South Africa is its continents rising star. Since the end of apartheid, the country has become Africa’s most culturally and economically significant land. This development has not gone unnoticed by the world at large. A shining example of this: FIFA awarded the 2010 World Cup to South Africa, making it the first sub-Saharan nation to host such a major sporting event. There is plenty more to South Africa than soccer, though.

With all that is new in South Africa getting the headlines, one might forget the history of this land. The nation’s history is punctuated by peoples like Zulu, Boer, an British; figures like Nelson Mandela; and a past full of both colorful culture and violent conflict. One thing that often gets left out of the list that might be of interest to visitors, be they gourmets or just curious travelers, is the wine.

South Africa’s relationship with grapes dates back over three hundred years. Today the industry is steeped in history, but also very accessible to visitors. In fact, the tourist industry owes much of its recent success to wine tourism. Some grape growing regions of the world are inaccessible to the average tourist. There is no such exclusivity in South Africa.

Though there are some guided tours that include walking vineyards, visiting cellars, and plenty of tasting, it is easy enough to explore one of the many “wine regions” on your own. Most of the vineyards are located in the Western Cape region of South Africa. Some of the better-known regions, like Stellenbosch, have well trod routes between vineyards. The industry has had a trickle down effect on its surrounding areas. Restaurants and hotels that can cater to even the most demanding gourmand have sprung up along these “wine routes.”

Wine is only part of the attraction to South Africa. It’s many cultures, natural beauty, and abundant wildlife draw visitors as much as its grapes. All this makes for one of the most interesting and colorful wine industries in the world.