updated November 2022
Best wine in the Southern Hemisphere
The Southern Hemisphere contains some heavy-hitter wine regions like Marlborough in New Zealand and Stellenbosch in South Africa. But what about the up and comers? Read below to find out who makes our list for the most underrated wine regions in the southern hemisphere.
4. Margaret River – Western Australia, Australia
Why we love it: Exceptional Cabernets and Chardonnays along with some sneaky good Rieslings. White sand beaches within a stones throw from wineries — how cool is that?
Overshadowed by: Barossa Valley, Clare Valley
Why it’s underrated: Take 50 average folks from Sydney and there will likely be just a few who have ever been to the western side of the country. While visiting the pristine beaches in the height of summer, we couldn’t believe how empty they were. It likely won’t be this way for long.
Read our full guide to Margaret River here
3. Uco Valley – Mendoza, Argentina
Why we love it: While we aren’t big fans of the large-scale production in Maipu Mendoza, discovering the Uco Valley region was a revelation. In addition to better tasting wine, the beautiful vineyard accommodations are a great draw.
Overshadowed by: Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo
Why it’s underrated: Most people connotate Argentina with Malbec–and they are correct. But we found the Cabernet Francs in the Uco Valley to be the up and coming varietal to watch out for. Though we are not huge fans of Cab Franc from the Loire Valley in France, the ones produced in the Uco Valley were extremely enjoyable–likely due in part to the high elevation of the vineyards.
Read our full guide to Uco Valley here
2. Hemel-en-Arde – Western Cape, South Africa
Why we love it: Hemel-en-Aarde translates to “heaven on earth” and after visiting, we understand why. Rolling green valleys, bright juicy Pinot Noirs and a small community of winemakers providing a local’s treatment.
Overshadowed by: Stellenbosch
Why it’s underrated: A lot of Cape Town visitors will descend upon the valleys of Stellenbosch due to proximity and notoriety. But by venturing out a little further (1.5 hours by car), one can find a hidden gem. When we visited Hemel-en-Aarde, locals were shocked to learn we were from the States, as there are seldom any American visitors. If you’re planning to drive the Garden Route, make sure this is a stop in your itinerary.
Read our full guide to Hemel-en-Aarde here
1. Martinborough – Wairarapa New Zealand
Why we love it: Boutique-size producers, bike-able wine route, some of the best Pinot Noir and all under 180-degree starlit skies.
Overshadowed by: Marlborough
Why it’s underrated: Most people who visit New Zealand will spend the majority of time in Queenstown or Auckland–but there are so many gems in-between. With exports to the US greatly overshadowed by other regions in the country, many have never even heard of the tiny region. If planning a visit, try to time it around the “Toast Martinborough” festival every November.
Read our full guide to Martinborough here
Do you agree with our list? Send us a message over Instagram @thewinescribes or an email, hello@thewinescribes.com
