Swartland wine region

Blackland

The Swartland is a region of the Western Cape Province in South Africa that begins approximately 50 kilometers north of Cape Town. The area is far less well known among the tourists who constantly flock through Cape Town, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The climate - summers warm and dry and winters cool and humid - is well suited for growing wine. For a long time only wheat and tobacco were planted in Swartland, but this region is attracting more and more wineries - such as Allesverloren or AA Badenhorst.
The region got the name Swartland (Blackland) from its wide plains, which turn black after their winter rains.

Make

Swartland covers a large area. The Riebeekberg and Kasteelberg regions lie in the eastern part, while the Darling district separates the area from the Atlantic Ocean.
It is a beautiful, often underestimated region of rolling, golden wheat fields, deep river valleys and verdant vineyards. The climate is hot and dry, which is what the Winemaker use to their advantage.
The dry conditions reduce the risk of disease among the vines and the lack of water in the soil results in lower yields but more concentrated fruit, making the wines particularly desirable.
Wineries in Swartland specialize in producing rich, fruity wines, particularly from the Shiraz, Chenin Blanc and Pinotage grape varieties.

activities

The Riebeek Valley wine region is the center of Swartland. Peaceful hiking trails, horseback riding, as well as comfortable accommodation punctuate a visit there.
Fairytale houses, museums and the small theater also make Darling a worthwhile detour, which is surrounded by a carpet of flowers after the first rains in spring.
Its proximity to Cape Town makes the region well-suited to tourists interested in food and wine tasting.