Viticulture & Regions Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is the total area of wine grape cultivation in South Africa?
About 95,000 hectares
This area is dedicated to wine production.
How many main geographical units is South Africa divided into for wine production?
6 main geographical units
These units include Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and Northern Cape.
What are the five regions within the Western Cape?
- Breede River Valley
- Cape South Coast
- Coastal
- Klein Karoo
- Olifants River
The Western Cape is a key area for wine production in South Africa.
What are the three types of climate classifications affecting wine quality?
- Macro-climate
- Meso-climate
- Micro-climate
These classifications vary in scale and impact on viticulture.
What type of soil is characterized by low nutrients and water retention?
Table Mountain Sandstone
This soil type is often found in certain wine-producing regions.
What influences a vineyard’s micro-climate?
Immediate climate around individual vines
It can be modified by viticultural practices.
Fill in the blank: The Breede River Valley focuses on the ‘big six’ grape varieties, which include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, ______, Merlot, Shiraz, and Pinotage.
Cabernet Sauvignon
What is the climate like in the Robertson District?
Mediterranean with low rainfall
Irrigation from the Breede River is essential due to dry conditions.
What grape varieties are predominantly grown in the Worcester and Breedekloof Districts?
- Colombar
- Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc
These are mainly quality and standard varieties.
What is the main grape variety produced in the Cape Agulhas District?
Sauvignon Blanc
This district is known for its maritime climate.
What is the annual rainfall in the Overberg District?
500 mm to 750 mm
This climate contributes to late ripening grapes.
What is unique about the Elgin District’s climate?
Cool with high rainfall (1000 mm annually)
It creates extended ripening time, enhancing acidity and flavor.
What types of wines are produced in the Klein Karoo region?
- Crispy whites
- Full-bodied reds
- Cape pot-stilled brandies
- Dessert wines
- Port-style wines
This region is known for its diversity.
What grape varieties are found in the Calitzdorp District?
- Colombar
- Chenin Blanc
- Shiraz
- Ruby Cabernet
- Merlot
- Portuguese varieties
This district is significant for its production of Port-style wines.
What is the climate in the Citrusdal Mountain District?
Low rainfall with a wide temperature range
Mostly dry-land farming with some irrigation.
What grape varieties are commonly grown in the Citrusdal Valley District?
- Chenin Blanc
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Merlot
- Pinotage
- Grenache
This area is characterized by its climate and soil conditions.
What is the primary viticultural practice in the Breede River Valley?
Irrigation and canopy management
These practices control vine growth and wine style.
True or False: The Walker Bay District has a Wine of Origin Status granted in 2004.
True
What type of soil is found in the Paarl District?
- Granite
- Shale
- Sandstone
- Alluvial soils
These soil types influence the grape varieties grown.
What is the significance of the Elim ward in the Cape Agulhas District?
It is part of the maritime vineyard area
This location influences the grape varieties grown there.
