Cape South Coast

• Pinot Noir: elegant and refined, with flavors of red cherry, cranberry, spice, and an earthy undertone supported by bright acidity; particularly expressive in Hemel-en-Aarde and Walker Bay.
• Chardonnay: vibrant and mineral-driven, showing citrus, green apple, and sometimes a creamy, almond-brioche complexity; available in both crisp, unoaked and barrel-fermented styles.
• Sauvignon Blanc: intensely aromatic, featuring notes of gooseberry, passionfruit, lime, and a signature coastal salinity; vivid acidity and herbaceous freshness, especially from Elim and Agulhas.
• Sauvignon Blanc–Sémillon Blends: complex and textural, merging tropical fruit and citrus with a waxy, layered depth; marked by cool-climate minerality.
• Syrah (Shiraz): cool-climate and spicy, with floral violet, white pepper, and black olive notes; elegant structure with moderate alcohol and silky tannins, especially on shale and slate soils.
• Chenin Blanc: richly textured yet lively, offering quince, honeysuckle, and brisk acidity; old vine examples from Bot River are especially noteworthy.
• Viognier: barrel-fermented and aromatic, blending ripe stone fruit and ginger spice with balancing acidity, particularly from high-altitude sites like Greyton.
• Riesling: zesty and aromatic, with flavors of lime and green apple; known for vibrant acidity and graceful aging, especially from Elgin.
• Pinot Gris & Gewürztraminer: grown in small quantities, producing fragrant and distinctive white wines.
• Bordeaux Reds (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon): limited but promising, with fresh acidity and elegant red fruit in select, warmer microclimates.
• Pinotage: lighter and fragrant in cooler areas, showcasing red fruit and floral notes that nod to its Pinot Noir heritage.
• Mediterranean Reds (Touriga Nacional, Mourvèdre, Grenache): savory and complex, crafted in pioneering fringe zones like Malgas, reflecting rocky soils and unique climates.
• Méthode Cap Classique (Sparkling): traditional method sparklers, predominantly from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, celebrated for fine bubbles, racy acidity, and brioche depth; also includes unique Sauvignon Blanc-based fizz from Plettenberg Bay.

The Cape South Coast, a gem at the southern tip of Africa, is deeply committed to sustainable winemaking, thanks to its location within the Cape Floral Kingdom, a global biodiversity hotspot. Here, vineyards are carefully integrated with nature, respecting the delicate balance of the environment and the rich diversity of native flora and fauna. Many vineyards participate in the WWF Conservation Champions program, focusing on biodiversity conservation and sustainable farming. Practices such as organic and regenerative agriculture are widespread, reducing reliance on chemicals by using natural solutions like cover crops and livestock for weed management. These efforts are recognized under South Africa's Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) program, which ensures over 90% of vineyards in the region are certified sustainable, allowing wines to display the Integrity & Sustainability seal as a mark of eco-friendly production. Winemakers in the Cape South Coast are constantly innovating, with some adopting biodynamic farming techniques, such as those that follow lunar cycles, to enhance vineyard health and wine purity. The region's collaborative spirit fosters a community dedicated to sustainable practices, with initiatives like the "Southernmost Vineyards" triangle promoting organic farming and conservation. Many wineries are committed to social sustainability, adhering to fair labor practices and supporting local communities. The region's dedication to sustainability not only preserves its breathtaking landscapes and unique terroirs but also ensures that its cool-climate wines continue to be crafted in harmony with the environment.

The Cape South Coast offers a wine tourism experience that is both intimate and diverse, characterized by its commitment to sustainable practices and a deep respect for the natural environment. This region, at the southern edge of Africa, presents a unique blend of scenic beauty and winemaking excellence. Visitors can explore boutique vineyards dotted throughout the landscape, enjoying cool-climate varietals that are as stunning as the surroundings themselves. The area's natural beauty is complemented by the dedication to preserving the Cape Floral Kingdom, ensuring that the breathtaking views remain untouched and that the wines produced are a testament to the region's harmonious relationship with nature. Wine enthusiasts will find the Cape South Coast a treasure trove of experiences, from guided vineyard walks to cellar tours that offer a peek into the winemaking process. The region's emphasis on minimal intervention winemaking allows its wines to express the rich diversity of the terroir, from the mineral-rich soils that enhance Syrah and Pinot Noir to the ocean-driven climate that shapes vibrant Sauvignon Blancs. Whether it's the thrill of spotting southern right whales off the coast of Hermanus or savoring farm-fresh meals paired with exquisite wines, the Cape South Coast promises a journey that nourishes the senses and deepens the understanding of what makes this region a rising star in the wine world.