In sharp contrast to 1997, vintage 1998 for South African wines was a year characterised by the extraordinarily hot and dry weather that predominated throughout most of the growing season.

In particular, January and February witnessed a heatwave, which resulted in harvesting commencing 3 weeks earlier than normal in many regions. Some high quality Chardonnays were produced but many examples have low acidity levels and the majority should have been consumed by now.

The red wines were characterised by their high alcohol levels, with the best possessing the concentration and structure for ageing. Many of the lesser examples lacked balance and were best consumed over the next year or so.