South Africa’s two great passions, rugby and wine, have always had a close relationship. Both are woven into the national identity. Both bring people together. And, in recent years, both have been gaining traction on the global stage.
It’s no surprise that rugby-inspired wines have grown in popularity. Here’s a look at why these wines exist and at the Alvi’s Drift 221 Range’s history with the sport.
Why Rugby & Wine Go Together
Rugby is a social sport. It’s watched in groups, discussed in depth, and celebrated around tables. These are the same conditions in which wine thrives. The crossover between South African rugby fans and wine drinkers is significant and growing, particularly among younger audiences and women.
The Local Rugby-Wine Connection
South African wine estates have a longstanding tradition of community involvement, and rugby clubs have historically been anchored in the same farming communities that produce wine.
The Winelands region (that’s Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, and Franschhoek) is also serious rugby territory. These communities have always overlapped.
Wines Worth Watching
As interest in both South African rugby culture and local wine continues to grow internationally, the 221 Range has a meaningful story to share. One rooted in family heritage, a real Springbok cap number, and wines made for the moments that get everyone to gather around in camaraderie or even rivalry.
Deep Rugby Roots, Since 1928
The story of 221 began with a moment that mattered.
Our founder, Alvi van der Merwe, played rugby for Western Province Country. In 1928, during the All Blacks’ rugby tour of South Africa, he scored the first try against them on African soil. He then went on to gain his Springbok cap, number 221, during the 1931–1932 tour of Britain and Ireland.
It was his moment of greatness.
Today, number 221 remains a quiet but proud detail in our namesake 221 Range. It’s a nod to Oupa Alvi’s place in national rugby history, with a wine that’s genuinely worthy of the legacy it carries.
Now that’s a 221 story.
