South Africa Flashcards
When was Cape Town founded and by whom?
Cape Town was founded in 1652 by Jan van Riebeeck of the Dutch East India Company.
What was the initial purpose of the first wines produced in South Africa?
To sustain sailors bound for the East Indies on long ocean voyages.
Who brought new winemaking knowledge to South Africa in the late 1680s?
French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution.
What is the meaning of Franschhoek?
French Quarter.
What significant wine did Governor Simon van der Stel introduce?
Vin de Constance.
What major problem did South African wines face in the latter half of the 19th century?
Powdery mildew and phylloxera.
What was the impact of the British abolishing preferential tariffs in 1861?
Renewed competition with French wines.
What cooperative was formed in 1918 to help South African wine producers?
Ko-operatieve Wijnbouwers Vereniging van Zuid-Afrika (KWV).
What did the KWV do to stabilize the wine industry?
Fixed minimum prices, determined areas of production, and established production limits.
When was the South African Wine Industry Trust (SAWIT) established?
In 1999.
What is the purpose of the Wine of Origin (WO) system?
To certify wines based on grape variety and origin.
What percentage of the stated grape must be in a WO certified wine?
85%.
What are the four types of production areas in the Wine of Origin system?
- Geographical unit
- Region
- District
- Ward
What is the Integrated Production of Wine Scheme (IPW)?
A voluntary certification for WO producers complying with sustainable environmental standards.
How many large geographical areas are South Africa’s wine-producing regions divided into?
Seven.
What are the main white grape varieties grown in South Africa?
- Chenin Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Hanepoot
- Colombard
- Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains
- Semillon
Which grape is referred to as South Africa’s signature red grape?
Pinotage.
What are the two most planted red grape varieties in South Africa?
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Syrah/Shiraz
What is Méthode Cap Classique (MCC)?
Traditional method sparkling wines produced in South Africa.
What is the climate of the Western Cape wine-producing area?
Mediterranean.
What is the most planted white grape in South Africa?
Chenin Blanc.
What significant wine auction takes place in Paarl?
Nederburg Wine Auction.
Which district is known for producing over 25% of South Africa’s national wine volume?
Worcester.
What grape varieties are predominantly planted in the Klein Karoo region?
- Muscat
- Tinta Barroca