The art of winemaking - a look behind the scenes

South Africa has emerged as one of the most exciting wine regions in the world in recent years. Wine production here dates back over 350 years, and South Africans have developed a real knack for crafting premium wines over time. Vineyards stretch across picturesque landscapes, from the sun-soaked hills of the Western Cape to the cooler regions of the Cape Winelands. This diversity of climates and soils creates the perfect conditions for growing a wide range of grape varieties. We'll show you the journey from the grape to the finished bottle.

The winemaking process begins with the harvest of the grapes, which usually takes place between January and March. Here in South Africa, you can even participate in grape-picking events and pick grapes yourself – a great opportunity to experience the vineyard up close. After the harvest comes the crushing of the grapes. This involves pressing the grapes in various ways to extract the juice. Then, fermentation begins. During fermentation, the grapes turn into wine, and winemakers employ various techniques to influence the flavors and character of the wine. Oak barrels are often used to impart complexity and texture to the wine. The fermentation temperature is also crucial. Higher fermentation temperatures can lead to fruitier flavors. Once the wine has matured, it is bottled and can finally be sold.

Did you know that South Africa is known for unique grape varieties like Pinotage? This is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut and a true flagship of the South African wine world.

A highlight of your journey into the South African wine world should be a tasting. In the many wineries and cellars, you have the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of the winemakers' hard work. You can discover the aromas and nuances that make each wine so unique.

And don't forget to explore the breathtaking wine routes that wind through the landscape. The Stellenbosch Wine Route or the Franschhoek Valley Wine Route are just two examples. Here, you can not only taste great wines but also enjoy the stunning views and warm hospitality of the locals.

The art of winemaking in South Africa is a journey through taste and tradition. The winemakers here are passionate about their work and experimental, constantly finding new ways to produce exciting and high-quality wines. Whether you're looking for robust red wines or refreshing white wines, South Africa has something special to offer that delights wine lovers around the world. Well-known wineries like Holden Manz, Boschendal, Kanonkop, or Beau Constantia are just a few of the gems you can discover here.