Franschhoek — "French corner" — takes its name from the Huguenot refugees who settled the valley in the late 17th century and planted its first vines. Ringed tightly by mountains, the valley has a cooler, more contained climate than much of the surrounding Cape winelands, and has become known particularly for Semillon (some of the oldest vines in the southern hemisphere survive here) and for Cap Classique, South Africa's traditional-method sparkling wine.

Key grapes: Semillon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon