The first vines in Plettenberg Bay were planted by Peter Thorpe at Bramon Estate in 2000, in mountainous ground about 20 km east of town. Its cool coastal climate and carbon-rich soils suit Sauvignon Blanc. Naturally low pH and average harvest temperatures of 22°C support a growing sparkling-wine identity, while the wines are associated with limey, mouthwatering acidity.
Elsewhere in Cape South Coast
Continue through the region
- 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.
- Cape Agulhas1 producerCape Agulhas lies between the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans and faces powerful sea gales. Its maritime setting supports cool-climate Pinot Noir and Syrah, while Pinotage can outperform Pinot Noir in some sites.
- 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.
- 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.