South Africa’s grape season is long, beginning in October and running through the end of May. The Western Cape (including Stellenbosch, Worcester and Citrusdal) produces crisp, juicy table grapes with high sugar content, in a variety of colours. The Little Karoo (Oudtshoorn), which grows early ripening green seedless varieties; the Upper Orange River Valley (Upington), which produces seedless red globe varieties; and East London on the Eastern Cape coast where early ripening green seedless grapes are cultivated—all produce their own unique types of wine.
October and November – the Western Cape (including Stellenbosch, Worcester and Citrusdal), which produces crisp, juicy table grapes with high sugar content, in a variety of colours.
The Western Cape is the largest wine-producing region in South Africa, accounting for over 70% of the nation’s wine production. The climate here is Mediterranean, with warm summers and cool winters. The Western Cape is home to some of the oldest wineries in South Africa; two examples include Stellenbosch, which dates back to 1679, and Paarl, which was established by Dutch settlers in 1657.
The province produces crisp, juicy table grapes with high sugar content—perfect for making wines that are easy to drink as an aperitif or pairing with cheese dishes.
November and December – the Little Karoo (Oudtshoorn), which grows early ripening green seedless varieties.
If you’re looking for seedless green grapes, your best bet is the Little Karoo (Oudtshoorn), which grows early ripening green seedless varieties.
December and February – the Upper Orange River Valley (Upington), which produces seedless red globe varieties.
If you want to try South Africa’s red grapes, which are known for their sweet taste and crispy texture, the best month to visit is December.
December is the start of the grape season in Upington, a small town at the foot of the Northern Cape’s Orange River region. The town hosts wine tastings and other events throughout the year; be sure to stop by for a glass or two!
