South African Wine – A brief overview.
Starting in the early 16th century, South African wine has a long and illustrious history. The Dutch East India Company imported the first vines to the Cape of Good Hope in 1598. South Africa swiftly established itself as a significant wine-producing region, exporting copious amounts of wine to Europe. French Huguenot immigrants brought new grape types and winemaking methods to South Africa in the 18th century. Due to the abolition of slavery and the start of the Anglo-Boer War, the South African wine industry suffered during the 19th century. South African wine experienced a renaissance in the 20th century with the establishment of numerous new vineyards and wineries. The wine sector was subject to severe restrictions under the apartheid government, although they were gradually eased in the 1990s. South Africa is currently a significant producer and exporter of wine with a growing local market.
When it comes to exploring the world of wine, British enthusiasts have never been better positioned to experience something remarkable — South African wine. With its unique terroir, winemaking heritage stretching back centuries, and exciting contemporary producers creating world-class bottles, South African wine is carving out a well-earned place on UK wine lists, in independent wine shops, and on the shelves of adventurous consumers.
For UK wine lovers seeking diversity beyond the well-trod regions of France, Italy, and Spain, wine from South Africa offers an enticing blend of tradition, innovation, value and flavour. At our website you can find a wide range of great wines by clicking here
A Brief Introduction to South African Wine
The story of wine from South Africa is both long and fascinating. While the modern South African wine industry truly blossomed in the 20th century, its roots go back to the 17th century when Dutch settlers first planted vineyards in the Cape. Fast forward to today, and South Africa has firmly established itself as one of the world’s most dynamic wine regions.
Rich soils, dramatic mountain backdrops, cooling ocean influences from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and an abundance of sunshine create ideal conditions for grape growing. The result? A wonderfully diverse array of wines — from crisp, aromatic white wines to bold, structured reds.
Why should you buy wine from South Africa?
1. A Natural Partnership
The UK and South Africa have a longstanding trade relationship, and this extends deliciously into wine. wine from South Africa has been exported to the UK for decades, with UK sommeliers and wine buyers often among the first to champion emerging South African producers on the global stage.
That means British drinkers are already familiar with, and increasingly enthusiastic about, bottles from Stellenbosch, Paarl, Walker Bay and beyond. South Africa fills a sweet spot in the UK market: it’s high quality yet typically excellent value, perfect for both casual drinking and fine dining.
2. Styles for Every Occasion
Whether you prefer something light and refreshing, rich and complex, or sparkling for celebration, South African wine delivers with a range of wines and styles to suit all tastes.
- Chenin Blanc — South Africa’s most widely planted grape, known for its versatility. In the UK, you’ll find everything from zesty, dry Chenin Blancs to richer, more textured versions that pair brilliantly with British seafood and poultry dishes.
- Pinotage — A truly South African creation (a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault), Pinotage can be bold and smoky, fruity and fun, or beautifully balanced — a must-try for adventurous UK palates.
- Shiraz/Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon — Robust reds that stand up to hearty British fare like roast lamb and mature cheeses.
- Methode Cap Classique (MCC) — South Africa’s take on traditional sparkling wine, MCC offers fresh, fine bubbles and excellent quality at very competitive prices — ideal for everything from casual gatherings to Christmas and New Year celebrations in the UK.
South African Wine & UK Wine Culture
Wine from South Africa has a growing Presence in Restaurants and Bars
Across the UK — from London and Glasgow to Bristol and Manchester — South African wine is increasingly featured on wine lists. Restaurants and wine bars looking to offer something beyond the familiar French and Italian options are turning to South African producers, whose wines often bring refreshing alternatives in both style and price.
Whether it’s a crisp Chenin Blanc to pair with fish and chips, or a ripe, velvety Pinotage beside grilled meats, wine from South Africa is proving its versatility and crowd appeal.
Accessible Producers for UK Consumers
Many South African brands are now widely available in the UK. Major retailers and specialist wine merchants alike stock an expanding range of South African wine, from established names to boutique estates producing limited runs.
With online wine shops becoming increasingly popular, UK consumers can now discover stunning wines from regions like Wellington, Elgin, and the Swartland with just a few clicks. Subscription wine clubs and curated tasting boxes also often feature South African wine — exposing an even broader audience to its charms.
Food Pairing: Wine from South Africa Meets British Fare
One of the joys of wine exploration is discovering exciting food pairings, and South African wine partners beautifully with classic and contemporary British cuisine. It is not just about Biltong and other south African products.
Crisp Chenin Blanc goes wonderfully with fish and shellfish, goat’s cheese, or a fresh summer salad with herbs from the garden.
MCC sparkling wines are perfect with smoked salmon blinis, oysters, or even a traditional British afternoon tea with scones and strawberries.
Pinotage pairs with barbecued meats — think South African boerewors with a British summer grill — but also holds its ground with vegetarian stews and hearty meat pies.
Rich Shiraz/Syrah makes a fantastic companion to roast beef or lamb with rosemary and garlic — especially on cooler UK evenings.
Buying South African Wine in the UK
If you’re a UK drinker curious to delve into South African wine, here are a few ways to start:
Visit Tasting Events
Wine fairs and tasting evenings across the UK increasingly feature producers from South Africa. These events offer a chance to taste a range of bottles side-by-side and learn directly from winemakers or importers.
Join a Wine Club
Many UK wine clubs highlight international regions each month. Choosing one that features wine from South Africa can be a fun and structured way to explore styles you might not otherwise try.
Shop Online
Online merchants dedicated to South African wine, including www.southafricanwines.co.uk, provide easy access to wines that might be hard to find locally. They’ll often include tasting notes and food pairing suggestions to guide your choices.
Ask Your Retailer
Independent wine shops in the UK often have knowledgeable staff who can recommend wine from South Africa suited to your tastes and budget — so don’t hesitate to ask!
Wine from South Africa is freely available in the UK, although access to quality wines can be patchy. Our website www.southafricanwines.co.uk specialises in South African wine and is open online 24 hours a day.
We also sell a huge range of Australian wines and you can see our full range of wines by going to our Auswines website
