This Wine Country Is Situated Between Two Large Oceans

South Africa is situated between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Its generally Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal spot for vines to flourish.

The wine areas of South Africa stretch over the Western and Northern Cape for 500 kilometres (310 miles) west to east, and 680 kilometres (420 miles) north to south. There are many macro climate and vineyard soil types influenced by unique geography, which includes several inland mountain chains and valleys.    

A unique dry gale force wind known as the 'Cape Doctor' occurs during the spring and summer months, having a generally beneficial effect on the vines — protecting them from diseases which depend on moisture.

The 'quality control' system of South Africa called 'Wines of Origin' (WO) breaks down the wine areas into 'geographical units' which are broken down into 'regions', then 'districts', and then into 'wards'.   

Constantia, a suburb of Cape Town, is the oldest wine producer in South Africa (circa 1650) while the 'almost as old' Stellenbosch area, a few kilometres east of Cape Town, is regarded as one of the most important.  

Paarl, Tulbagh, Robertson, Worcester, Swartland, Wellington and Walker’s Bay are among other important districts.

The main grape grown is the white Chenin Blanc or 'Steen'. Cabernet Sauvignon is the most planted red variety, though other international types are making headway.

The one true South African 'crossing' of Pinot Noir and Cinsault grapes called Pinotage can make a variety of wine styles depending on the winemaker’s whim.

In the last 10 or so years, South Africa’s wine prominence has grown remarkably, making it one of the most important wine countries in the Southern Hemisphere.

South African wine can be very reasonable. The white Two Oceans Sauvignon Blanc (LCBO #340380, $9.95) offers great quality and price ratios with gooseberry, herbal and citrus flavours. It would go very well with fish dishes, nuts, oriental food and shellfish.

The red Two Oceans Shiraz (LCBO #699249, $10) has flavours of plum, spice, cherry and vanilla, making it ideal with pork, stews, pizza and pasta dishes.

Some of my very favourites is Nederberg Winemaster’s Sauvignon Blanc (LCBO  #382713 $11.95)  which is herbal, citrusy, gooseberry in flavour; Nederburg  Winemaster’s Shriaz (LCBO #427527, $12.95) which has dark fruit flavours of plum and blackberry and Nederburg Cabernet Saurvignon ( LCBO  #111526, $12.95) having red and dark fruit flavours of plum, cherry and red currants as well as anise! Some fine wines at some great prices.       

Other inexpensive, good quality South African wines are Durbanville Hills Sauvignon Blanc (LCBO #22251, $11.95), Flat Roof Manor Pinot Grigio (LCBO #27128, $11.95), Fleur du Cap Chardonnay (LCBO #358960, $12.95) and Fleur du Cap Cabernet Sauvignon (LCBO #457101, $12.95). All are great with the above mentioned meals.

Enjoy.