MICHAEL FRIDJHON: The humble beginnings of shiraz in SA
Since 2015 there has been an extraordinary quality improvement in local shiraz varietals
The premodern history of grape varieties in SA is shrouded in mystery. Early records were sketchy and in those days cultivars were known by different names in different regions.
The first vines imported at the request of Jan van Riebeeck were sourced by the Dutch East India Company, headquartered in Amsterdam. The Lords XVII would no doubt have sent an agent — with no knowledge about viticulture — to buy some vines for shipment to the Cape. The first consignment was pretty much dead on arrival. The second batch did quite well, and may have provided the basic planting material for the country's vineyards for several generations...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.