About South African Wines from South Africa

About South African Wines from South Africa
Today, South Africa ranks as the eight largest producer of wine in the world. The wines however a still largely a secret, as there has not been a serious marketing push for these products. There are several excellent wine types, both white and red. For the former, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc have excelled, while for the red, international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are recent successes, joining the local variety Pinotage. The Chenin Blancs offer great varietal purity and are made in a dry to off-dry style. Sauvignon Blancs, especially those from the Western Cape or Stellenbosch areas, offering excellent varietal focus and impressive structure, have been critically praised. However, the reds, thought quite good, are less recognized, with Pinotage still a bit of a mystery as far as its image. Perhaps they producers will be able to get their message across soon about the quality of its wines, which will lead to better consumer recognition and additional sales.

Top Picks for South Africa

South African Wines

Reign Of Terroir 2024  Pinotage
92 points
$24
Best Buy
A grippy wine with red fruit on the palate and savory roasted notes on the finish.
92 points $24 Best Buy
Spier 2025 Signature Collection Chenin Blanc
91 points
$10
Best Buy
A juicy, silky Chenin with great flavor and structure.
Awards: 2025 Best Chenin Blanc
91 points $10 Best Buy
Kevin O’Leary 2025 Reserve Series Chenin Blanc
90 points
$25
A crisp, palate refreshing white wine that is a great aperitif and a perfect pairing for salads and spicy dishes.
Spier 2024 Seaward Chenin Blanc
90 points
$18
Best Buy
A lush and alluring oak-aged Chenin with rich, fruit and nut flavors and a long finish.
90 points $18 Best Buy