The Stellenbosch wine zone, is located in the province of Western Cape in South Africa, about 30 miles from Cape Town. Along with the Paarl and Franschhoek Valleys, it is part of the Cape Winelands, one of the largest growing areas of the country. As this area is near the South Atlantic Ocean, it has a maritime climate, with fog and ocean breezes moderating temperatures. This is a perfect site for whites and Sauvignon Blanc from Stellenbosch has become famous for its lime and melon fruit along with its grassy characteristics; the wines have razor-sharp acidity and excellent varietal purity.

However, Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted variety in Stellenbosch and it performs extremely well on the granite and sandstone soils. Another famous red from this area is Pinotage, one of the country's most famous wines. A local cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, Pinotage has medium weight tannins along with the fruitiness of Pinot Noir; most versions are aged in small oak barrels. Other top wines from Stellenbosch include Chardonnay, Shiraz and Chenin Blanc. (Wine/Appellations)