Stellenbosch is South Africa's most established fine-wine region, framed by granite and sandstone mountains that create a wide range of mesoclimates within a small area. Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends are the traditional strength here, grown on well-drained decomposed granite soils on the mountain slopes, though the region also produces excellent Chenin Blanc, Syrah and Pinotage — South Africa's own grape, a Pinot Noir x Cinsault crossing bred here in 1925.

Key grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinotage, Syrah, Chenin Blanc