Introduction:
When you think of great wine countries, many people immediately think of France, Italy and Spain. But if you look just a little south of the equator, you’ll find a wine country that delivers fantastic quality, lots of personality – and often at prices that make you feel like you’ve scored a bargain. Welcome to South Africa!
Here are 5 reasons why South African wine deserves a place on your dinner table – and one bonus factor that you (maybe) didn't know about.
🍇 1. The world's oldest wine route
It may sound strange, but South Africa actually has one of the world’s oldest wine routes. The Cape Winelands were founded in the 17th century, meaning that you’ll find wineries with more history than many European vineyards. Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek are some of the most iconic areas – and the landscape is almost Disney-like with mountains, vineyards and colonial buildings.
☀️ 2. A climate that vines love
South Africa has what is known as a Mediterranean climate – plenty of sunshine, but also cool sea breezes and dramatic temperature drops at night. This provides perfect conditions for growing grapes with both ripe fruit and fresh acidity – a combination that makes the wines both powerful and elegant.
🍷 3. Pinotage – the grape you never forget
South Africa is the only country to have Pinotage as its signature grape. It’s a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, created in 1925 – and the result is a wine that divides the waters: dark, powerful, slightly smoky and with notes of both dark berries and licorice. If you like wine with edge and character, then you have to try a Pinotage.
💰 4. A lot of wine for the money
Because South African wine is still a bit underrated in Denmark, you often get really good quality at a reasonable price. Here you get wines that can easily compete with top European wines in style and complexity – just without the high price tag.
🌱 5. Sustainability and social responsibility
Many South African producers today work with sustainable wine production, ecology and social responsibility – for example through Fair Trade certifications and projects that support local workers’ families and communities. This means that you don’t just drink good wine – you drink with a clear conscience.
🥂 Bonus: Champagne? No – MCC!
South Africa has its own answer to Champagne: Méthode Cap Classique (MCC). It’s sparkling wine made using exactly the same method as Champagne – fermentation in the bottle, long aging and fine little bubbles – just with a local twist and often at a much lower price. Try one – and you’ll be surprised at how much “party” you get for your money.
Conclusion:
There is something special about South African wine. It combines the best of the “old wine world” with the fresh and experimental of the new. So the next time you are choosing a wine for your food, your guests or just yourself – take a look south.
You won't regret it.