Africa is probably the last thing that comes to mind when you think of a wine destination, but the truth is, countries such as Morocco and Algeria have produced wine for hundreds of years. South Africa, and more recently Ethiopia, are large producers of wine as well.  

Below are some of the best wine vineyards in Africa.

Castel Winery – Ziway, Ethiopia

Ethiopia has been growing some of the best white and red grapes from Bordeaux thanks to the help of Castel Wine Experts.

On May 12, 2007, the first vine was planted on land that is known today as The Castel Winery.   Located in the town of Ziway in the Oromia Regional State (about 100 miles away from the capital Addis Ababa),  Castel Winery is the third largest wine producer in the world. 

Photo courtesy of Castel Winery

Chateau Roslane – Meknes, Morocco

Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot are some of the best wine grapes grown in Morocco. Even though Morocco is mostly known for its white wine production, there are places where you can find Chenin Blanc, Muscat, Clairette, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grown in the region.

One place, in particular, that will allow you to experience the beauty of Moroccan vineyards is Chateau Roslane.

Located in the Meknes region of the country, approximately a 5-hour drive from Marrakesh and 2.5 hours from Casablanca, Chateau Roslane is a beautiful winery and accommodation for those looking to get away.

Here is where you can enjoy enchanted vineyards, a romantic hotel, and a relaxing spa at the same time.  Does it get much better than this?

Photo courtesy of Chateau Roslane

Stellenbosch Winelands, South Africa

Stellenbosch is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in South Africa that is known for its quality of white wine.

Just 30 miles away from Cape Town, Stellenbosch is a region you should consider visiting in South Africa. There are plenty of vineyards to choose from including, Clos MalverneSpierVergelegen, DelheimErnie Els Wines and many others.

Ernie Els Wines Instagram | @ernieelswines

Clos Nomena, Madagascar

Surprise, surprise! Madagascar produces wine.

Winemaking in Madagascar started with French colonization when the French brought in their own grapes and mixed them with varieties found in Madagascar.  

The main grape varieties found in Madagascar are Petit Bouchet, Villardin, Chambourcin and Varousset for red wines,  and the Couderc Blanc for white wine. These grapes are also known as  “French American” hybrid grape varieties.

If you’re looking for a winery to visit in Madagascar, try Clos Nomena.

Erongo Mountain Winery In Namibia

Erongo Mountain Winery is situated along the Omaruru River and surrounded by the beautifully rugged mountains of the Erongo region. This stunning boutique is pioneering the Namibian wine industry and carving out its legacy in the arid dry granite rock, according to the staff.

Photo courtesy of Erongo Mountain Winery