consisting mostly of succulents and aloes.

The South African winelands include 29 diverse districts and 92 smaller wards. Presently, around 92 067ha of vines producing grapes are under cultivation, in an area of about 800 km in distance. The production zones of the Cape Winelands are segmented into demarcated wards, districts and units. This effective segmentation is implemented under the Wine of the Origin Scheme - a system that allows this region to cultivate and produce wine most optimally.

For more information on the Winelands of South Africa and regions, please click here