For many years, Navarre remained in the shadow of its prestigious neighbour, Rioja, but in more recent times it has made huge strides. Although it initially garnered a reputation for the quality of its rosés, it is now also praised for its increasingly high profile red wines. The decision to host the world Grenache competition in Olite, Navarre, this year, is no accident.

Like all inspiring wine countries globally, indigenous grape varieties are part of a quintessential blend of things to see, taste and experience. For South Africans, Table Mountain is their beacon of ancient soils, its "tablecloth" of cloud the introduction to the Cape's whimsical weather. And while the smell of Boerewors and Karoo lamb chops on a traditional open fire "braai" sets the scene for local fare, it is not fulfilled until Pinotage anoints the occasion.