The Western Cape in South Africa is often thought of as one of the world’s most beautiful regions. From Cape Town airport, it is only an hour’s drive to leafy Stellenbosch, a wine lover’s paradise packed with bars, restaurants and hotels. Not much further is Franschhoek, a haven of seriously good restaurants, and with its Huguenot heritage, it can feel as if you’ve stopped over in Provence. Look out for chenin blanc, sauvignon blanc and pinotage.
2012 Fable Mountain Vineyards Jackal Bird, Western Cape
£20, The Wine Society
A blend of chenin blanc, grenache blanc, roussanne, viognier and chardonnay, this is fresh, with a real sense of quality.
2011 Vergelegen Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, Stellenbosch
£7.99 (in a mix of six), Majestic
Bursting with character, this is a good alternative to bordeaux at a fraction of the price.
