Publisher's Synopsis
Introduction
- South Africa: a new world for wine lovers
- The history of South African winemaking
- The main wine regions
- The most cultivated grapes
- The influence of terroir on South African wines
The Wine Regions of South Africa
- Stellenbosch: The best-known and most prestigious region
- Subregions and their styles
- Iconic producers
- Paarl: The land of full-bodied reds
- Unique Features
- Highlight for red wines
- Franschhoek: The boutique wine region
- Focus on quality and consumer experience
- Elegant and complex wines
- Other important regions: Swartland, Coastal Region, Constantia
- Brief description and characteristics of each region
South African Grapes
- Red grapes:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: the king of reds
- Merlot: elegance and softness
- Shiraz: power and spice
- Pinotage: South Africa's unique grape
- Other varieties: Mourvèdre, Grenache, Tinta Baroca
- White grapes:
- Sauvignon Blanc: freshness and citrus aromas
- Chenin Blanc: versatility and complexity
- Viognier: floral and perfumed
- Chardonnay: elegance and structure
South African Wine Styles
- Red wines:
- Full-bodied and tannic reds
- Elegant and fruity reds
- Unique blends
- White wines:
- Fresh and fruity whites
- Whites with body and complexity
- Sweet wines
- Rosé wines:
- Elegance and versatility
Wine Production in South Africa
- The winemaking process:
- Harvest
- Red winemaking
- White winemaking
- Barrel aging
- Sustainability in winemaking:
- Sustainable practices and certifications
- The environmental impact of wine production
South African Wine Pairing
- Red wines:
- Red meats, roasts, mature cheeses
- White wines:
- Fish, seafood, poultry, fresh cheeses
- Rosé wines:
- Salads, white meats, pasta
- Sweet wines:
- Desserts, blue cheeses
The South African Wine Market
- Export: Main markets and challenges
- Domestic consumption: South African consumer habits
- Wine tourism: Routes and experiences
- The future of South African winemaking
Conclusion
- South Africa as an emerging destination for wine lovers
- The main market trends
- An invitation to explore the world of South African wines