Franschhoek is a broad vineyard lined valley in the southeast corner of Paarl, within the western cape. The vineyards are protected from oceanic influences by the mountains to the south, which also trap southerly cooling winds, lengthening the growing season. Grapes have been planted in the region since the late 1600s, when exiled French Huguenots brought over their viticulture to South Africa and settled in this area, Franschhoek which translates in Dutch to `French corner`. The hot climate here typically shows full bodied, complex reds and rich, fruit driven whites, there is also the association of Cap Classique production to this region. Culturally the area is known for its hospitality, music and variety of festivals.