There are five major growing regions in South Africa, and the difference in soil and climate enables growers to supply the international market from November to May. The early season is dominated by products from the Northern Province and the valleys of the Orange and Olifants Rivers, followed by grapes from the Berg River Valley. The season concludes with the supplies from the Hex River Valley, a region where late-season varieties flourish.
Nothern Province
The Bushveld north and west of South Africa's famous gold fields produces South Africa's earliest grapes from November to mid-December. Within a stone's throw of Africa's big five, Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard, grape growers have established their vineyards in mild sub-tropical regions. The early summer and warm climate combine to produce early maturing varieties.
Orange River
Superior sweetness from the desert land! Water from the mighty Orange River, sunny winter days and hot, dry summers, vines that thrive in rich desert soils, all combine to produce the sweetest grapes imaginable. Thompson Seedless, Sugraone and crispy Flame form the bulk of the crop, with steadily increasing volumes of Prime, Regal and Crimson Seedless.
Olifants River
Elephants used to roam this valley. The river originates in the floral kingdom of the Cedarburg Mountains, from where pure mountain water flows down through lush valleys and kloofs before reaching famous Namaqualand West Coast.
Berg River Valley
The stark peaks of the Du Toitskloof Mountains stands guard over the Berg River Valley, one of South Africa's premier grape regions, and a valley rich in historical treasure dating back over more than 350 years. The Berg offers the water, and the Cape's famous mild Mediterranean climate helps to produce mid-season grapes of exceptional quality - Red Globe, La Rochelle, Bonheur, Thompson Seedless, and the old favourite, Alphonse Lavallee.
Hex River Valley
The Matroosberg towers above a valley that during autumn becomes a spectacle of rich, red and purple colours as the vineyards prepare themselves for the winter rest. Snow falls regularly on the Matroosberg and is central to a unique climate where South Africa grows its mid-season to late-season grapes - La Rochelle, Sunred Seedless, Crimson Seedless, Bonheur, Dauphine and the old faithful, Barlinka, all benefiting from slow maturing on the vine.
