South Africa's wine history is closely linked with the Dutch East India Company. Vines were initially planted in the Cape in the late 17th Century to produce wine as a scurvy antidote for sailors. The first major vineyards that developed in 1685 are now what make up the region of Constantia. Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon and Chardonnay thrive well and there are some beautiful, age worthy Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah cuvees coming out of Stellenbosch.