Darling

Located within the Coastal Region of the Western Cape, Darling is a maritime wine-producing district situated just 40 miles north of Cape Town. Its proximity to the Atlantic coast – just 7 miles to the west – and its moderately dry climate make it perfect for producing unique cool-climate wines, primarily from Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz.

Cooling winds from the Benguela Current, which runs along the west coast of Africa, sweep through the vineyards in the afternoons. The ocean also brings early-morning fog that provides moisture to the vineyards. Because of these two factors, the region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with hot days followed by cooler evenings. This diurnal variation allows the grapes to cool down at night, preserving acidity while developing complex flavors.

Growers in Darling have adapted to the region’s poor-quality soils and low rainfall by planting bush vines. These vines are planted further apart and without trellising, like traditional vineyards, and thrive in the area as they are more drought-resistant and develop deep root systems. The ancient, decomposed granite soils have low water retention, requiring the vines to reach deeper for moisture. Some vines have roots as deep as 25 feet. Bush vines naturally yield fewer grapes, resulting in concentrated fruit and greater complexity in the final wines.

Shiraz is one of Darling’s notable grape varieties. Sauvignon Blanc, which is extensively planted as bush vines in Darling, sets it apart from other wine regions worldwide. Additionally, bush-vine Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chenin Blanc can be found in the area’s vineyards.

The wine estates of Darling are situated on the rolling hills surrounding the town. The vineyards face various directions, allowing growers to maximize the influence of ocean breezes from the Atlantic. Over the past decade, wines from Darling have gained international recognition, particularly the intense and distinctive styles produced from bush-vine Sauvignon Blanc.

In 2003, Darling was established as a separate wine region from Swartland in the Wine of Origin scheme, recognizing its distinct wines deserving acknowledgment.