At the southernmost tip where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet, this unique wine region boasts an extraordinary climate, affected by cool maritime influences that allow for slow ripening of grapes. Renowned for having the southernmost vineyards on the African continent, Agulhas wine farms are scattered across a vast distance, from Gansbaai to the west, coastal Cape Agulhas in the south and across to Malgas in the east. The region produces wines with exceptional acidity and minerality, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, offering a distinct terroir-driven experience. The area's rugged beauty, dramatic coastlines, and the blend of maritime and viticulture elements provide a unique and enriching exploration for wine lovers.

The San community called the area ‘Gouga’, meaning ‘abundance of fat’. This referred to the commodity they produced and sold here – butter – or ‘botter’ in Afrikaans. The river then became known as the Bot River. Situated in a valley encircled by scenic mountains, this enchanting wine region is known for its cool-climate vineyards. Producing wines of distinct character, especially notable for Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc, it represents a hidden treasure for wine enthusiasts. Its natural splendour combined with rustic charm and a sense of undiscovered authenticity make it an irresistible destination for those seeking off-the-beaten-path wine experiences.

The Breedekloof wine district includes the Rawsonville, Slanghoek, Goudini and Breede River areas. The west and south-west of Breedekloof borders the Slanghoek and Du Toitskloof Mountains and its north-eastern part is covered by the Hex River Mountains.The Breedekloof is characterised by a great combination of terroirs, with soil types varying from deep, heavy black soils to sandy shale soils in old river beds. This unique soil and climate combination makes it a favourable terroir for wine production. The Valley receives an annual winter rainfall of +- 700mm, which classifies it as a high rainfall area in South Africa. One-fifth of all South Africa’s Chenin is planted in the Breedekloof Valley. The Breedekloof Wine Valley is the home of generations of winemakers, with most farms proudly owned by sixth to seventh-generation families.

The Constantia Valley, nestled in the southern suburbs of Cape Town, is renowed as being the birthplace of the South African winemaking industry. It is one of South Africa's most picturesque wine regions, blending historical charm with breathtaking natural beauty. This small, affluent area is celebrated for its dense, meticulously maintained vineyards that sprawl over rolling hills, with the imposing backdrop of the Table Mountain Range providing a stunning visual contrast. The region's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean brings cool sea breezes that temper the climate, ideal for the growth of grape varieties that thrive in cooler conditions.

Situated to the north of Cape Town, Darling offers a distinct visual charm characterized by its rustic tranquility and the vivid contrast of its wild coastal geography. This area is famous for its sprawling vineyards that are less densely packed than in more established wine regions, allowing for broad, open landscapes that capture the rugged beauty of the Western Cape. The vineyards here benefit from the cool breezes of the nearby Atlantic Ocean, creating ideal conditions for producing intense, aromatic wines.

Farming began in the area now known as Durbanville in late 17th Century. Blessed with a fresh water spring, the area was a preferred resting stop for weary travellers. It was during this period of the late 1600s that the Dutch East India Company allocated lands here to European settlers, who began planting the first vines.

Originally known as a ‘Pampoenkraal’, the town’s name was changed in the 1830’s to ‘D’Urban’, in honour of Sir Benjamin d’Urban who was the Governor of the Cape Colony at the time. Several of these original farms still produce wines and visiting Durbanville offers a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage of the area. Durbanville is renowned for its cool climate Sauvignon Blanc, however also grows a wide variety of other white and red cultivars including Pinotage, Shiraz, Merlot and Chardonnay.

Elgin’s terroir is best suited to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with other cultivars such as Shiraz and Merlot also growing in the area. Such is the uniqueness and quality of grapes from Elgin that several other winemaking regions import grapes from here to add fruity complexity and minerality to their own region’s wines. Part of the Overberg’s ‘Cape Floral Kingdom’, this area is renowned for being one of the world’s most diverse biospheres. Elgin was largely underdeveloped until the late 1800s until the arrival of Sir Antonie Viljoen, who in 1898 planted the first apple trees. To this day, 60% of the national apple crop comes from Elgin. It was also here in 1966 that the drink ‘Appletiser’ was created, now exported heavily around the world.

Translated from Dutch as “French Corner”, Franschhoek was so-named due to the influx of French Huguenots who settled here in 1685. Many of these pioneers established the first wine farms in the area and over generations, retained many elements of their French culture. This rich heritage is still evident today across Franschhoek's wine farms, with their ornate architecture, centuries-old winemaking, and European cuisine. With its warm climate, varied elevation and proximity to nearby mountains, the Franschhoek Wine Valley is ideally suited to full-bodied reds including Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Merlot, plus fruit-driven whites such as Chardonnay, Semillon and Chenin Blanc.

The region stretches along a dramatic coastline dotted with pristine beaches and ancient forests that give way to gently rolling hills and occasional vineyards. The vineyards here, though sparse, are often small and boutique in nature, carefully integrated into the existing natural beauty, making the Garden Route a visually stunning and ecologically rich area for wine enthusiasts seeking a scenic and serene experience.

The Greyton wine region in Western Cape, South Africa, is a picturesque area known for its boutique vineyards and cool-climate wines. Nestled in the foothills of the Riviersonderend Mountains, this region offers a unique terroir that produces elegant and refined wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Greyton’s tranquil setting and artisanal approach to winemaking make it a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic South African wine experience.

Hermanus, primarily renowned for its whale watching, also boasts a lesser-known yet remarkably scenic wine region, part of the broader Walker Bay wine district. This area combines the dramatic beauty of the South African coastline with the refined charm of its vineyards. Nestled between the Kleinrivier mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the vineyards in Hermanus benefit from the cool maritime breezes, which are ideal for producing excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, varieties that thrive in cooler climates.

This region stretches along the expansive Klein Karoo valley, bordered by the majestic Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains. The vineyards here are more sparsely distributed compared to the lush vineyards of more temperate regions, reflecting the challenging climate and drier conditions. The natural beauty of Klein Karoo is stark and compelling, with vast open spaces that emphasize the dramatic sky and mountain silhouettes. The area's sparse vegetation is punctuated by hardy fynbos and occasional bursts of vibrant wildflowers that bloom in season, adding splashes of color against the earthy tones of the soil.

The KwaZulu-Natal wine region in South Africa is a unique area known for its subtropical climate and diverse wine production. Located in the eastern part of the country, this region features rolling hills and lush landscapes that contribute to the cultivation of distinct wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah. The emerging wine industry in KwaZulu-Natal is characterized by innovative practices and a growing reputation for quality and diversity in its offerings.

The vineyards in the Northern Cape are often isolated, surrounded by the raw, natural beauty of the desert environment. This isolation lends a unique charm, as the vines appear as lush oases against the backdrop of sparse vegetation and dramatic, often stark geological formations. The Orange River, a vital life source for this region, snakes through the arid land, creating corridors of greenery and providing the necessary irrigation to sustain viticulture in such a challenging climate.

Surrounded by a mountain range that glistens like a pearl under the sun, this revered wine region is notable for its warm climate viticulture. Paarl is filled with a rich history. Whilst it was originally known as ‘Drakenstein’, its current name is derived from the village which sprung up at the foot of Pearl Mountain, or ‘Pearl Rock’, in 1690.
Originally forming part of the district of Stellenbosch, it was proclaimed a separate division in 1839 and has always retained a strong connection to farming and winemaking. Paarl is the second oldest wine region in the country, with its first wine farm being founded in 1692, by the French Huguenots.


Plettenberg Bay's weather conditions are favourable for producing cool-climate wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cap Classique. The proximity to the ocean not only influences the climate but also adds a saline touch to the terroir, which can be noted in the crisp and aromatic profile of the wines produced here. Plettenberg Bay is the smallest wine growing region in South Africa. It is also one of the youngest, with the first grapes being planted in 2001. Plett obtained ‘Wine of Origin’ status in 2005 and there are now over 10 wine producers in the area.

The Robertson Valley, incorporating the areas of McGregor, Ashton, and Bonnievale, is a visually enchanting wine region in South Africa, known for its breathtaking landscapes and prolific vineyards. Nestled between the dramatic Langeberg and Riviersonderend mountain ranges, this valley is marked by a network of rivers, including the Breede River, which meanders through the area providing vital irrigation that supports the dense, lush vineyards sprawling across the valley floor.

Somerset West, located in the Helderberg area of the Western Cape, presents a stunning visual array deeply integrated with South Africa's winemaking heritage. The region is dominated by the dramatic Helderberg Mountain, which not only provides a majestic backdrop but also influences the local climate, beneficial for the cultivation of premium vineyards. These vineyards are lush and expansive, covering the rolling hills that slope gently towards the False Bay coast, offering breathtaking views of the sea.

This tranquil wine region, cradled by scenic mountain ranges, is a hidden gem known for its boutique vineyards and quality wines. Its rich soil and temperate climate yield stellar Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, among others. This serene locale pairs the appeal of unspoiled landscapes with quaint charm, offering an intimate and unique wine tasting journey.

Nestled beneath a majestic mountain range, this world-renowned wine region is cherished for its unique terroir and innovative viticulture, consistently producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinotage wines. Enriched by picturesque landscapes, historical architecture, and a vibrant food scene, it represents a holistic wine tourism experience where old-world charm and modern winemaking coalesce.

The visual aesthetic of Swartland is marked by its minimalist beauty, with vast horizons that stretch unimpeded across the landscape. The presence of occasional rugged mountains and the diverse fynbos vegetation add a natural, wild contrast to the cultivated fields. Traditional farm buildings, often with gabled roofs and made from local stone, dot the landscape, further enhancing the region's rustic appeal. Swartland's combination of natural beauty and agricultural productivity creates a visually striking and culturally rich wine region, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both the tradition and innovation in winemaking.

Tulbagh was established in the early 1700s and is one of the oldest towns in South Africa. In 1804 the town was officially named after Ryk Tulbagh, the former Governor of the Dutch Cape Colony. Many of the farms established in the valley cultivated vines from the start and from 1940 the serious production and export of wines began. Twee Jonge Gezellen was the first estate to introduce night harvesting to South Africa, with many wine farms in Tulbagh following suit. The geography of the Tulbagh Basin provides attractive and diverse viticulture conditions, with many different soil types found in the higher mountain slopes compared to the river plains. To the south, the valley is open to cooling breezes. This cool air is trapped by the surrounding mountains and helps to lower the daytime temperatures. Shiraz is the most-planted red variety in Tulbagh, while Chenin Blanc is the most important on the white wine scene. You can also expect to find Pinotage, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc when you visit a Tulbagh winery.

Originally known as ‘Limiet Vallei’ in the 1600’s (Border or Frontier Valley), in the early 1700’s the area saw an influx of Europeans, with the largest concentration of French Huguenot pioneers settling here. Famous for subsequently establishing a wagon industry, the valley soon became known as ‘Val du Charron’ (Valley of the Wagon Makers). The town of Wellington was formally established in 1840 and named after the Duke of Wellington, in honour of his victory in the Battle of Waterloo, 25 year prior. Wine has been produced here since 1906 when the Wellington Co-operative Winery and Bovlei Co-operative were established. The town lies in the heart of the Cape Winelands and having separated from the Paarl Wine Route in 2012, now boasts one of the youngest wine routes in the country: the compact Wellington Wine Route. With its warm and favourable Mediterranean climate, an abundance of sunshine and cool breezes from the mountains, Wellington has ideal wine growing conditions, particularly favouring red wine. A variety of cultivars are grown in Wellington, from Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, to Chenin Blanc and Viognier among others

The Namaqua West Coast wine region is a visually striking area, renowned for its dramatic coastal and inland landscapes that encapsulate the untamed beauty of the Western Cape. This region, extending from the cold Atlantic shores inland into the rugged, arid hinterlands, features sparse yet vibrant vineyards that are adapted to the harsher climate conditions. The visual contrast here is stark, with the deep blue of the ocean on one side and the stark, dry landscapes on the other, scattered with resilient vineyards that thrive under the intense South African sun. The region is especially famous for its spectacular wildflower displays during spring, when the usually stark landscape transforms into a carpet of colorful blooms, attracting visitors from all over.

The Wolseley wine region in South Africa is a small yet enchanting area nestled between the Breede River Valley and the Witzenberg Mountains. Known for its diverse microclimates, this region produces a variety of wines, with Chenin Blanc and Shiraz standing out for their quality and character. Wolseley’s picturesque vineyards, coupled with its rich agricultural heritage, make it a charming destination for wine lovers seeking a tranquil experience.

Worcester was founded in 1820 and British colonial administrator Lord Charles Somerset named the town after his eldest brother, the Marquis of Worcester. Dominated by the majestic backdrop of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the dramatic peaks of the Hex River Mountains, this region benefits from a rich viticultural landscape due to the Breede River Valley's fertile soils and agriculture flourished early on. Worcester and its surrounding areas have been producing wines for generations, and is nationally acclaimed for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc, as well as the lesser known Columbar. Craft breweries and distilleries can be found on various roads leading from Worcester into the country side.