Our South Africa Red Wine
8 products
Free delivery on orders over 150€
Free delivery on orders over 150€
South Africa is often associated with breathtaking landscapes, iconic wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage. But did you know that it's also one of the world’s oldest and most dynamic wine-producing countries? With a winemaking history dating back more than 350 years, South Africa has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination for red wine lovers. Striking a balance between tradition and innovation, South African red wines offer a diverse array of styles and flavors just waiting to be discovered.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Stellenbosch, South Africa
If one grape captures the spirit of South African winemaking, it’s undoubtedly Pinotage. Created in 1925 by Professor Abraham Perold, Pinotage is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault (known locally as Hermitage). Unique to South Africa, this grape produces wines with a complex bouquet, often revealing notes of red fruit, tobacco, coffee, and sometimes even ripe banana.
Pinotage wines vary widely depending on the winemaker’s style. Some are light and fruity—perfect for casual sipping or an apéritif—while others are bold and full-bodied, ideal for hearty dishes like stews or a classic South African barbecue (the famous braai).
Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz are also major players in South Africa’s vineyards. These international varieties thrive under the country’s generous sunshine, producing wines that are both powerful and elegant.
South African Cabernet Sauvignon stands out with aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, and spice. Its firm tannins make it an excellent wine for aging. While often blended with Merlot to create Bordeaux-style wines, there are also exceptional single-varietal Cabernet bottlings to discover.
Shiraz (also called Syrah) is prized for its richness and generosity. In South Africa, it delivers notes of dark berries, pepper, and chocolate, with a fresh, vibrant finish. South African Shiraz wines are often more accessible than their French or Australian counterparts, yet still offer impressive complexity.
South Africa boasts a wide range of wine regions, each with its own personality. Stellenbosch, near Cape Town, is perhaps the most renowned, known for its structured reds, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage. The mountainous Franschhoek Valley produces refined, elegant wines, while the drier Swartland region has earned a reputation for natural and innovative winemaking.
Other regions worth exploring include Paarl, Walker Bay, and Elgin, each offering their own distinctive red wines. This variety of terroirs allows for an incredible diversity of styles, from light and fruity to powerful and concentrated.
South Africa is also a leader in sustainable viticulture. Many wineries have adopted environmentally friendly practices, such as the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) certification and the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative (BWI), which promotes biodiversity conservation. These efforts reflect the dedication of South African winemakers to producing high-quality wine in a responsible and sustainable way.
South African red wines are a true invitation to travel. From the one-of-a-kind Pinotage to local expressions of international classics like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, they offer a rich and varied tasting experience. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just curious to try something new, South Africa’s red wines deserve a place in your cellar.
Back to the South African Wines page.
