The Kwazulu-Natal Wine Region is one of the newest wine regions in South Africa.

The wine scene in KwaZulu-Natal has been coming along for some years, but for the average wine-lover it has hardly been worth dedicating a trip to its exploration, until now.

With three established wineries consistently producing own-brand bottled wine across a variety of styles and categories, an informal wine route has arisen stretching over 120 kilometres. 

The region is regulated under the Wine of Origin scheme as comprising the districts of Central Drakensberg, which is home to Cathedral Peak Wines; and, Lions River, where Highgate and the oldest of the three, Abingdon Estate, ply their trade along the popular Midlands Meander Route. 

In terms of scale, the operations are very much boutique in size, but they are the leading edge of a growing local interest in wine.

The association of KwaZulu-Natal wine growers has some 25 members – farms with small vineyards or an interest in planting vines – while the province’s agricultural authorities have invested research and funding too.

As with any pioneering effort, wine grape farming in these parts has happened in fits and starts. Breaking new ground in production is one thing.

Convincing the ready market of traditional wine buyers that it’s worth the premium, is another challenge.