Swartland

In an effort to shed some light on how I study for WSET Diploma Course’s D3 exam, Le Club des Vins is running a series of posts covering wine regions. Today’s topic: Swartland

📍 Location

Swartland is a district of the Coastal Region of South-Africa. It is located 65 kilometers north of Cape Town.

In a nutshell

South-Africa
Hot & dry
Shiraz, chenin blanc and pinotage
Swartland Revolution

☁️ Climate

Mostly hot and dry. Less risk of fungal diseases and lower yields (meaning: more concentrated fruit) because of water stress. ⠀

🌋 Soils

Mostly shale and some granite.⠀

🍇 Grapes & styles

Swartland is most known for its fruit-driven shiraz, chenin blanc and pinotage. GSM-blends are also seen quite often. The area is famous for its old (bush) vines, which is particularly convenient in the hot and dry climate. These vines are hardy and quite drought-resistant. Bush vines usually have deeper roots, so can dig deeper to get water, whilst canopy provides shade for the sun. ⠀

💡 Something you didn’t know (did you?)

There’s a lot of talent bundled in Swartland, often referred to as the Swartland Revolution started by Charles Back. He bought vineyards in 1997 and opened a new project called the Spice Route. His employee, Eben Sadie, Chris and Andrea Mullineux and Abi Badenhorst among others followed soon after. They all focus on low yields, dry farming, organic or biodynamic farming, etc. Since 2010, there’s a weekend devoted to the celebration of the region’s wines. Let’s go!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Your turn now

I always put a new region on instagram first. If you have any additions or comments on a region, please do share. You can drop a comment on instagram or on the website – see below. Your help is much appreciated!