South Africa has a ‘new’ wine region. The Government’s Wine and Spirit Board has finally approved the Cape South Coast designation encompassing Elgin, Walker Bay and upcoming region Elim.
Andrew Gunn of Iona Wines in Elgin was the force behind the change.
“I believe in time the Cape South Coast will be recognised as South Africa’s premium wine producing area for many varieties as the inland areas become hotter and drier,” says Gunn.
The region is cooled in summer by ocean breezes, giving a longer growing season, higher natural acidities and lower alcohols than other regions included in the wider Coastal region, which includes warmer areas including Paarl. It also has a natural border, created by mountains to the north.
Whether this will make any difference to the consumer is up for debate. Elgin, Walker Bay and Elim are making a name for themselves with some delicious, fresh, cooler climate Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs. Do producers need to add Cape South Coast to their labels to sell more wine? Does it make it easier to understand? I’m not sure. Are you?
