Region · Western Cape, South Africa
Stellenbosch
STEL-en-bosh
The Cape's classic cellar
What should I drink from here?
South Africa's most decorated district: Cabernet, Chenin, Syrah, and a mountain amphitheatre that keeps nights cool.
- blackcurrant
- fynbos
- citrus
- smoke
- cedar
Stellenbosch Cabernet can be Bordeaux-structured with fynbos (wild shrub) in the perfume. Chenin from old bush vines is the Cape's gift to the white-wine world. Swartland next door is the radical, whole-cluster, concrete sibling.
Pinotage belongs here when it is good. When it is not, drink the Chenin.
Braai, snoek, and roast lamb.
At the table
Service
Reds 61–64 °F (16–18 °C); Chenin 48–54 °F (9–12 °C).
Places
Go see Cape Winelands.
Stellenbosch, Paarl, Constantia, and the Hemel-en-Aarde ridge. Mountains, then the cold coast.
Tasting rooms and itinerary
