South Africa — wine

Elgin Wine Region

High-altitude appellation (300–500m) in Overberg; former apple-growing area discovered for fine wine in 1980s. Coolest appellation in Western Cape due to elevation and maritime influence from False Bay and Indian Ocean. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Syrah succeeding where other Western Cape regions are too warm. Elite cool-climate wines.

Year Rating Notes
2022 Outstanding cool-climate season; Elgin's maritime elevation delivered exceptional precision; Pinot and Chardonnay stellar
2021 Good vintage despite Western Cape heat; Elgin's altitude proved its value; Seven Flags Pinot particularly fine
2020 Superb growing season in Elgin; Cool Encounter Chardonnay from this year received 95+ points internationally
2019 Classic Elgin vintage; maritime influence strong; Pinot Noir showing characteristic cool-climate elegance
2018 Drought year across Western Cape; Elgin's elevation helped; Paul Cluver's irrigation-free farming showed resilience
2017 Worst drought in 100 years; Elgin impacted but less severely than Stellenbosch and Paarl; yields very low
2016 Good conditions; benchmark Elgin vintage for Chardonnay; Close Encounter showing great ageing from this year