Namibia is a country in southern Africa, bordered by the southern Atlantic Ocean to the west, Angola and Zambia to the north, South Africa to the south and east and Botswana to the east. Stretching between southern latitudes of 16 and 28 degrees, much of Namibia is too hot and dry to support productive viticulture, and the country is instead better known for its beers.
A small amount of wine is made in Namibia, mostly from Shiraz, Colombard and Ruby Cabernet vines imported from the Cape Winelands district of South Africa. These cover just a few hectares. The majority of Namibia's vineyards are used for table grape production rather than for oenological purposes. These are sited mostly in the south of the country, along the Orange River, which flows westwards from the Northern Cape region of South Africa.
Namibia Breweries is the country's main brewing company, and brews both domestic and foreign brands under licence. It was formed in the 1920s when four struggling breweries were brought together under a single banner, "South West Breweries Ltd". The current title was chosen to replace this name when Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990. The brewery is the home of the famous Windhoek lager beer.
