When you think of the KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa, you almost certainly associate it with hot weather, sandy beaches, and lush green sugar cane fields. The last activity that will come to mind is wine tasting. That’s an activity reserved to the mediterranean climes of the Western Cape, right? Wrong. Though not the only grape growers in the area, Abingdon winery continues their reign as the only producer of wine in the Kwa-Zulu Natal province since 2007. They’re known for their old-world style wines: Sauvignon, Syrah, and other various blends. In 2008, Abingdon was recognized for producing some of the top wines in the southern hemisphere. The tasting room and dining area maintains a cool temperature despite the rising sub-tropical temperatures outside. Sit down with a glass at the bar and the owner, Ian, will open up about the challenges it takes to produce wine in this region’s climate. Ben, the resident dog, is a sweetheart and will lean into your legs as you pet him. The hours slip by at Abingdon, either while picnicking outside on their tables in the summer or next to the fire with a cozy blanket in the winter. It’s unexpected to stumble across a vineyard that feels like it could transition through the seasons so seamlessly. Perhaps as unexpected as finding a new favorite wine while traveling in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Old-World Wines in an Unlikely Location
When you think of the KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa, you almost certainly associate it with hot weather, sandy beaches, and lush green sugar cane fields. The last activity that will come to mind is wine tasting. That’s an activity reserved to the mediterranean climes of the Western Cape, right? Wrong. Though not the only grape growers in the area, Abingdon winery continues their reign as the only producer of wine in the Kwa-Zulu Natal province since 2007. They’re known for their old-world style wines: Sauvignon, Syrah, and other various blends. In 2008, Abingdon was recognized for producing some of the top wines in the southern hemisphere. The tasting room and dining area maintains a cool temperature despite the rising sub-tropical temperatures outside. Sit down with a glass at the bar and the owner, Ian, will open up about the challenges it takes to produce wine in this region’s climate. Ben, the resident dog, is a sweetheart and will lean into your legs as you pet him. The hours slip by at Abingdon, either while picnicking outside on their tables in the summer or next to the fire with a cozy blanket in the winter. It’s unexpected to stumble across a vineyard that feels like it could transition through the seasons so seamlessly. Perhaps as unexpected as finding a new favorite wine while traveling in KwaZulu-Natal.
