South Africa

Question 1

2019

Answer 1

Smallest crop in nearly 20 years, due to post-drought conditions as well as warmer- or wetter-than-average periods during the growing season. Top producers selected high quality fruit, resulting in wines of good intensity and balance. WS 89

Question 2

2016

Answer 2

Wildly hot and extremely dry vintage caused problems, with many growers picking early. Dry-farmed areas suffered; wildfires hurt producers in Simonsberg-Stellenbosch. Inconsistent overall, with some successes; yields markedly lower. WS 88

Question 3

2014

Answer 3

A very wet spring led to a generally cool, wet growing season that resulted in a late-running harvest with many varieties ripening at the same time. Whites harvested under good conditions in February, later-ripening reds more variable WS 87

Question 4

2013

Answer 4

A strong start to the season and excellent late-season weather, but humidity midway led to some disease pressure. Reds variable from producer to producer, with the best showing an elegant style; crop about 10 percent larger than usual. WS 89