Born in Stellenbosch in 1925, Pinotage is South Africa's very own contribution to the world of wine. Created by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsault, this proudly local grape has come a long way from its sometimes controversial beginnings. Today, winemakers are producing everything from light, fruit-forward reds to complex, age-worthy wines that command international attention. Use our handy guide to explore the best estates for discovering Pinotage, from pioneering producers such as Kanonkop and Beyerskloof to boutique cellars putting a contemporary spin on the variety.
From elegant Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to bold Cabernet Sauvignon, spicy Shiraz and world-class Chenin Blanc, the Cape has become one of the planet's most exciting wine-producing regions.
But did you know that South Africa's wine story began more than 350 years ago, in 1659, when the first grapes were pressed at the Cape by Dutch colonialists under the command of Jan van Riebeeck? It was a modest beginning for an industry that would, over the next three centuries, become one of the country's great success stories and a major draw for travellers from across the globe.
By the late 17th century, vineyards were flourishing on the slopes of Table Mountain, and Constantia's sweet wines eventually gained favour in the royal courts of Europe. The arrival of French Huguenots in 1688 brought new winemaking skills to the Cape, while the valleys of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl gradually developed into some of the Southern Hemisphere's most celebrated wine regions.
Today, South African wines compete comfortably with the world's best. From internationally acclaimed Chardonnay and elegant Cabernet Sauvignon to the proudly homegrown Pinotage, the diversity of wines produced across the Cape is extraordinary. Chenin Blanc, once largely destined for inexpensive everyday drinking, has emerged as one of the country's signature varieties, while Cap Classique sparkling wines regularly give their Champagne counterparts serious competition.
It's a success story shaped as much by the landscape as the people working the vineyards. Ancient granite soils, sandstone mountains, cooling Atlantic breezes and Mediterranean sunshine create a remarkable diversity of growing conditions. Add a new generation of ambitious winemakers, alongside established estates with centuries of experience, and it's little wonder that the Cape continues to attract international attention.
But the pleasure of discovering Cape wine goes well beyond what's in the glass.
Across the Winelands, hundreds of estates offer memorable experiences, whether it's a tutored tasting in a historic cellar, a leisurely lunch overlooking the vineyards or a guided walk among the vines. There are family-friendly farms with sprawling gardens and playgrounds, spectacular mountain estates with fine-dining restaurants, and boutique producers where you'll meet the winemaker pouring your next glass.
The only difficulty? Knowing where to start.
That's where Time Out comes to the rescue. From the best estates for tasting Pinotage or Shiraz to memorable wine-country picnics, restaurants and regional adventures, we've explored the Cape Winelands to find the experiences worth travelling for.
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