Cape Agulhas lies near Africa's southernmost point, between the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Its vineyards face powerful sea gales and grow on soils that include laterite, sandstone, shale, quartz and limestone. Maritime exposure supports cool-climate Pinot Noir and Syrah, while Pinotage can outperform Pinot Noir in some sites.
Elsewhere in Cape South Coast
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- Bot RiverNo producers listed yetBot River runs from its lagoon into the foothills of the Groenlandberg and Babylonstoren ranges. Afternoon sea winds help keep the maritime climate cool, and Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc are especially at home here.
- Elgin5 producersElgin's high, cool setting brings later ripening. Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Shiraz are all well suited here.
- MalgasNo producers listed yetMalgas sits on a stony plateau above the Breede River, east of Cape Agulhas. Vines arrived in 2003, and the site favours drought-resistant Mediterranean varieties.
- Overberg1 producerOverberg includes Elgin, a cool-climate wine area. In Baardskeerdersbos, wind-exposed Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon can show a salty edge.
- Plettenberg Bay1 producerPlettenberg Bay's cool coastal climate and carbon-rich soils suit Sauvignon Blanc. Vines were first planted in 2000, and naturally low pH with average harvest temperatures of 22°C support its growing sparkling-wine identity.
- Walker Bay10 producersWalker Bay's cool climate and Benguela influence suit Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. The area runs from Hermanus toward Bot River and contains seven wine wards.