South Africa’s majestic mountainous landscapes aren’t the only thing that takes your breath away about the country – the country’s wines also show an exceptional range of flavours. By Joelle Thomson.
South Africa is the seventh biggest wine-producing country on Earth, so we might expect its winemakers to know a thing or two about how to capture great flavour in the glass. But why haven’t we heard much about South African wine in this part of the Southern Hemisphere until relatively recently?
The answer is the hangover – from apartheid. South Africa may be a beautiful country with incredible winemaking potential, but it has taken a long time to unshackle itself from the perceptions left behind by apartheid, even though that was dismantled over two decades ago now. How time flies. And since then, South Africa has emerged as one of the richest treasure troves of unexplored wines made from a wide range of grape varieties, from Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Merlot to Mourvèdre, Syrah and Touriga Nacional. Not to mention Pinotage and Pinot Noir.
Their growth is shaped by a wide range of climates, from arid inland regions such as Swartland to cool, elevated areas such as Durbanville, which benefits from cool ocean currents and chilling sea breezes that help moderate temperatures from getting too cold.
These three wines shine a light on the diversity of South Africa
Raats Original Chenin Blanc, $36
Chenin Blanc is one of the great white wines of the world – and so often forgotten as it trails in the dust of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc’s popularity. This 2023 is an excellent expression of Chenin made from vines grown in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch (the most famous South African wine region) by the Raats Family. Flavours of fresh citrus and lime combine with lifted floral and honey aromas, but in a dry, medium-bodied wine. This is a great match with fresh seafood.
Graze with: Ceviche with lime and basil – the citrus-driven profile of the food mirrors the wine’s freshness, amplifying the vibrancy.
Dine with: Thai green curry – Chenin Blanc’s fresh vibrancy cools the spice and highlights aromatic lemongrass and kaffir lime flavours.
Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block, $63
This 2024 Chocolate Block lives up to its name, from its seductive dark ruby colour to its cocoa-like aromas. South African-made and French-inspired, Chocolate Block takes its cue from the styles of wine made in the Côtes du Rhône appellation in the Mediterranean south of France. This means it’s a similar blend with Syrah (7 per cent), Grenache (11 per cent), Cinsault (6 per cent) and Viognier (1 per cent), with a twist - it also contains Cabernet Sauvignon, which brings structure and dark fruity depths of flavour. Delicious on its own and even better with the food choices here, which bring out the best in each sip of Chocolate Block. This wine is made from the hot, dry Swartland area.
Graze with: Charred capcicum and aubergine dip – plush silky textures and earthy flavours meet the wine’s plush texture and cocoa-tinged richness.
Dine with: Mushroom risotto with truffle - earthy flavours resonate with the wine’s Syrah-driven savouriness.
Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage, $43
Stellenbosch is the heart and soul of South Africa’s wine industry and home to the grapes in this distinctively savoury Pinotage. This 2023 wine shows a spectrum of delicious dark flavour notes, with lifted aromas of dark spice, black plums, macerated cherries, cedar, and juicy blackberry. It was fermented in open-top concrete fermentation tanks followed by ageing in French oak barrels.
Graze with: Spiced nuts with paprika - a playful match for Pinotage’s gentle spice and dark fruit appeal.
Dine with: Chargrilled venison steaks – smoky aromas in the wine echo the grilled, gamey flavours of the food, while acidity cuts through the richness.
Learn more about South African wines in New Zealand from Planet Wine.
The Beauty of the Cape Winelands: Style Director Louise Hilsz’s Favourite Vineyard Discoveries
After a two-week adventure exploring South Africa with my Mum and partner, we ended the trip in the beautiful town of Franschhoek — and it was the perfect finale. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, world-class vineyards and some of the country’s best restaurants, the Cape Winelands quickly became one of my favourite parts of the journey.
We spent two nights soaking up everything Franschhoek has to offer, from long lunches and wine tastings to exploring some of the region’s most beautiful estates. While every vineyard had its own unique charm, these were the ones that truly stood out.
Delaire Graff Estate
Delaire Graff Estate completely lived up to the reputation. Perched above Stellenbosch with breathtaking views across the vineyards, it feels like the ultimate luxury escape. From the incredible architecture and art collection to the gardens, dining and, of course, the wine, every detail has been thoughtfully considered. Even if you’re not a huge wine lover, it’s worth visiting just for the experience and is an easy stop as you make your way to Franschhoek. I drank the Delaire Graff Cabernet Franc Rosé 2026. This was the kind of rosé that makes you want to linger a little longer. Fresh, elegant and beautifully balanced, with flavours of strawberries and delicate berries, it’s crisp without being too light and has that effortless sophistication that Delaire Graff does so well.
La Motte
La Motte was a real highlight. From the moment you drive through the gates it has a beautiful, peaceful feel with its historic buildings, gardens and incredible attention to detail. The wine was wonderful, but the food was what really impressed us. Their bakery is not to be missed — we still talk about the baked cheesecake, which honestly was the best we have ever had anywhere. A place where you could easily spend an entire afternoon enjoying the wine, food and beautiful surroundings. I thoroughly enjoyed the La Motte Pierneef Atelier (Syrah Viognier) 2020. A beautifully complex red blend and a true expression of South African winemaking. Rich and elegant, with layers of dark berries, plums, spice and subtle floral notes from the Viognier. Smooth and refined with a beautifully balanced finish — the kind of wine that makes you slow down and savour every sip.
Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren was another unforgettable stop. More than just a wine estate, it’s a destination in itself. With its incredible gardens, farm-to-table dining, beautiful design and relaxed luxury, it feels like stepping into another world. Their famous Babylonstoren Mourvèdre Rosé has become something of an icon, even being chosen as the official rosé of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Sitting in the Tasting Room with a glass of rosé,s haring the Harvest Platter was one of those moments that perfectly captured the magic of the Cape Winelands.
Haute Cabrière
Then there was Haute Cabrière in Franschhoek, which was a personal favourite. With its spectacular mountain views and famous sparkling wines, it captures everything that makes the Cape Winelands so special. Our last night of teh trip I enjoyed Pierre Jourdan Belle Rose Cap Classique. A delicate pink sparkling wine with notes of strawberries and red berries, fine bubbles and a fresh, elegant finish. Light, sophisticated and the perfect wine to enjoy while taking in those incredible Winelands views.
Travel tip: Franschhoek is famous for its Wine Tram. The novelty was fun at first, but we found it was very slow to get around, and the vineyards were a bit touristy. You are better off booking a driver or Uber and going for quality over quantity.
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