Paarl wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

Ward

The Paarl district lies north of Stellenbosch, with Wellington to the north-east, the Swartland to the north, and the Groot and Klein Drakenstein mountains together with the Franschhoek range to the south-east, within the Coastal Region of the Western Cape geographical unit, South Africa. It takes its name from Paarl Mountain, a granite outcrop that overlooks the valley. Soils combine decomposed granite on the mountain slopes, acidic potassium-rich gravel, shale and sandstone, and deeper loam and clay deposits on the valley floor. The Mediterranean climate brings mild, sufficiently wet winters and hot, dry summers, more pronounced than in neighbouring Stellenbosch, which lies closer to maritime influence. The vineyards include the wards of Simonsberg-Paarl, on the granite slopes of the Simonsberg, and Voor Paardeberg. Cabernet sauvignon, shiraz, pinotage, chenin blanc and chardonnay are among the most widely planted varieties.

The wines of this appellation

Paarl produces mainly full-bodied red wines based on cabernet sauvignon, shiraz and pinotage, often blended as Cape Blends. On the granite slopes of the Simonsberg they gain in tannic structure and freshness; in Voor Paardeberg, shiraz yields riper, Rhone-style wines. Their colour is deep, purple to garnet, with aromas of ripe dark fruit, pepper and spice that evolve toward leather and tobacco with age; they have real ageing potential. Chenin blanc, often from old vines, produces ripe, textured white wines with notes of stone fruit and honey, complemented by more taut chardonnays. The red wines pair well with grilled or braised meats and game, while the whites suit sauced fish, poultry and pressed-curd cheeses.