Paarl sits on the valley floor and surrounding granite slopes north of Stellenbosch, generally warmer than its neighbour, which suits fuller-bodied reds and richer whites. It's historically significant as the home of the KWV, the cooperative that shaped South African wine policy for much of the 20th century, and remains a major source of Chenin Blanc, Shiraz and fortified wines alongside its table wines.

Key grapes: Chenin Blanc, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon