Elim is a small wine-producing area at the southern tip of South Africa, making up a part of the larger Cape Agulhas region. This relatively cold area is strongly influenced by the nearby ocean and pushes the vines to their absolute limit. Cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz from Elim attracts attention from all over the world.
The vineyards in Elim lie roughly 10 miles (16km) from the ocean. South-easterly winds buffet the region on a daily basis, cooling the vineyards and allowing the berries to ripen more slowly. Strong winds also discourage the growth of vegetation, which causes the vines to put more energy into their grapes. Stressed vines work harder to keep themselves alive, meaning more attractive fruit and subsequently better wines.
However, the ocean’s proximity brings challenges to grape growers. Humidity is high in Elim, which increases the chance of fungal diseases in the vines. Strong winds, while welcomed, can be damaging to younger vineyards in particular. There is also the danger that the ripening season will simply be too cold, and the berries will not have a chance to ripen fully. Growers must tend to their vineyards carefully to reduce the damaging effects of the marginal climate.
Soil types are varied, with iron-rich clay, sandstone and quartzite being found in the area. Quartzite also makes up a part of the soil profile in the Mosel region in Germany, another area associated with the production of aromatic white wines.
Elim began life as a mission station in the early 19th Century. German missionaries chose the area for its viticultural potential as much as its coastal position, with the intention of producing wines for communion.
The quality of the wine produced in Elim is enough to make growers take the risks in this marginal climate. Elim Sauvignon Blancs are fresh and flinty, sharing herbaceous characteristics with those made in New Zealand's Marlborough region. Cool-climate Syrah is also being received well by an international audience.
