One of South Africa’s hidden treasures is entrenched in its rich diverse wine farms waiting to be discovered. Located on various wine routes, the South Africa winelands are a stunning district of vineyards valleys nestled between rugged mountains and are home to some of the best wine in the world, and offer exquisite views of the enchanting mountain folds and vast green fields that seem to perpetually run parallel to each other.
The wine farms in South Africa are for the most part positioned in Mediterranean climate parts of the country - warm dry summers and rainfall characterize mild winter months. The Mediterranean climate combined with the varied soil allow for the unsurpassed wine making in the Cape area.
Wine districts have countless fine wine estates offering cellar tours, wine tasting and wine tours in South Africa. Numerous estates have outstanding impressive restaurants and luxurious bed and breakfast accommodation designed to offer comfort and holiday relaxation while conveniently exposing you to some of the best wine in the world and more ultimate holiday sensation induced experiences.
• Book South Africa Car Hire and enjoy a self drive around the Cape Winelands
There are plenty of opportunities to go wine tasting in Cape Town. Listed below are the different types of wine farms and wine routes in South Africa.
Stellenbosch wine route: located just 45 minutes from the city centre, this is the most popular and is home to one of the world’s best wine farms.
- Avontuur Estate: Nestled against the Helderberg, this estate is home of fine wine and offers horseback ridding, wine tasting, wine sales and dining in the deli-style restaurant.
- The Bergkelder: The wine tasting takes place in the magnificent white tent set inside the Visitors Centre, in an avowal of style that is inspired by blend of modern and colonial Africa.
- Zevenwacht: this wine farm has ancestry in the South African history. The wines of are notable by their classic style and delicately crafted sophistication .
- Spier Cellars: this is an award winning estate offering wine tasting, cellar tours, and a wide variety of dining opportunities ranging from a picnic in the stunning gardens to luxury dining in the hotel restaurant or a true African experience at the renowned Moyo restaurant.
- Morgenhof: boasts a rich legacy dating back to the 1200s. This estate offers daily wine tasting and cellar tours. You can also enjoy a meal in the remarkable garden.
- Neetlingshof: this wine estate dates back to 1692, and offer tours and wine tasting. Private wine tasting can also be arranged.
- Blaauwklippen: this remarkable estate is famous for its award winning wines, and offers wine tasting, cellar tours, an extensive museum and function centre.
Constantia Valley wine route: this area is home to the oldest wine estates in the country, and is located just 25 minutes from the city centre. You will find exclusive luxury accommodation within 15 minutes of the route.
- Steenberg Estate : set in striking scenery, this estate offers superb wine and wine tours, and is also home to luxurious country hotel, 18 hole championship golf course, fine dining restaurant.
- Klein Constantia: nestled on the foothill of the Constantiaberg Mountains, this family owned estate produces prominent superb South African wine.
- Groot Constantia: Located in the Constantia Valley and offering sweeping views running as far as the False Bay, this is the oldest wine farm in South Africa. There are a lot of leisure activities to be enjoyed at this farm. The farm boasts an impressive restaurant, and picnics in the stunning gardens can also be arranged.
- Buitenverwachting: this once part of the original Groot Constantia Estate is now an independent producer of South Africa’s award winning wines. The Buitenverwachting restaurant is rated in country’s top 10.
- Constantia Uitsig: set in the magnificent backdrop with the Constantiaberg Mountains in its background, this estate is home to fine wine and the well-appointed Constantia Uitsig Country hotel. Not forgetting the two award winning restaurants.
Franschoek wine route: also renowned for its luxury restaurants offering delectable cuisine that compliment the fine wine.
- Bellingham: has a history dating back to 1693. The brand has become synonymous with good quality wine as it has continued to produce the country’s finest wine.
- Boschendal: this is one of the oldest wine estates in the country, and produces a range of idiosyncratic and elegant red, white and sparkling wines. Also boasts a stylish restaurant.
- Moreson: located in the picturesque mountain setting, the estate is famous for its award winning wines. Offers cellar tours and wine tasting.
- Mont Rochelle: boasting beautiful view of the valley, this estate offers wine tasting and picnic baskets for summer days spent lazing in the sun. In winter, you can get a cup of soup and bread while you relax in front of the roaring fire.
Paarl wine route: This district can be found just north of Stellenbosch, and is also referred to as ‘the red route’ thanks to its legendary red wines.
- KWV: this is the biggest wine cellar in the world, a leading exporter of South African wine, and offers over 100 various natural wines. Also makes fortified wine and whiskeys brandies produced for the global market.
- Nederberg: this famous maker of globally highly praised wines is also famous for it cheeses. Offers guided tours in a language of your choice.
- Simonsvlei: Recognized around the world for its exquisite wines. Wine tasting offered daily, and cellar tours can be arranged through an appointment.
Durbanville wine Route: set in what is perhaps the best groomed area in the Western Cape, and features estates that produce the country’s top wine.
- Altydgedacht: has a history that runs back to 1698, and boasts a great collection of wine with a tasting location in the cellar on the farm.
- Durbanville Hills: produces about 5000 tons of wine a year, and offer a visitor an opportunity to experience the making of what is one of country’s top wines.
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