Klein Karoo
Klein Karoo is an arid, desert-like wine-producing region in the Western Cape known for an extreme climate. The dry climate in this area lends itself to the production of the best fortified wines in South Africa. Beyond this signature style, Klein Karoo’s diverse terroir offers an impressive array of other wine styles.
Throughout its history, fortified wines, and the ultra-fragrant Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains have dominated Klein Karoo. However, an increasing emphasis is now being placed on the production of dry wines, showcasing the captivating characteristics of Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and drought-resistant Portuguese varieties such as Tinta Barroca.
Klein Karoo’s viticultural zone is firmly located within a picturesque mountain valley. To the north, the Swartberg Mountains create a natural boundary from the expansive semi-desert of Great Karoo that stretches across South Africa’s western expanse.
In the south, the majestic Langeberg Mountains provide ample shelter, shielding the region from the influences of the nearby Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Along the foothills of these two mountain ranges and the tranquil banks of the rivers meandering through the valley, vineyards thrive in harmony.
The vineyards of Klein Karoo do best in the mountainous wards of Montagu and Tradouw, along its western border, where altitudes reach nearly 2,300 feet. The surrounding mountains offer climate moderation from the extreme heat just north, while the diverse topography yields fertile soils for vineyards to thrive. The lower riverbed vineyards in Klein Karoo face the challenges of a harsher climate, necessitating careful irrigation to manage the impact of the hot and arid growing season.
The deep red alluvial soils, with their excellent drainage properties, help vines dig deep in search of precious nutrients. This yields smaller berries enveloped by thicker skins than usual. For instance, our producer, Scions of Sinai makes a Grenache Blanc from Klein Karoo that is extremely textured and fleshy because of these soils and climate.
