South African wine’s U-Turn on terroir

Although it was once home to generic blends, James Lawrence finds plenty of variety in the country’s rejuvenated wine landscape. The pace with which South Africa has transformed its wine industry is one of the most dramatic changes to have occurred in recent times. The widespread air of prosperity and freedom – not to mention more than 500 private wineries – would certainly surprise any South African returning home after 50 years on Mars.