In 1679, Simon van der Stel established Groot Constantia, a winery famous for its Constantia dessert wines. From that point until rather recently, the South African wine industry remained in flux. An appellation system was established in 1973 along the lines of other appellation systems used in Europe. Based on the geographical origin of the wine, the best-known appellations are Paarl and Stellenbosch. Although traditionally most of South Africa has been devoted to plantings of Chenin Blanc, in recent years, its red wines have received more acclaim than its whites.

Plantings of Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, show particular promise along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.


Paarl

The Paarl district includes Wellington, which has over 30 grapevine nurseries that find a brisk business in supplying cuttings to 90 percent of the South African wine industry. The area is also becoming recognized for the quality of its wine production. A large variety of grapes are grown in Paarl, of which Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Shiraz, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc have very strong potential.


Stellenbosch

The historical town of Stellenbosch boasts a winemaking tradition that dates back to the early 1600s. Today, there are nearly 150 winemakers in the area, all of whom can draw upon the unique resources of the viticultural and oenological department at Stellenbosch University. These winemakers produce excellent examples of almost all the classic grape varieties and are known for the quality of their blended reds.