South Africa Flashcards
What are three major climactic and geographical factors of South Africa?
- The cold Benguela current, which flows off the Atlantic and up the west coast of Africa
- The Cape Doctor: strong southeasterly winds
- The prominent mountain ranges, which offer lots of aspects
What is the most widely planted black variety in South Africa?
Cabernet Sauvignon
What is the most widely planted grape variety in South African?
Chenin blanc
What is Muscat of Alexandria known as in South Africa?
Hanepoot
What are the four different sizes of production areas in South Africa?
- Geographical Unit
- Region
- District
- Ward
- Estate Wines
Where is over 90% of the wine in South Africa made?
Western Cape
What is the climate of Stellenbosch?
Warm, with sufficient rainfall in the winter and cooling influences from False Bay, whose winds are funneled through mountains. Aspect, altitude, and soil diversity lead to successful grape growing
What are some primary grapes of Stellenbosch District?
- Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
- Syrah and Cape Blends (Pinotage)
- Cool sites: Chardonnay and SB
Describe the Paarl District
Further inland, with a hot climate moderated by cool nighttime temps. Cab Sauv, Syrah, and Pinotage all grown.
Describe the Constantia District
Warm climate moderated by the Cape Doctor. Some of the oldest vineyards in the Cape, especially known for Vin d’Constance–a late-harvest Muscat made by Klein Constantia. Vineyards are located on the eastern flanks of Table Mountain
Describe the Swartland District
Historically high-volume, inexpensive production area that has undergone a transition to producing high-quality, old-vine Chenin
Describe the Worcester District
Hot and dry area. Irrigation is important. Significant portion of grapes are Chenin and Colombard destined for distillation, but high-volume brands can source large volumes of quality grapes from here
Describe the Robertson District
Slightly cooler than Worcester because of south-easterly winds in the valley. Known for high volume brands, but some areas produce good Syrah and Chardonnay
What are the districts inside the Cape South Coast region?
Walker Bay, Elgin, and Cape Agulhas
What is Walker Bay known for?
Some of South Africa’s best Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Sauv Blanc, Merlot, and Syrah are also notable. Well-exposed to ocean, providing cooling winds.
