South Africa: Stellenbosch

South Africa has one of the world's oldest wine histories outside Europe — viticulture was started by Dutch colonists in the 1600s. Stellenbosch, near Cape Town, is South Africa's wine hub with a varied mountain-and-valley landscape creating distinct microclimates. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah dominate among red wines. Pinotage — a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault created in South Africa in 1925 — is the country's unique signature grape. Chenin Blanc (locally called Steen) is the most planted white grape and yields everything from fresh dry wines to sweeter styles.