South Africa Flashcards
What is cap classique and what grapes are included in them?
South African sparkling blends usually of Sauv Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and/or Pinot noir.
What are some main grapes of South Africa?
Chenin Blanc Cab Sauv Pinotage Shiraz Sauv Blanc Muscat of Alexandria Cinsault Merlot Colombard Chardonnay
What historical/political event made it difficult for South Africa to become part of the international wine trade? When did that begin to change?
Apartheid. Trade bans were lifted in 1991.
Describe cape blends from South Africa.
Minimum 30% pinotage. The rest may include Merlot and other varietals.
What is constantia and how did it affect the South African wine trade?
A sweet Muscat-based wine. It became popular in the 1700s in Europe and that’s why South Africa considers itself old world.
What is steen?
Chenin Blanc in south africa
What is the name of the law/classification system of South Africa?
Wine of Origin System
In South Africa, what percentage of grapes must be from a labeled region? From a labeled vintage? if a grape is on the label, what percentage of that grape must be present in the wine?
Region 100%
Vintage and grape 85%
In South Africa, what is the order of the division of geographical areas?
Geographical units Regions Districts Wards Estates Single vineyards
In South Africa, what happens if wines are blended from different geographical units?
They cannot claim WO status
What is the Integrated Production of Wine Scheme?
South African voluntary certification for WO producers wishing to comply with sustainable environmental standards
What is the climate in South Africa?
Maritime on the coast, but more Mediterranean, warm and humid, inland.
What are three natural cooling mechanisms that effect the South African climate?
Benguela currents bring coolness from Antarctica
Cape doctor winds
Indian/Atlantic currents
What is another term for red cape sandstone?
Hutton
Where are most vineyards located in South Africa?
Souther third of the country conducive to grape growing.
Vineyards fan out around Cape Town, getting hotter and drier the further north they are.