France’s Rhône Valley has long been associated with varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, Viognier and Roussanne. Over the last few decades, these same varieties have become increasingly important in South Africa, particularly in the Mediterranean climates of the Western Cape.
Although separated by geography and history, both regions share conditions that favour Rhône varieties. Warm, dry summers, moderate winters and a diversity of soils allow growers to match sites with varieties and produce wines with distinctive regional character.
Syrah, the defining grape of the Northern Rhône, has become one of South Africa’s most successful varieties. Alongside it, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier and Roussanne have gained prominence as producers continue to explore the potential of Rhône varieties in the Cape.
The Rhône itself is remarkably diverse. From the steep granite slopes of the north to the broader, warmer landscapes of the south, the region encompasses a wide range of climates and soil types. South Africa’s Boland offers a similar diversity, with vineyards spread across varied elevations, aspects and geological formations.
While the Rhône’s history stretches back more than two thousand years, South Africa’s modern fine wine industry is comparatively young. Nevertheless, Rhône varieties have become an important part of the Cape’s contemporary wine landscape and continue to inspire many of the country’s leading producers.
These shared influences form the basis of our event: Rhône Night.
Hosted by Chris Williams of The Foundry, the evening will explore the relationship between Rhône varieties and their South African expressions. Wines from The Foundry will be tasted alongside benchmark examples from the Rhône Valley, providing an opportunity to compare styles, origins and interpretations.
Across five flights, guests will taste Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Noir and Syrah, examining how these varieties express themselves in different regions and contexts.
Date: 25 June 2026 Time: 18:00–20:00 Venue: Ex Animo HQ, Level 2, 145 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Join us for an intimate evening exploring Rhône varieties through the lens of The Foundry, poured alongside benchmark wines from the Rhône Valley.
We’ll have additional wines available by the glass, along with a selection of snacks, so you’re welcome to stay on afterwards for another glass and a conversation.
Is the Boland comparable to the Rhône?
France’s Rhône Valley has long been associated with varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, Viognier and Roussanne. Over the last few decades, these same varieties have become increasingly important in South Africa, particularly in the Mediterranean climates of the Western Cape.
Although separated by geography and history, both regions share conditions that favour Rhône varieties. Warm, dry summers, moderate winters and a diversity of soils allow growers to match sites with varieties and produce wines with distinctive regional character.
Syrah, the defining grape of the Northern Rhône, has become one of South Africa’s most successful varieties. Alongside it, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier and Roussanne have gained prominence as producers continue to explore the potential of Rhône varieties in the Cape.
The Rhône itself is remarkably diverse. From the steep granite slopes of the north to the broader, warmer landscapes of the south, the region encompasses a wide range of climates and soil types. South Africa’s Boland offers a similar diversity, with vineyards spread across varied elevations, aspects and geological formations.
While the Rhône’s history stretches back more than two thousand years, South Africa’s modern fine wine industry is comparatively young. Nevertheless, Rhône varieties have become an important part of the Cape’s contemporary wine landscape and continue to inspire many of the country’s leading producers.
These shared influences form the basis of our event: Rhône Night.
Hosted by Chris Williams of The Foundry, the evening will explore the relationship between Rhône varieties and their South African expressions. Wines from The Foundry will be tasted alongside benchmark examples from the Rhône Valley, providing an opportunity to compare styles, origins and interpretations.
Across five flights, guests will taste Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Noir and Syrah, examining how these varieties express themselves in different regions and contexts.
Date: 25 June 2026
Time: 18:00–20:00
Venue: Ex Animo HQ, Level 2, 145 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Join us for an intimate evening exploring Rhône varieties through the lens of The Foundry, poured alongside benchmark wines from the Rhône Valley.
We’ll have additional wines available by the glass, along with a selection of snacks, so you’re welcome to stay on afterwards for another glass and a conversation.
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