The first plantings of the vineyards in South Africa took place at the Cape in 1655. Pinotage, a hybrid of Pinot Noir and Hermitage (Cinsaut), is a locally cultivated grape varietal is finding popularity all over the world. South Africa is know to make stunning wines from Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Shiraz grape varietals from regions of Stellenbosch and Paarl.