South Africa

While much of South Africa is hot, dry desert, its vineyards lie in the Southwestern corner of the country. The Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge here, bringing coastal fog, ocean breezes and ample rainfall to a climate much like the Mediterranean. Vineyards also climb the steep mountains and spread into interior valleys where rain is scarce and soil is challenging. As a result, South Africa produces a diverse variety of wines.

Reds wines outweigh white wines by 2 to 1 in South Africa. Cabernet Sauvignon is the top red wine, but the country also grows a locally created red wine called Pinotage, a cross between the Pinot Noir and Cinsault grapes.