stellenbosch wine farm tours

7 Wine Tours Stellenbosch: Leave the Car at the Hotel

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

South African wine is world-renowned. The majority of its wine production and of its wine farms are near Cape Town.

There are four main wine areas in South Africa: Constantia , Paarl , Worcester , and lovely Stellenbosch . Stellenbosch is just 50km East of Cape Town. It is located at the bottom of the Stellenbosch mountains and has a Mediterranean climate – dry and warm summers and mild and wet winters.

So what could be more enjoyable than taking some wine tours Stellenbosch in that gorgeous weather?

This is a beautiful region with rolling gentle hills and big skies. The town of Stellenbosch South africa is full of character with its Dutch-style buildings and lots of cute boutiques and coffee shops/cafes.

But of course, it is all about the wine. And Stellenbosch wine is just fabulous. I am Australian so I love a big rich new world wine thus Stellenbosch wines suited me down to the ground.

However, you don’t need to have an Australian palate to enjoy the wonderful wine estates Stellenbosch has on offer and there is an extensive variety of grapes and blends on offer.

Wine Tours Stellenbosch

There are seven different types of wine tours of Stellenbosch. The different options for wine tastings are based around half or full days, one or more wine regions, adding food, private or group or method of transport.

⇒ Book Your Stellenbosch Wine Tour Now

1. The Vine Hopper Bus Stellenbosch

I loved this concept. The Stellenbosch Vine Hopper is a hop on hop off bus that takes you around the Stellenbosch wine farms.

This Stellenbosch wine tour bus picks you up and drops you back at your accommodation so you don’t need to think about driving at all. There are three different routes and each has six winery stops.

I checked the wineries on the Stellenbosch Vine Hopper route beforehand and decided where I wanted to have lunch and which Stellenbosch wineries I particularly wanted to visit. That way I was able to easily plan my day to maximize the wine varietals that I like best.

Each Vine hopper route covers a different wine area in Stellenbosch – Southern, Northern or Eastern. The tours run on different days eg the Southern Route currently runs Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

This means that there is a vine hopper bus operating in Stellenbosch pretty much every day. It also means you can use the vine hopper a couple of days in a row and visit different Stellenbosch wineries.

I thought this was a fantastic concept and it worked very well – and to me was probably one of the best wine tours Stellenbosch options.

⇒ Book the Southern Route Vine Hopper

⇒ Book the Northern Route Vine Hopper

⇒ Book the Eastern Route Vine Hopper

I took the Stellenbosch Vine Hopper Northern Route and made a full day of it visiting five of the six wineries. Simonsig was my personal favourite Stellenbosch wine farm and where I ordered wine to get sent to the UK.

I had lunch at Delheim wine estate which was lovely – sitting outside with a very tasty platter of cheese and meats.

2. Different Types of Transport Methods for visiting Stellenbosch wineries

How do you like to get between your vineyards? There are several transport options when it comes to Wine Tours Stellenbosch.

If you like a cycling wine tour there is a Half Day Stellenbosch Winelands Mountain Bike tour which includes two wine tastings or if you’re really keen a full day cycling trip from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek Valley which includes lunch and wine tastings.

Or how about wine and horses? There are lots of options in Stellenbosch here! There is a one-hour vineyard trail ride option or a two-hour vineyard trail ride .

There is a Stellenbosch half day Wine Tasting Horse Trail tour   that takes in both. Or if you really like horses there is a Full Day Wine Tasting and Horse Riding tour.

Or for a really different Stellenbosch wine tour check out this Full-Day Wine Tasting Tuk Tuk tour Stellenbosch . In addition to getting around Stellenbosch in a Tuk Tuk there are five wine tastings Stellenbosch stops and most of those also include food – from chocolate to biltong to cheese.

Expert Travel Tip: How to Get Stellenbosch Wine Home

Several of the wineries I visited work with Capreo . Capreo basically ships wine from South Africa all over the world. It is a great idea to sign up with Capreo and then make your purchases through them.

They then provide costs that include duty and taxes in your currency which is great. Also, once the wine arrives Capreo has already made all the payments so there is none of that hassle of having to organise additional payments etc.

I highly recommend using Capreo as I had a great and easy experience with them!

3. Full-Day Group Stellenbosch Wine Tasting Tours

⇒ Book Your Stellenbosch Day Trip from Cape Town Now

If you’re staying in Stellenbosch a Full Day Wine Tour is a great option. This wine tour kicks off at 930 and will take you to four wineries (with tastings of 4-6 wines per winery) and a cheese and charcuterie lunch platter wine pairing.

This full-day Stellenbosch South Africa wine tour visits Franschhoek and there is a chance to wander and it also visits a Nelson Mandela statue. The tour company will pick guests up from Cape Town for an additional fee.

If you’re staying in Cape Town and limited on time but want to see as much of South Africa’s wine country as possible then this Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl Full Day Wine Tour is for you.

This Stellenbosch Tour covers all three of the regions, cheese and biltong and three wine tastings. This one of the best options for wine route tours Cape Town.

Daily Different tours are a new offer. These are guaranteed small group wine tours (no more than 8 people) and focus on lesser-known “secret” wineries. 4-5 tastings are included as well as cheese or biltong and lunch.

Daily Different Tours can do a pick up from Stellenbosch or from Cape Town .

If you’re staying in Franschhoek try this Full-Day Cape Winelands tour which visits 5 wineries and covers Franschhoek, Paarl, and Stellenbosch. It finishes with a Diamond Cutting tour and bubbles.

Or why not experience the wine region with an actual winemaker? This full-day wine tour with a Stellenbosch Wine Maker is a small group tour with pick up and drop off in Stellenbosch.

4. Half-Day Group Tour Stellenbosch Wine Route

⇒ Hop on your bike and head off on the Half Day Stellenbosch Winelands Mountain Bike tour. 

⇒ Mix wine and horseriding on the half-day Wine Tasting Horse Trail tour .

⇒ Limited on time? Try this Half-Day Private Wine Tours Stellenbosch option .

5. Wine and More Group Tours

Combine wine with wildlife on the Full Day Wildlife Wine and Safari Tour . This tour’s first stop is a winery with wildlife. Then you’ll visit an Eagle rehabilitation centre and finish up with Crocodiles – and wine.

Or if you’re short on time and based in Cape Town this Half Day Wine Safari combines tastings at two wineries with a Big Cat Sanctuary and a Wild Bird Sanctuary.

Again, if you’re staying in Cape Town and like motors as well as wine then check out this Wine Safari with Franschhoek Motor Museum Tour . The tour focuses on Waterford Winery and also includes a chocolate tasting.

6. Food and Wine Group Tours

For a bit of everything check out this Wine, Chocolate, Cheese and Olive Oil Tasting tour . It’s a full-day tour from Stellenbosch. On the day you can choose which wine region South Africa you would like to visit.

7. Private Tours

There are quite a few private wine tour options. If you are based in Cape Town and keen to see as much of the wine country as possible this Cape Winelands tour is a good full-day wine tour option.

If you’re based in Stellenbosch and want to set your own itinerary for the day then this Stellenbosch Private Wine Tour is a great option. You will set the agenda for the day and can visit up to six different wine farms.

Or try a Half Day Stellenbosch Private Wine Tour .

If you are a big fan of red wine there is a South African Red Wine Focussed Private tour around Stellenbosch that will take you to 4 wine estates particularly known for their reds.

Or if you’re more partial to bubbles check out this Sparkling Sensation Private Tour of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch that focuses on the experts in South African sparkling wine.

And of course, if you have a car there are many options for self-drive wine tours Stellenbosch. Stellenbosh and the surrounding wine regions are quite easy to drive around – just make sure you spit.

How to Get To Stellenbosch

The closest airport to Stellenbosch is Cape Town  – which covers both international and domestic flights.

⇒ Flights to Cape Town

Hiring a car is the best way to get around the Cape. The roads around Cape Town are good and clearly signed and the distances are quite large. Plus there are lots of areas to turn off and explore.

⇒ Car Hire Cape Town

If you’re planning a big trip to South Africa check out this Ultimate South Africa Bucketlist to help you plan your trip. And don’t miss the lovely Cape Town! Here is a fantastic post on 45 great Things to Do in Cape Town.

Where to Stay in Stellenbosch

I stayed at the absolutely lovely Wedgeview Country House and Spa – it was my perfect type of boutique hotel. Wedgeview Country House is located a few minute’s drive from the town of Stellenbosch on a one-hectare plot.

This hotel in Stellenbosch is very much a mix of a boutique hotel and someone’s very stylish yet relaxing country residence.

There are 18 rooms on offer at Wedgeview Country House Stellenbosch- ranging from deluxe to the Presidential Suite. I stayed in a Vineyard Room at this Stellenbosch hotel.

The design style is comfortable Scandinavian – lots of soft colours, light, and wooden floors. My Vineyard Room at Wedgeview house Stelenbosch was on the first floor and came with stunning views over the vineyards.

The room at this Stellenbosch boutique hotel was a very good size – enough room for my things and to feel spacious without being too big. The bathroom is a separate room with a separate bath and shower.

I loved the wine-themed toiletries at Wedgeview Stellenbosch – I have always wanted to wash my hair in Merlot.

The sheets are Percale Linen at Wedgeview Hotel, there are bathrobes, flat-screen tv, strong wifi, and all the boutique mod cons. There is also a fully stocked mini-bar with wine and treats from the region.

Wedgeview South Africa also has two decent sized pools and loads of outdoor seating areas. There is an honesty bar – love that. It was possible to help yourself to different wines from the area and just write it down which was fun.

There is a restaurant at Wedgeview but it tends to offer one three-course option in the evening which must be booked ahead. Having said that I ate there both nights I stayed and the food was excellent.

Wedgeview’s restaurant also offers soup and/or Winelands platters with local cheese and meats. Wedgeview serves an a la carte lunch.

A fantastic buffet breakfast is included in your stay at Wedgeview. It also comes with a choice of hot meals and some excellent coffee.

If you’re looking for some balance in your enjoyment of the wine and food of Stellenbosch Wedgeview has a small gym. This Stellenbosch spa also has two treatment rooms and they offer facials, massages etc and there are a sauna and steam room.

The spa at Wedgeview House is open to both guests and those who are not staying.

The Wedgeview staff are extremely friendly and helpful – and knowledgeable about the area. Indeed I was heading to Hermanus after my stay and was advised about the stunning Cape Whale Route by the owner Dave which was a brilliant experience.

Who Paid for What in this Post

Wedgeview very kindly hosted my stay – thank you! This covered accommodation and breakfast so I covered the cost of dinner and wine. Viator covered the cost of my Vine hopper tour.

I paid for my hire car and flights in and out of South Africa. As always my opinions are all my own.

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click through on some of them and make a purchase I will receive a small commission. This will not impact the price that you pay. I just wanted to make sure that you knew this.

READ NEXT: SELF DRIVE NAMIBIA GUIDE OR FOR MORE WINE CHARLOTTESVILLE WINERIES

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Konstantina

Thursday 13th of December 2018

I clicked as soon as I read the word "wine". I couldn't agree more with you. I love wine and if course wine tasting.

Sigrid Says

Sunday 25th of November 2018

I never know about South AFrican wines. I only know about Italian, Spanish, and Californian wines. I have always dreamt of going on a wine tasting tour. Oh my gosh, now I know that I have a lot to learn.

The Boutique Adventurer

Monday 26th of November 2018

Thanks Sigrid - it sounds like you know your wines - I think you would really enjoy south african wines!

Saturday 24th of November 2018

I am not a big wine drinker but I would love try some South African wines.

Thanks! you may find South African wines change your mind!

what a beautiful place, the landscape is breathtaking. I would LOVE to visit there hopping from one wine tour to the next ; )

thanks Eloise - I highly recommend it! especially the wine hopping!

Thursday 22nd of November 2018

I have read a post somewhere about stellenbosch before and exactly about wine.. Cool this makes deep sense. Great tour and sure good wine... I love wine and this makes me wish to visit and have one.

Thanks Lex - the area is known for its great wine!

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Best Stellenbosch Wineries & Wine Tours (Updated 2024)

Learn About Some of the Best Wineries in Stellenbosch We Recommend Visiting in 2024

The Western Cape’s Stellenbosch wine region is among the most notable and oldest wine-producing areas in South Africa. Although the region produces a variety of different wines, Cabernet Sauvignon , Pinotage , Merlot and Shiraz are among the most famous. And who can say no to a Stellenbosch Chardonnay or Rosé?

With over 200 different wineries & vineyards set along the lush rolling hills, it may be difficult to decide which ones to visit. In order to stand out, many Stellenbosch wineries have curated tasting experiences beyond the typical wine flight. So, if you dream of pairing cupcakes, picnics and safaris with your Pinotage , these are the winery experiences you should have when visiting the region.

Make sure to reserve wine tastings and tours in advance online, via email or by calling each winery. We also highly recommend staying at the opulent Delaire Graff Estate and using it as a home base while you visit nearby wineries. For a more thorough and epic experience, be sure to also look at our recommended 2-week South Africa itinerary .

Safari & Wine at Waterford

Top wineries & wine tours to try in stellenbosch.

Without further ado, here are some of our top picks for wineries to visit in Stellenbosch if you’re brave enough to do it in a self-guided fashion. If you’d prefer not to drive and want a local’s perspective, our current favorite recommended private wine tour leaves from Cape Town, and includes stops at 5 stunning wineries. However, perhaps the best way to explore Stellenbosch is to go wine tasting by bike. This guided tour offered by Adventureshop Stellenbosch has received countless 5-star ratings from our readers. It takes you on a 4-5 hour bike ride through the historic city center and includes stops at two luxurious wine estates, as well as the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. If you’re still looking for more guided options, we’ve included more of our favorites towards the bottom of this list of top wineries.

Picnic & Wine at Warwick

If lounging on a fluffy picnic blanket and pillow with a glass of wine in hand sounds like the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon, a picnic at Warwick Wine Estate should suit your tastes. Gourmet picnic baskets (approximately $20 per person) come with items like a pear and pecan salad, followed by local specialty beef biltong and gorgonzola, and ending with cape honey cheesecake with strawberries for dessert. Wine is purchased separately, and a bottle of the Warwick First Lady Rosé? It pairs perfectly with the basket on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Winetraveler Tip: Both vegan and vegetarian gourmet picnic boxes are available. Want to sit by the lake? No problem. You can even reserve your exact picnic table or blanket with a sun umbrella via a map of the grounds via the website .

Indian Runner Ducks & Wine at Vergenoegd Löw

The Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate features a variety of wines that are available to try in their tasting room (a five-one tasting costs about $6). Their Runner Duck variety is aptly named, considering the farm on the estate is home to over 1,200 Indian Runner Ducks. But these duckies aren’t just adorable, they’re there for a special purpose: pest control. The ducks consume the snails and bugs that threaten the vines during their daily rounds.

Winetraveler Tip: Make sure to tour the duck pens and breeding rooms post-wine-tasting with a duck herd guide. Or, enjoy one of the duck parades at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm seven days a week.

Cupcakes & Wine at Delheim

If you’ve always wanted to test out how cupcakes and wine mesh, you can do so at Delheim . And not to spoil the outcome, but they actually fit perfectly together. The tasting, which costs about $8.50, features four unique cupcakes each with its own special wine pairing. The honeybush cupcake highlights the Chardonnay Sur Lie’s fruity, floral flavors, while the rooibos cupcake topped with cream cheese and cinnamon highlights the nuanced oak flavors of the Pinotage. The tasting is available daily between 10:00 am and 4:30 pm.

Winetraveler Tip: You’ll never have to worry about lack of freshness at Delheim — all of the cupcakes are baked fresh daily.

Olive Oil & Wine at Morgenster

Morgenster is just as famous for its olive oil as its wine, and they produce pure extra virgin olive oil with no additives. The wine range includes Bordeaux-style blends as well as Italian varieties. You can sample the full range of olive oils paired with three wines for about $5.50. The estate is especially beautiful as less than half is used to house the vines and olive trees. The rest of the lush land is wild and serene.

Winetraveler Tip: Have lunch at the onsite restaurant, 95 at Morgenster , pre- or post-tasting.

Chocolate & Wine at Spier

The grounds at Spier Wine Farm are simply gorgeous, with an onsite lake and even a hotel. The tasting room is luminous and airy, the perfect place to pair wine and chocolate. Sample three of the Spier Creative Block blends paired with special chocolates, both white and dark. This particular tasting is $5, and if you aren’t feeling the chocolate you can always just do a wine and cheese tasting instead.

Winetraveler Tip: Bring the kids along — they can try the children’s grape juice tasting ($3), which includes a play packet, a tasting of two different grape juices, and an educational activity sheet.

Bubbles, Sabrage & Boozy Popsicles at House of J.C. Le Roux

If you ever wanted to open sparkling wine with a sword, this demonstration at J.C. Le Roux will show you how with a traditional ceremonial sabrage demonstration. Plus, you’ll sample four different sparkling wines from the Methode Cap Classiques collection ($7). You can always accompany your bubbly with a platter of cheese or fresh oysters. Make sure to book at least 24 hours in advance.

Winetraveler Tip: Enjoy a refreshing sparkling wine popsicle on a hot day. These come in three flavors: strawberry and Sauvignon Blanc, litchi and Vibrazio demi-sec and a non-alcoholic strawberry and cream option.

This safari is a little different from others in South Africa — instead of lions, expect to see a lot of vines! But the concept is the same: you’ll take a safari vehicle deep out into the 120-hectare Waterford Wine Estate , which is bordered by the Helderberg Mountain (the three-hour adventure is about $90). You’ll learn all about the estate’s organic wine cultivation and of course, enjoy a wine tasting complete with snacks. If you prefer to stroll instead of ride, the winery also offers wine walks of varying intensity which also culminate in wine tasting and a light lunch ($38).

Winetraveler Tip: Wine safaris must be booked a week or more in advance.

Getting to Stellenbosch, Where to Stay, & Tour Options

To explore Stellenbosch vineyards, you’ll first have to get yourself to Cape Town, which is now possible nonstop on United from Newark Airport (EWR). Or, you can fly from the US with a layover in a spot like Johannesburg or London. Check for deals on flights into Cape Town here.

Once there, the Stellenbosch wine region is less than an hour’s drive away. We recommend renting a car , as it’s easy enough to do in a day trip, or you can spend the night there (or several) to ensure you get a chance to try all of the Stellenbosch winery experiences mentioned above. If you still haven’t settled on lodging, take a look at some of the best hotels in the Stellenbosch region here, but if we had to choose a great option as a base with vineyards on site, you should try this luxury vineyard hotel .

Wine Tours in Stellenbosch

As we’ve mentioned, it’s fairly easily visit any of the recommended wineries above in a self-guided fashion, but often, nothing compares to a local’s experience. Tour operators like Afrivista have been around for decades and our readers rave about them. If they happen to be booked (which is common), don’t fret. There are plenty of other guides that operate in the area offering wonderful half-day and full-day wine tasting experiences. Africa Select offers a full-day tour through 3 sub-regions, including local food and wine pairings and a ride on a wine tram.

If you’d prefer to avoid other people, schedule a private full-day trip with Elegant Country Tours , we highly recommend this group for each guide’s exceptional service and love for their country’s experiences. It’s customizable and hotel pickup/drop-off are included.

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15 best wine farm destinations in stellenbosch.

With winter in full bloom, especially over the cape, hunkering down at beautiful wine farm destinations in Stellenbosch with some wine sounds like the best weekend plan.

These 15 spots should all go on your bucket list. Classic vineyard views, clinking glasses, and a delicious red to warm you down to your toes are all reasons to visit.

‘Good wine from a good place’ is Spier’s catchphrase, and it couldn’t ring more true. whether it’s a picnic, at the farm cafe, or the hotel restaurant, there are many places to enjoy a meal and some wine when at Spier.

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2. Blaauwklippen

Picture: Blaauwklippen Vineyards

As one of the oldest wine farms in Stellenbosch, Blaauwklippen should go on your list of wine farm destinations to visit in Stellenbosch. The farm’s rich history and winemaking traditions are what make this a top spot to spend the day.

ALSO READ: Cheers! South Africa’s wonderful wine routes

3. Lanzerac

Lanzerac is the third oldest farm in the Stellenbosch region and has become an iconic landmark. With views of mountain ranges, old oak trees, and lovely vineyards, this wine farm offers more than just a good glass of wine.

ALSO READ: A classy pub crawl: 5 wine Bars in Stellenbosch

4. Uva Mira Mountain Vineyards

Picture: Uva Mira

Translated as ‘our wonderful grape’ in Latin, Uva Mira Vineyards ‘ wonderful grapes are made into wonderful wines on their stunning estate. Enjoy the Helderberg Mountain Range as you enjoy a day at Uva Mira.

5. Hazendal Wine Estate

If you’re looking for a spot where some golf can be played, the kids can be entertained, and there’s a good bottle of wine waiting to be enjoyed, then Hazendal Wine Estate is the perfect place for you.

6. Tokara Wine Estate

Escape to Tokara for the day where good food and great wine are always in order. The mountain views are an added bonus, and you will leave feeling as though you’ve been on holiday.

7. Zorgvliet

Described as nothing less than a haven, Zorgvliet is an idyllic wine estate just seven kilometers outside of Stellenbosch. Enjoy a picnic at the foot of the Simonsberg or a more formal meal in their Oakroom venue.

8. Jordan Wine Estate

Dating back over 300 years, the Jordans took over the farm in 1993 and took on an ‘extensive replanting programme, specialising in classic varieties suited to the different soils and slopes.’ The panoramic views only make the whole experience even more incredible.

9. Stark-Condé Wines

Self-taught cellarmaster Jose Condé has dedicated himself to producing award-winning wines at the Stark-Condé Wines estate. Neighbouring the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, this is a great wine farm destination in Stellenbosch to escape to.

10. Delaire Graff Estate

Wine, cuisine, and art are all on offer at the Delaire Graff Estate , designed by jeweller, Laurence Graff. It is the perfect setting for a weekend escape to the winelands.

11. Delheim Wines

This family-run wine farm estate on the slopes of Simonsberg prides itself on its award-winning wines and sustainable farming practices. Grab some friends and spend a day at Delheim , sipping delectable wines.

12. Rust en Vrede

Step into history at the 300-year-old Rust en Vrede wine estate and enjoy their warm and rich Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, their main focus and pride and joy.

13. Villiera Wine

Through consistency and excellence, Villiera Wine has nabbed several awards for its delicious wines. This wine farm destination in Stellenbosch is an interactive one, as self-tours are encouraged to learn more about the wine-making process.

14. Waterford Wine Estate

The Waterford Wine Estate is situated within the breathtaking Waterford Wine Estate. The estate offers a wine walk, a wine drive safari, as well as a fine dining experience that you can take advantage of when you visit.

15. Middelvlei Wine Estate

This family-friendly farm is the perfect weekend escape, with a beautiful big verandah for summer, and a warm fireplace to snuggle up next to in winter. Middelvlei Wine Estate offers a truly South African experience where you can pair your wine with a meal that comes straight off the ‘braai.’

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Eastern Route

The vine hopper day ticket is the most cost effective way to experience a stellenbosch wine tour. you decide which of the below farms you would like to visit and how long you would like to stay. you can pay for tastings, tours or activities as you go along..

• PLEASE NOTE: Subject to availablity, this route is operated with our safari vehicle, clients need to be able to climb the stepladder.

The Eastern Route Stellenbosch wine tour operates every day Monday to Friday and showcases some of the best wines and views Stellenbosch has to offer.

Experience the splendour of the Helshoogte pass and it’s wine farms on this tour. Start your day with a unique Chocolate and wine pairing at Lanzerac wine estate.

At the beautiful Neil Ellis you can combine your wine tasting with a meat and cheese platter while enjoying incredible views towards Simonsberg.

At Le Pommier you can enjoy a relaxed restaurant and tastings in the garden.

There is a lot to see and do at the ever impressive Boschendal with it’s  homegrown organic menus and lovely wine. 

You could choose to end your day at Zorgvliet , sipping wine while overlooking the beautiful vineyard and mountain scenery of the Banhoek valley.

The lovely relaxed settings make this a must do route. Remember, you can decide if you want to go to all 5 estates or just visit a few and stay longer at certain farms.

Price: R410 per person

• Transport and driver.
• Collection in Stellenbosch
• Wine tastings rates are not included but it ranges from R55.00 to R120.00 per person per tasting.

Special note

Farms on the Eastern Route

Lanzerac Wine Estate, established in 1692, is one of the oldest wine farms in the Cape. It is an iconic cellar with a rich history and a worldwide reputation for well-crafted quality wines. The grand old lady of Stellenbosch’s eastern suburbs, Lanzerac’s splendidly restored Cape Dutch farmstead and werf are home to a luxury resort hotel oering a quintessential winelands experience at the gateway of the Jonkershoek valley. Lanzerac is home to the world’s first bottled Pinotage in 1961. At the tasting room you can do a normal tasting or enjoy a chocolate and wine pairing. 

Neil is one of the dozens of the South African wine industry. He has journeyed from pioneering négociant beginnings in the early 1980’s, seeking out parcels of interesting vines to make exceptional wines under his own name, to a well established family enterprise with a local and international reputation for exceptional elegance and quality. Enjoy your wine tasting in the modern tasting room with outside views towards the spectacular Simonsberg Mountain.

This family-friendly, wine farm boasts magnificent mountain views of the picturesque Banhoek valley. The Le Pommier Wine range is a product of this valley which is notably one of the top wine regions in South Africa. Le Pommier Wines are good quality wines, best enjoyed with great company, family, friends, love and laughter, with or without food. The Le Pommier restaurant offers a cosy atmosphere specialising in traditional Cape cuisine dishes. The a la carte menu has something for everyone with delicious dishes at affordable prices.

Founded in 1685, Boschendal is one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa,  surrounded by the dramatic mountainous landscape of the Drakenstein Valley. At the centre of the estate is the Cape Dutch style Manor House, a historical monument which is open for visitors daily from 9.30 to 17h00. Boschendal also caters for dierent lunch options with the Werf Restaurant, a Deli and Picnic baskets. Gardens and play areas make this estate a great family destination.

At Zorgvliet we believe in elegance in wine and that the consumer should be able to taste the unique terroir of the Banhoek valley in every sip of Zorgvliet’s wines! We offer family friendly experiences, as well as informative wine tastings and local venison biltong. We have an awesome picnic venue with a restaurant and a newly added jungle gym for the kiddies.  The tasting room has an absolute breath taking view of the Banhoek Valley situated at the foot of the Simonsberg mountain. Our  focus is on the Bordeaux variaties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot).

Eastern Route: Time Table

This route operates monday to friday.

Visit Stellenbosch

10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 Final Collection

10:05 11:05 12:05 13:05 14:05 15:05 16:05

10:10 11:10 12:10 13:10 14:10 15:10 16:10

10:20 11:20 12:20 13:20 14:20 15:20 16:20

10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 16:30

10:45 11:45 12:45 13:45 14:45 15:45 16:45

(Please be advised that the later you depart the less farms you will be able to see)

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12 Amazing Stellenbosch Wine Tasting Experiences

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Any trip to Cape Town would be incomplete without a visit to the best Stellenbosch wineries in the Cape Winelands. Discover a dozen incredible wine tasting experiences and plan a Stellenbosch wine tour.

South Africa is a hidden wine gem destination.

Sure, you can drink South African wine almost anywhere in the world. However, there’s nothing like drinking it at the source. And not just because of the epic views. We’re talking about the wine itself.

The wines of the Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch in particular) are extraordinary. As a bonus, world-class South African wines won’t bust your wallet. And those views…

The Cape Winelands has carved a wine identity with signature varietals like Pinotage and Chenin Blanc. However, don’t underestimate the astounding quality wines produced from common grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and even Chardonnay surprised us.

These wines are world-class quality too.

We’ve tasted some of the greatest vintages of the last 30 years including wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Piemonte, Alsace and Tuscany. We’ve enjoyed great wines from California, Oregon and Australia.

We were pleasantly shocked by the quality of wine in South Africa.

To make the South Africa wine situation even better, many of the great South African wines are produced in one of the most beautiful places on earth. In Stellenbosch, vineyards are set at the foot of jutting mountain peaks shrouded by misty clouds that evoke a Shangri-la like landscape.

The quality of Stellenbosch wine should be no surprise since the Stellenbosch weather is ideal for growing grapes. Everything about its mineral-rich soil to Southern South Africa’s hot, dry climate allows grapes to reach their potential. In other words, Stellenbosch wine producers have an enviable palette for their work.

Best of all, wine tasting in Stellenbosch is a casual experience that visitors can easily enjoy without pomp and circumstance.

At wineries like Peter Falke Wines, it’s entirely possible to buy wine (we recommend an affordable bottle of Cab), plop down on a bean bag chair in the beautifully manicured garden, order a wonderful cheese sampling and melt into the bucolic, golden sunset – a sunset that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Stellenbosch Wine Tasting Experiences

The best place to drink South African wine is at the source, and we suggest you start with the 150+ wineries located along the Stellenbosch Wine Route. Not only do these wineries produce extraordinary wines, but many offer themed tastings with foods as varied as cheese, biltong, ice cream and cupcakes.

When we weren’t eating at Stellenbosch restaurants , we visited as many Stellenbosch wine farms as our livers could handle during our six-day visit and can honestly report that there were no clunkers. Not one.

We highly recommend staying overnight in Stellenbosch . You can stay at a range of Stellenbosch hotels , many of which are conveniently located on or adjacent to wine farms.

This approach will give you more time to drink some of the best wine in South Africa, if not the world. Plus, you don’t have to worry about driving back to Cape Town when you stay overnight.

However, we understand that not everybody has enough time to sleep in Stellenbosch as part of a South Africa vacation . If you fall into this camp, you can take one of the following tours from Cape Town and leave the driving to somebody else:

• Cape Town: Full-Day Shared Wine Tasting Tour
• From Cape Town: Winelands Full Day Tour and Wine Tasting
• Private Full-Day Wine Tour and Tasting from Cape Town
• From Cape Town: Cape Winelands Full-Day Private Tour
• Cape Town: Cape Winelands Full-Day Shared Tour

However, if you have the time and stamina to plan your own Stellenbosch wine tour, we say do it!

Not-To-Miss Stellenbosch Wineries

As much as we enjoyed tasting wine in Stellenbosch, a handful of wineries stood out to us foremost for the quality of their wines and secondarily for the wonderful wine tasting experiences that they provide.

In our opinion, the following wineries offer some of the best wine tastings in Stellenbosch:

Peter Falke Wines

Peter Falke Wines knocked our socks off. We’re not just saying that because owner Peter Falke made his fortune by selling socks in Europe.

The hosiery mogul bought the Stellenbosch wine farm in 1995 and produced his first wine, a Cabernet, in 2003. Today, winemaker Werner Shernek produces more varietals, most of them red.

You need to visit Peter Falke to taste many of them since the winery chooses to distribute its wine primarily to restaurants and boutique stores. The grounds of the winery are nothing short of gorgeous, with a colorful rose garden, designed by Falke’s Parisienne wife Danièle, and views of the Helderberg Mountains in the distance.

Interestingly, Peter Falke Wines does not host weddings or other private events. Instead, the winery chooses to keep the property open to visitors looking to enjoy good wine in a breathtakingly chill environment.

Pro Tip Order a cheese plate to go with your wine and the view. Also, be sure to try the Bordeaux style Exclusive Blend with 85% Cabernet, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot.

Peter Falke Wines is located at Groenvlei Farm, Annandale Road, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.

Meinert Wines

Off the typical tourist track, Meinert Wines conducts limited tastings by appointment only. These tastings don’t include any sugary treats or a flashy tasting room. At this Stellenbosch winery, wine tastings are all about the wine and the man who makes it.

A former journalist from Namibia, Martin Meinert trained and studied as a winemaker and worked at top South African vineyards (including the legendary Vergelegen Wine Estate in the 1990s) before opening his self-named winery. He quietly runs his boutique winery by annually producing 80,000 bottles of affordably priced, age-worthy wines, each bottle labeled by hand and sealed with a screw top.

If you’re skeptical about wine bottles without corks, these luscious, complex wines will turn you into a screw-top believer.

Pro Tip Buy a bottle of Synchronicity, the top Meinert wine with 55% Cabernet and a blend of Pinotage, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot grapes, to enjoy later. Better yet, buy a case or two.

Meinert Wines is located at Devon Crest Vineyards, Devon Valley, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.

Ken Forrester Wines

Known as the “Home of Chenin” for the wonderful Chenin Blanc wines they produce, Ken Forrester Wines also makes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon. Many of the wines here sparkle with fruit-forward flavors including the aptly named Sparklehorse, a white sparkling wine produced with 100% Chenin Blanc grapes grown on 37-year-old vines.

Discover our favorite sparkling wine cocktails .

A tasting at Ken Forrester includes either six tastes or the full range of wines, with the winery waiving the fee for tasters who purchase two or more bottles after the tasting. We recommend ordering a cheese plate to enjoy with the wine tasting.

Be sure to select several Chenins to taste since this is the “House of Chenin” after all. Then just sip and nibble away the afternoon at the winery’s lovely outdoor tasting room.

Pro Tip Don’t be surprised if you love the FMC, a Chenin Blanc that fizzes with minerality. Martin Meinert (see above) produces this wine for Ken Forrester Wines.

Ken Forrester Wines is located at Scholtzenhof Farm, 96 Winery Road, R44, 7600, South Africa.

Glenelly Estate

Proving that it’s never too early to reinvent yourself, May de Lencquesaing sold her ancestral winery in Bordeaux and started Glenelly Estate on a former fruit farm on the Stellenbosch Wine Route at age 78. That was over a decade ago, and both de Lencquesaing and the winery are going strong.

She doesn’t do it alone though. Winemaker Luke O’Cuinneagain runs a tight ship in Glenelly’s pristine, modern facility, utilizing his previous experiences in Bordeaux and Napa to make bold red wines rooted in South African soil.

We were surprised to discover the winery’s excellent, crisp Chardonnay – the kind of varietal we don’t usually associate with the hot Cape Winelands climate. As O’Cuinneagain explained to us, the Stellenbosch soil never suffered through the ice age, making it older and more weathered compared to the soil in Europe and the Americas.

O’Cuinneagain produces three wine ranges, including the Lady May, all of which can be sampled during an on-site tasting. If you’re hungry, you can order an accompanying cheese plate from the onsite bistro.

Pro Tip Take some time to peruse the winery’s spectacular glass collection. Not only do its pieces span the centuries, but it also happens to be one of the largest private glass collections in the world.

Glenelly Estate is located at Ida’s Valley, Lelie Street, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.

L’Avenir Wine Estate

If L’Avenir represents the future of South African wine, then that future looks bright. Owned by a French company, the winery’s name of L’Avenir literally translates to “the future” in French.

This French theme carries over to the mostly French barrels (except for those from Hungary), but L’Avenir’s grapes are purely South African. The team at L’Avenir picks these grapes by hand before Winemaker Dirk Coetzee transforms them into highly drinkable wines.

Although the winery makes some fun Rose and sparkling Methode Cap Classique wines, the real winners at L’Avenir are the big fruit-forward Pinotage wines. Be sure to try L’Avenirs best in class Single Block wines.

We stayed overnight at the L’Avenir Country Lodge in a lovely room with a private pool. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, eat great food and drink excellent wine.

Pro Tip Do your tasting outside in a serene spot overlooking water and vines. Better yet, pair your wine tasting with a selection of Wagyu beef biltong from Ken Forrester Wines. (See above.)

L’Avenir Wine Estate is located at Off R44, Klapmuts Road, R44, Stellenbosch, 7599, South Africa.

Middelvlei Wine Estate

Owned by the Momberg family, Middelvlei Wine Estate clocks in as one of the five biggest wine farms in Stellenbosch. Despite its size covering 160 hectares, the winery manages to feel intimate and fun with its grazing cows, outdoor braai, tapas menu and wine blending.

Sure, you could visit Middelvlei just to taste the mostly red wine produced at this certified sustainable farm, but you’d be missing out on half the fun.

Instead, join Alsace the dog for a cellar tour and learn about how the Mombergs produce their free-range Pinotage and why they repurpose barrels for their Rooster wines. If you’re lucky, you can even “steal” some wine from a barrel for a bonus taste.

Pro Tip Be sure to include at least 40% Pinotage grapes when you blend your own wine at Middelvlei. This is the minimum for your wine to qualify as a Cape Blend. By sheer luck, we included 50% Pinotage in ours plus 40% Shiraz and 10% Merlot.

Middelvlei Wine Estate is located at Middelvlei Wine Estate, Flamingo Street, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.

Fun Stellenbosch Wine Tastings

Now that you’ve tasted some of the best Stellenbosch wines, it’s time to let your hair down and have fun by… tasting wine yet again. But now you’re ready for the more unique Stellenbosch tasting experiences.

If you’re looking for a bit of fun when you taste wine in Stellenbosch, we recommend the following six unique experiences:

Vergenoegd Wine Estate

Vergenoegd Wine Estate is a great winery to visit on Saturdays when the winery’s weekly market is in full force. But don’t fret if you can’t make the market. This winery lives up to its name by offering fun activities every day of the week. FYI, vergenoegd translates to satisfaction.

We recommend that you take a tea blending class at Vergenoegd as we did during our visit. Jan Mahlangu guided us through the process of blending Rooibos, Buho and Tanzanian leaves. We had so much fun that we followed this session by blending coffee beans from Uganda and Ethiopia.

Though Vergenoegd has an indoor tasting room, we chose to taste wine on the outdoor deck. Not only did this choice allow us to soak up some sun, but it also gave us a front-row seat for the winery’s duck parade.

Trust us – you do NOT want to miss one of Africa’s wildest animal experiences when you visit Stellenbosch.

Pro Tip Plan your visit around the daily duck parades at Vergenoegd. This parade features 1,000 Indian Ducks. Though we’re admittedly tough to impress, we were wowed by these marching canards.

Vergenoegd Wine Estate is located at Baden Powell Drive, Faure, Stellenbosch, 7131, South Africa.

Clos Malverne Wine Farm

If you love ice cream, why not do an Ice Cream and Wine Tasting? It sounds weird, we must admit, but Chef Nadia Louw Smith creates seasonal ice creams that pair well with the estate’s Clos Malverne wines.

We’re not just talking about typical vanilla and chocolate flavors. Her sophisticated flavors include the likes of Saffron Cheesecake with Sesame Brittle (paired with Chardonnay) and Salted Coconut with Lime and White Chocolate (paired with Sauvignon Blanc).

Pro Tip Be sure to make an advance reservation for your Ice Cream and Wine Tasting. The popular restaurant at Clos Malverne is rated #1 on TripAdvisor.

Clos Malverne Wine Farm is located at Devon Valley Road, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.

Delheim Wine Estate

Now that you’ve tried an ice cream pairing, why not keep the fun going with a cupcake pairing?

Delheim Wine Estate has been offering a Cupcake and Wine Pairing since 2013. Don’t be afraid if you’re not big on sweets – these cupcakes skew toward the savory side with flavors like Pomegranate, Rooibos, Pumpkin and Makataan. To us though, this tasting was all about the wines including a big, bold Shiraz aged for 12 years.

Pro Tip Arrive early and eat lunch at the delightful restaurant at Delheim Wine Estate. During our lunch, we ate dishes like Cape Malay Free Range Curry with Homemade Rotie and the Cold-Smoked Salmon Salad pictured here. Also, be sure to sit on the deck during your meal so that you can enjoy the beautiful view with your lunch as well as a glass or two of wine.

Delheim Wine Estate is located at Knorhoek Road, Stellenbosch, 7599, South Africa.

Avontuur Estate

If you fancy fine wine and fast horses, then a visit to the lush grounds owned by the Taberer family is a must. During our visit, 40 magnificent Thoroughbreds (38 mares and 2 stallions) blew us away with their graceful limbs and powerful muscles.

The winery offers a fun tasting pairing five of their wines paired with candy from Basilei Handcrafted Confectionery , a local shop that specializes in fudge and nougat. Request a taste of the Cabernet Franc – it’s owner Michael Taberer’s favorite wine from the estate and ours too.

Pro Tip Don’t feel compelled to eat all of the candy during the tasting. In fact, we recommend that you taste the wine without candy so that you can appreciate the flavors without hindrance. Plus, candy makes for a great late-night snack after a day of wine tasting.

Avontuur Estate is located at 7130 R44, Firgrove Rural, Somerset West, 7130, South Africa.

Die Bergkelder

** Important Update – Die Bergkelder has permanently closed. **

Although pairing salt and wine sound bizarre, the Salt and Wine Pairing at Die Bergkelder is a fun way to taste unfiltered Fleur du Cap wine while learning about salts from around the world. Don’t worry – the tasting doesn’t literally involve eating salt with a spoon.

Instead, the salt is served with foods like Green Olive Tapenade and Chicken Liver Pate. During our tasting, we sampled salts from Pakistan, Hawaii, Himalaya and South Africa.

Pro Tip Stock up on wine and corks when you’re at Die Bergkelder. The wine shop stocks over 275 wines for sale at all price points, not to mention some really fun wine bottle toppers. Despite the popularity of screw tops in South Africa, these corks are really fun. Or, you can buy tasty salted caramels as we did.

Die Bergkelder was located at George Blake Street, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa. It has permanently closed.

Tokara Wine Estate

“Olive oil is not fashion. It’s passion.”

When you need a break from wine tasting (trust us, it happens), why not try an olive oil tasting at Tokara? Gert van Dyk runs the olive oil program with a high level of passion and Italian presses. His olive oil sells out every year, with bottles sold locally in South African and as far away as Taiwan and the United States .

During a tasting, you can try our best to identify flavors like rocket, lettuce, tomato and green praline. Hopefully, you’ll do better than us since we found that all of the olive oils tasted like… olive oil.

Pro Tip Be sure to taste van Dyk’s experimental olive oil. You will love its bold, unfiltered flavor profile.

Tokara Wine Estate is located at Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.

Plan Your Stellenbosch Trip

Stellenbosch Transportation

The drive from Cape Town to Stellenbosch takes less than one hour. Although you could easily do a Stellenosch day trip from Cape Town, we recommend a multi-night stay so that you have time to visit more Stellenbosch wine estates and restaurants without feeling rushed. We stayed in four hotels over six days in Stellenbosch, and we didn’t get bored even for a minute.

As for transportation, your best bet is to rent a car in Cape Town so that you can drive to all the wineries as well as the best restaurants in Stellenbosch. Other options include public transportation (i.e. a bus or train) to downtown Stellenbosch or Uber, a popular car-share service in South Africa.

Once you’re in Stellenbosch, Uber is a great option since you can taste wine without worrying about assigning a designated driver. You can also arrange a Stellenbosch wine tour with companies like Cape Food & Wine Tours .

Stellenbosch Wine Video

Watch our YouTube video to see us taste wine with Luke O’Cuinneagain, the winemaker at Glenelly Estate.

Stellenbosch Planning Checklist

• Buy discounted travel insurance from Heymondo .
• We stayed at four great hotels in Stellenbosch . Check them out unless you’d rather find a hotel using Booking.com , Expedia or Hotels.com .
• Find an apartment in Stellenbosch with a kitchen .
• Buy a universal travel adaptor from Amazon so you can charge your laptop, cell phone and camera in South Africa.
• Buy a South Africa travel guide from Amazon so that you don’t miss a bite, site or sip.
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a fun Stellenbosch tour via GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book a tasty Stellenbosch food experience .

Thirsty For More Wine?

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Sponsorship We thank Stellenbosch Wine Route for sponsoring our Stellenbosch trip to facilitate this and other articles.

Original Publication Date: August 1, 2017

Tuesday 26th of November 2019

I was lucky enough to have a private tour of Delheim whilst on a sailing trip a while back and remember the charcuterie board being excellent (as well as the wine). Stellenbosch is such a gorgeous area. Two and half months sounds like about the right length of time for a wine route trip ????

Saturday 5th of August 2017

OMG, ice cream and wine tasting? Dreams do come true.

I appreciate the detail in this list, definitely saving this for next time I'm in SA. I was lucky enough to have a private tour of Delheim whilst on a sailing trip a while back and remember the charcuterie board being excellent (as well as the wine). Stellenbosch is such a gorgeous area. Two and half months sounds like about the right length of time for a wine route trip :)

I've heard such great things about this wine region in South Africa and I loved reading more about it!

Melinda Crow

I am impressed-- and eager to make this an adventure to try SOON! Thanks for the thorough write up. And the ducks?!! How amazing is that?

Oh I am so happy to see this post! Stellenbosch wineries are on my wine region bucket list. I love the Sauvignon Blanc from Stellenbosch especially. So fresh, fruity, and hints of the sea. The perfect wine pairing with fresh seafood.

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THE 10 BEST Stellenbosch Wineries & Vineyards

Wineries & vineyards in stellenbosch.

• Wineries & Vineyards
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Cooking Classes
• Farmers Markets
• Distillery Tours
• Distilleries
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Waterford Estate

2. Jordan Wine Estate

3. Spier Wine Farm

4. Delaire Graff Estate

5. House of J.C. Le Roux

6. Ernie Els Wines

7. Uva Mira Mountain Vineyards

8. Lanzerac Wine Estate

9. Tokara Wine Estate

10. Rust en Vrede Tasting Room

11. Stark-Condé Wines

12. Neethlingshof Estate

13. Delheim

14. Marianne Wine Estate

15. Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate

16. Villiera Wines

17. Thelema Mountain Vineyards

18. Blaauwklippen Wine Estate

19. Simonsig

20. Oldenburg Vineyards

21. Vredenheim

22. Muratie

23. Middelvlei

24. Kanonkop Wine Estate

25. Remhoogte Wine Estate

26. Louisvale

27. Peter Falke Winery

28. Rustenberg Wines

29. Hidden Valley Wines

30. Zorgvliet Wine Estate

What travellers are saying

• Wine Tour: Paarl, Franschhoek & Stellenbosch incl 3 wineries
• Wine tour to Stellenbosch & Franschhoek • incl tastings & lunch
• Stellenbosch Half Day Wine Tour
• Half-Day Stellenbosch Winelands Tour from Cape Town
• Private Full-Day Stellenbosch Wine Tour
• Waterford Estate
• Spier Wine Farm
• Delaire Graff Estate
• Jordan Wine Estate
• Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate
• Warwick Wine Estate
• Hazendal Wine Estate
• Uva Mira Mountain Vineyards
• House of J.C. Le Roux
• Villiera Wines
• Stark-Condé Wines
• Thelema Mountain Vineyards
• Marianne Wine Estate

6 Best Stellenbosch Wine Estates

Stellenbosch, situated in the heart of South Africa's wine country, is home to some of the world's most renowned wineries. South Africa's most renowned wine region, is steeped in winemaking history that dates back to

Stellenbosch, situated in the heart of South Africa’s wine country, is home to some of the world’s most renowned wineries. South Africa’s most renowned wine region, is steeped in winemaking history that dates back to the late 17th century, where every vine tells a story of passion and dedication.

With sprawling vineyards spanning over 30,000 acres, Stellenbosch is a wine lover’s paradise and one of the largest wine-producing districts in the country. Over 150 wineries dot the landscape, each offering a unique blend of flavors and aromas. Experience the unique charm of Stellenbosch, where cool, misty winters and scorching hot summers create the perfect Mediterranean climate.

Nestled amidst majestic mountains like Simonsberg, Stellenbosch, Helderberg, and Jonkershoek, this district is a treasure trove of diverse geography. With elevations ranging from 490 to 1,312 feet above sea level, and a rich history of geological formations and deposits spanning millions of years, Stellenbosch boasts an incredible array of soils. From decomposed granite to sandstone and alluvial soils on clay bases, there are as many as 50 different soil types to be found here, making it a true haven for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

6 Best Stellenbosch wineries

For years, the wineries of Stellenbosch have been captivating wine enthusiasts worldwide with their exceptional craftsmanship and exquisite flavors.

With each passing year, their reputation as pioneers in the wine industry only continues to blossom, leaving wine connoisseurs eager to explore the treasures of this renowned wine region.

Rust en Vrede Wine Estate

Photo credit: Rust en Vrede Wine Estate

If you’re looking for a taste of “Rest and Peace,” look no further than Rust en Vrede , a historic winery at the foot of the majestic Helderberg Mountain in South Africa. With a name that translates to “Rest and Peace” in Dutch, Rust en Vrede’s story dates back to 1694 when Willem Adrian van der Stel, the Governor of the Cape, established the estate.

However, Jannie and Ellen Engelbrecht acquired Rust en Vrede in 1977 and embarked on a journey to restore its former glory. The first order of business for the Engelbrechts was to restore and equip the original winery.

With meticulous care and attention to detail, the couple completed the restoration, and in 1978, Rust en Vrede produced its first vintage of the modern era. The vineyards were replanted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot, carefully chosen to thrive in the unique terroir.

Nestled between 85 and 130 meters above sea level, Rust en Vrede enjoys a microclimate ideal for cultivating red grape varieties. Protected from the south-easterly wind by the Helderberg and Stellenbosch mountains and shielded from the south-westerly wind by the foothills of the Helderberg, Rust en Vrede’s vineyards bask in a warmer growing environment.

This microcosm creates the perfect conditions for producing full-bodied wines with a powerful structure and exceptional aging potential. In 2000, Rust en Vrede became the first South African red wine named in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of the World , a feat they repeated for four consecutive years.

They were also named again in 2012, earning this distinction for a fifth time. The hallmarks of Rust en Vrede’s wines are complexity and balance, a testament to the winery’s unwavering commitment to crafting remarkable wines from their exceptional estate.

When you visit Rust en Vrede, you can experience their range of wines at their welcoming tasting room, which is open seven days a week. Knowledgeable and friendly staff guide you through tastings, and informal underground cellar tours are available upon request.

For a truly special experience, indulge in Rust en Vrede’s renowned Winemaker’s lunch, featuring a simple set menu of either steak or salmon paired with a glass of their exquisite wines.

Set against the backdrop of towering oaks and manicured gardens, Rust en Vrede offers the perfect setting for a delightful afternoon in the Winelands.

Discover the serenity of Rust en Vrede, where history, passion, and exceptional wines converge to create an unforgettable experience.

  Uncover Private Wine Tour with Wine Expert to Stellenbosch-Franschhoek Wine Regions.  

Delaire Graff Estate

Photo credit: Delaire Graff Estate

Escape to Delaire Graff Estate and treat yourself to an unforgettable experience. This exquisite estate combines natural beauty with modern luxury, boasting top-notch lodges and a stunning villa.

The dining options are impeccable, with the estate’s restaurant serving a range of delicious culinary delights. Relax at the luxurious spa, or explore the exclusive boutique offering fashionable clothes, jewelry, and more.

Located in Stellenbosch, one of the world’s greatest wine regions, Delaire Graff Estate’s vineyards were planted by the influential wine critics John and Erica Platter in the 1980s. But it’s not just about the wine – the estate is committed to sustainability, supporting aid projects and programs, and taking meticulous care of the earth and vines.

Experience Private Full-Day Stellenbosch Wine Tour .

As you wander through the property, you’ll be surrounded by spectacular paintings and sculptures , making it a true cultural art haven. The estate is also a botanical paradise , with breathtaking flora to discover.

Indulge in their premium, luxury, and iconic wine ranges, or enjoy tasting options in the chic Wine Lounge. Delaire Graff Restaurant and Indochine, the estate’s restaurants, offer modern bistro dishes and Afro-Asian fusion fine dining, respectively, with alfresco tables on oak-shaded terraces that offer extraordinary views of the Banhoek Valley.

For the ultimate luxury experience, stay at the Delaire Lodges and create lasting memories at Delaire Graff Estate. It’s the perfect retreat for a truly indulgent getaway.

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Lanzerac Wine Estate

Photo credit: Lanzerac Wine Estate

Lanzerac Wine Estate is located in the breathtaking Jonkershoek Valley just outside the historic town of Stellenbosch. This timeless treasure is steeped in three centuries of rich Cape heritage, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers , history buffs, and those seeking a truly indulgent escape.

As you arrive at Lanzerac, you’ll be captivated by the lush gardens, rolling vineyards, and awe-inspiring Jonkershoek mountains that provide a stunning backdrop to this quintessential Winelands landmark.

With elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each exuding its own unique charm, Lanzerac offers luxurious accommodations with modern amenities to ensure a truly comfortable stay.

Start your day with a delectable breakfast in the Manor Kitchen or indulge in gourmet pub grub at the Taphuis beside a roaring fireplace – Lanzerac’s dining options will surely delight even the most discerning palates.

Experience True African Wine Tours in the Cape Winelands.

Of course, wine is the heart and soul of Lanzerac. As the birthplace of the first commercially bottled and sold Pinotage, a renowned South African wine varietal , Lanzerac continues to produce world-class wines today.

With three ranges of wines, including heritage limited releases and the cellar master’s unusual blends, as well as a Pinotage rosé and Cap Classique, guests can enjoy wine tastings in the elegant Tasting Room or on its verandah overlooking the vineyards. Opt for a wine-and-chocolate pairing for a truly indulgent experience and let your taste buds be tantalized.

Lanzerac’s spa is a haven of tranquility for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With state-of-the-art treatment rooms, the spa offers a range of pampering treatments and facilities to nourish your body and soul. Don’t forget to visit the Vitality Corner for wholesome post-treatment juices, salads, and smoothies to refresh and revitalize you.

Beyond the estate, Lanzerac offers easy access to the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve and the Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty with guided walks and bike rides.

For history buffs, a guided walking tour of Stellenbosch, focusing on the culture and architecture of the town, is a must. And as part of your stay, you’ll also enjoy a complimentary wine tasting in The Lanzerac Tasting Room, where you can learn about the estate’s storied past and its role in the history of Pinotage.

With its unrivaled historic charm, sumptuous lodgings, warm service, and tranquil surroundings, Lanzerac Wine Estate is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in the Winelands.

Boschendal Farm Estate

Photo credit: Boschendal Farm Estate

Nestled against the majestic Simonsberg Mountain, the Boschendal estate spans across 1800 hectares of stunning Western Cape landscapes. With a history dating back to the 17th century, this historic wine estate has evolved into a sophisticated agritourism destination , offering a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of Boschendal is its exceptional wine production, which spans nearly 300 years. Renowned for its superb white and red wines and sparkling wine, Boschendal offers wine tastings and tours that take visitors on a journey from grape to bottle.

Guests can witness the winemaking process firsthand before walking through acres of vineyards that produce Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz, indulging in a tasting of the estate’s exquisite vintages.

The estate offers a range of luxurious accommodation options, including charming cottages that allow guests to experience the joys of farm living. Some cottages are within walking distance of the main farm area, while others are scattered throughout the estate, accessible by scenic trails for cycling or walking.

Equipped with kitchens that rival a home’s, the accommodations provide the perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm.

Experience Stellenbosch and Franschhoek 20 Wine Tasting, Lunch & Tasting Fees Shared Tour.

Dining at Boschendal is a true farm-to-fork experience. With much of the produce grown organically on the estate and other ingredients sourced locally, the estate’s restaurants offer menus that change with the seasons, showcasing the freshest flavors of the region.

The Werf Restaurant, housed in the original cellar of the old manor house, is at the heart of the estate and spills out onto a terrace, offering a delightful setting for a memorable meal.

Beyond wine and dining, Boschendal offers various activities for guests to enjoy. Guided farm tours on foot, bike, or horseback allow one to explore the estate’s picturesque landscapes and learn about its sustainable farming practices.

For those seeking adventure, there are mountain biking trails to discover, horse riding excursions to embark on, and even a tented camp for a unique glamping experience.

For a more leisurely outing, guests can arrange a picnic basket and savor the breathtaking views over the Stellenbosch vineyards while enjoying a relaxed outdoor meal. Boschendal is also a haven for children, with its outdoor experience program designed for kids aged five to fourteen.

With its rich history, superb wines, luxury accommodations, farm-to-fork dining, and diverse activities, Boschendal offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.

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Warwick Estate

Photo credit: Warwick Estate

If you’re a wine enthusiast seeking a truly memorable experience, look no further than Warwick Estate, a high-end winery nestled in the breathtaking Stellenbosch region of South Africa.

With a rich farming history from 1771, Warwick Estate has earned a reputation as one of the world’s finest wineries, producing acclaimed wines that have garnered awards and accolades from renowned critics and publications.

In addition to tastings of their award-winning range of wines, the estate offers guests the opportunity to indulge in gourmet picnics and charcuterie platters in a tranquil and relaxed setting.

Picture yourself lounging on the lawns or finding shade under the trees of their forest courtyard, savoring a delicious picnic menu crafted from fresh and seasonal ingredients sourced from local artisanal suppliers. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring visitors enjoy a delightful culinary experience.

Their signature picnic lunches are a summer sensation, allowing you and your loved ones to unwind and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. Each gourmet picnic basket is filled with classic dishes infused with a contemporary African twist, perfectly paired with Warwick’s award-winning wines.

Whether you choose to relax on their beautiful lawns, find shade under the forest oaks, or opt for a private picnic pod, the Warwick Estate picnic experience promises to be unforgettable.

Uncover Private Full-Day Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl Wine Tour from Cape Town.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Warwick Estate offers cellar tours by appointment only. These tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the estate’s rich tapestry of stories and winemaking processes, allowing you to deepen your appreciation for their exceptional wines.

One of the highlights of a visit to Warwick Estate is their wildly popular Vineyard Safari . This fun and educational Land Rover Safari takes you on a mountain journey through the estate’s vineyards, providing a unique perspective on their winemaking practices and breathtaking landscapes.

Warwick Estate is a winery with a rich history and a trailblazer in sustainability and environmental initiatives, earning Stellenbosch the title of “Green Wine Capital of the World.”

When you visit Warwick Estate, you can be assured that you’re supporting a winery that cares about the environment and is committed to responsible winemaking practices.

Find More About All Inclusive Cape Town Wine Tour & Tasting.  

Spier Wine Farm

Photo credit: Spier Hotel and Wine Farm

Located along the picturesque Eerste River, Spier Estate is a magnificent four-star retreat conveniently located near the charming town of Stellenbosch and just a short drive from Cape Town International Airport.

Spier Hotel offers leisure and business travelers a serene escape with its luxurious rooms and modern amenities. The Spier Spa, located at the hotel, provides a range of rejuvenating treatments to help guests relax and unwind during their stay.

Dining at Spier Estate is a culinary delight, with the hotel’s rich restaurant offering a delectable selection of local and international cuisine. Guests can savor the region’s flavors while enjoying the restaurant’s elegant ambiance. Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery is renowned for its farm-to-plate dining and reputation as one of the best bakeries in Stellenbosch.

The Spier Hotel Restaurant offers contemporary country dining, with a wine bar , loungers, and a large outdoor terrace where guests can dine while enjoying the views of the sprawling lawn. At the Farm Café, guests can grab delicious ready-to-eat favorites or build their own picnic to enjoy in the outdoor spaces of the farm, taking in the picturesque surroundings.

The hotel is located just 10 minutes from the center of Stellenbosch and represents one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms, with a history dating back to 1692. Spier is renowned for its award-winning wines.

Guests can indulge in wine tastings and pairings at the hotel’s airy Tasting Room, which features an iconic Heath Nash chandelier made from recycled Spier wine bottles.

Families can enjoy the Spier Elemental Play Garden, designed with indigenous plants and divided into quadrants representing the four elements: water, air, fire, and earth. In conclusion, Spier Hotel is a luxurious retreat that offers a serene escape in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands.

  Check Prices on  Booking.com ↗               Compare prices on  Agoda.com ↗                 Check Best Deals on  Expidia.com ↗  

Best Time to Visit Stellenbosch

The best time to visit Stellenbosch wineries is during the harvest season, from January to March. Visitors can witness the grape-picking process and see winemaking in action. However, the region is beautiful year-round and can be visited anytime.

Discover Cape Winelands Guided Private Full-Day Tour from Cape Town.  

What is Stellenbosch famous for?

Nestled within the Cape Winelands of South Africa, the picturesque town of Stellenbosch has captured the hearts of travelers and locals alike with its rich heritage, world-renowned vineyards, and undeniable charm.

Just a short drive from Cape Town, this delightful destination has earned its place on the global map for a myriad of reasons. From its historic streets lined with centuries-old oak trees to its award-winning wines and captivating landscapes, Stellenbosch stands as a captivating tapestry of culture, nature, and flavors.

• A historical tapestry: Stepping into Stellenbosch is akin to journeying through time. Founded in 1679, the town is the second-oldest settlement in South Africa and exudes a captivating charm with its well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture. Stroll along Dorp Street, the oldest residential street in the country, and be transported to the colonial era, where gabled buildings and white-washed facades evoke a sense of nostalgia. The Stellenbosch University, established in 1866, adds an air of vibrancy to the town with its lively student community and diverse cultural events.
• The wine capital of South Africa: Stellenbosch boasts a viticultural heritage dating back more than three centuries, earning it the well-deserved title of the “Wine Capital of South Africa.” The region’s unique terroir and Mediterranean climate create the perfect conditions for cultivating some of the world’s finest grapes. From boutique wineries to well-established estates, Stellenbosch is a wine lover’s paradise. Touring the vineyards, sampling award-winning wines, and learning about the winemaking process from passionate vintners is an experience that lingers long after the last sip.
• Academic excellence: Beyond its charming facade and wine culture, Stellenbosch is also known for its academic excellence. Stellenbosch University, one of the country’s top tertiary institutions, attracts students from all corners of the globe. The campus exudes a lively and intellectual atmosphere, making it a hub of innovation and cultural exchange.
• Gastronomic delights: Stellenbosch is not just about wine; it’s also a culinary haven. The town’s thriving food scene boasts an array of restaurants, cafes, and farm-to-table eateries. Sample traditional South African dishes, indulge in international cuisines, or relish gourmet meals perfectly paired with local wines. The fusion of flavors and the passion for fresh, locally sourced ingredients make every dining experience in Stellenbosch a treat.
• Natural beauty: Surrounded by the majestic Jonkershoek and Simonsberg mountains, Stellenbosch is an idyllic destination for nature enthusiasts. The Jonkershoek Nature Reserve offers breathtaking hiking and mountain biking trails, where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of indigenous flora and fauna. For a more relaxed experience, meander through the stunning gardens of the historic Vergelegen Estate or have a tranquil picnic by the Eerste River.

Indulge in the picturesque Stellenbosch wine region, a sought-after destination for wine aficionados and travelers alike. Adorned with historic architecture, the idyllic countryside sets the perfect backdrop for savoring exceptional wines.

Delight in the unique wine-tasting experiences offered by Stellenbosch wineries, from exploring the rich history of renowned estates to discovering sustainable practices. With many activities, a visit to Stellenbosch promises an unforgettable adventure, whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to sip and savor in style.

* Please note that some links are set up through affiliate programs, meaning Wine travel gets referral credits if you purchase these items via our links at no additional cost to you. 

Amanda Merini

Greetings, wine & travel enthusiasts! Allow me to introduce myself. I am a lover of life's finer things - an avid appreciator of the intricacies and subtleties of wine, a curious explorer of exotic cuisines, and an adventurer at heart. As a natural storyteller, I take pleasure in sharing the knowledge and experiences gained from my travels around the world. So, sit back, relax, and let my words take you on a journey to exciting new destinations!

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Africa , BLOG , CAPE WINELANDS , Destinations , Food Guides , South Africa · February 26, 2022

The 7 Best Wine Farms In Stellenbosch You Can’t Miss!

Are you looking for the best wine farms and wine tastings in Stellenbosch? No need to look further cause this extensive article covers all of the best wine estates in the Cape Winelands .

When planning your trip to Cape Town you should definitely include a day or two for wine tasting in Stellenbosch! The winelands are only 1 hour driving from Cape Town and are the perfect place to relax and unwind.

There are so many wine farms in Stellenbosch that it can be hard to figure out which ones are definitely worth a visit. Well that’s where I come in. During our stay in South Africa we spent 4 days exploring the Cape Winelands and had an absolutely incredible time doing so.

The Best Wine Farms In Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is the centre of wine tourism in South Africa. Wines from the Stellenbosch region are known internationally and rank among the best in the world.

Stellenbosch is the name of the local municipality in South Africa which consist of 10 main areas: Franschhoek, Jamestown, Kayamandi, Klapmuts, Kylemore, Languedoc, Pniel, Robertsvlei, Stellenbosch and Wemmershoek.

The town of Stellenbosch is also the main capital of the local municipality of Stellenbosch.

The Cape Winelands is a stunning region made up of three main wine-areas : Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl.  These valleys produce some of the world’s finest wines, and Stellenbosch continually dominates the South African wine scene in terms of quality.

A little history about Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch was founded in in 1679 and was named after Governor Simon van der Stel . It’s the second oldest settlement in South Africa after Cape Town. Simon was a wine enthusiast and experienced in Viticulture and after a few trips to this region he saw its huge potential in agriculture. Especially the close proximity to the Eerste River was a huge advantage.

After the region was named after him the town of Stellenbosch soon began attracting settlers who took advantage of the almost perfect fertile valley in which to grow grapes.

The Dutch were skilled in hydraulic engineering , and they devised a system of furrows to direct the water from the Eerste River through the town to where a mill was erected.

After its discovery, Stellenbosch was identified as an area in which to settle, with great potential for agriculture .  The surrounding areas proved rich in soil and the correct climate for producing vegetables to sustain the ships passing by the Cape of Good Hope en-route to the other Dutch colonies in the East.

Why you should visit Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges and nature reserves which offer magnificent views throughout the year.

Stellenbosch is one of the most famous towns in entire South Africa for its picturesque charm, intriguing history, stunning architecture, oldest university and of course the magnificent vineyards. It became the first wine region in South Africa to establish a wine route as an organized wineries network. The tourists can experience the vine’s product and tune into the soul of the regions Winelands. 

The wine route consists of a network of more than 150 wineries – each offering a unique cellar-door experience for the wine-lover and tourist. The Stellenbosch wine route is part of the six most popular tourist attractions in South Africa and is also connected to the global Great Wine Capitals Network.

But Stellenbosch is also a university town , so despite its heritage it retains a youthful vibe. Surrounded by wine farms, the town is abuzz with hotels, wine shops, cafés, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and museums.

The streets are also lined with some of the most beautiful surviving examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian Architecture in the Cape. Dorp Street is a National Monument and taking the time to walk around this old part of Stellenbosch is an idyllic morning venture.

Stellenbosch hosts South Africa’s, oldest Music School, the famous Stellenbosch Conservatoire and there is a collection of Galleries and Museums housing National and International art collections worth viewing.

For the nature lover there are a number of excellent hikes in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve .

The best time to visit the wine farms in Stellenbosch

The best time to go wine tasting in Stellenbosch is between September and March . During this time of the year the temperatures are warm and the weather is dry. Another big advantage is that during these months a lot of vintage wines get released .

If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Stellenbosch, the hottest months are January, February, and then December .

The busiest month for tourism in Stellenbosch, South Africa is January, followed by February and November. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Stellenbosch in June . Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month .

How to reach Stellenbosch

🚗 By Car – The Winelands are only 30 to 40 minutes driving from Cape Town if you use the N1 and N2 route.

🚂 By Train – Metrorail frequently operates between Cape Town and Stellenbosch, plying through the Bellville area. The nearest metro station lies on Adam Tas Road, about 1.5 km away from Stellenbosch’s central square. These trains provide a quick and inexpensive means to get to the heart of Stellenbosch. Peak travel times have more trains plying through this route to offer faster access to the city.

🚌 By Bus – Some of the significant bus transportation providers that operate within the town include Greyhound, Translux, Elweirda, and Intercape. The nearest city of Cape Town offers several bus routes and local cab drives to reach Stellenbosch in short time.

The best wine farms to go wine tasting in Stellenbosch

1. haute cabrière – a stunning wine estate in franschhoek.

Perched on top of a hill, the view over the Franschhoek valley from their wine tasting terrace is one of a kind.

Haute Cabrière was established in the Franschhoek Valley in 1694 by French Huguenot, Pierre Jourdan.

These days it’s a family led winery with a passion for crafting memories to share together through quality wines. Burgundian and Champagne varietals are explored by the von Arnim family through pioneering blends and single-varietal wines, generation after generation.

Since their first vintage, Haute Cabrière has specialized in the exploration of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.

Visitors can look forward to seeing Pierre Jourdan sparkling wine being opened with a sabre, and panoramic views of Franschhoek from the tasting room and restaurant. You can also make dinner reservations and enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace while watching the sunset before you go inside for dinner.  

Price – They offer several packages ranging from R50 to R200 (€2.5 to €11) and I highly recommend trying their Belle Rose Cap Classique for sure.

Opening hours – Monday to Saturday from 10am until 6pm and Sunday from 11am until 4pm.

Do you need a reservation?

I visited during high season and didn’t have to make a reservation from before. The place was buzzing with people but everyone that arrived was seated. They work on a first come, first served principle but if you want to try the Haute Collection you need to book in advance.

2. Waterford Wine Estate – A wine estate in Stellenbosch so good, we visited it twice

Waterford Estate is situated in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley , in the world-renowned Stellenbosch region. Waterford Estate is owned by the Ord Family and developed under the watchful eye of Kevin Arnold, Cellar Master and Managing Partner, since 1998 .

The Waterford Estate winery offers a relaxing setting where guests can sit and enjoy various tasting options. With the wine cellar built surrounding the courtyard, guests can observe the workings of the winery, and get a true feel for the wine making process without disrupting the tranquility of their tasting experience.

In addition to their cellar door experiences, they also offer two vineyard experiences, the Wine Drive Safari and Porcupine Trail Walk

It’s the best winery to visit for a pairing of wine and chocolate! With their Wine & Chocolate Experience you will get to try 3 different wines, all combined with a piece of either dark or milk chocolate. My personal favorites are the combination of the Cabernet Sauvignon together with the dark chocolate with rock salt and their desert wine “Heatherleigh” combined with a splendid milk chocolate.

Price – The Wine and Chocolate Tasting is R95 (€5.5) per person. Another option is to go for the Waterford Estate Experience where you’ll taste a selection of Waterford Wines, completed with the Wine and Chocolate Experience for R125 (€7).

Opening hours – Monday to Sunday from 10am until 5pm

Do you need to make a reservation?

We didn’t make a reservation for our two visits but if you want to be sure you can make a reservation online .

💡 TIP – You can purchase their chocolates and wine at the estate and they’ll be shipped to your home address.

3. Boschendal Farm Estate – One of the best wine farms in Franschhoek

Boschendal Wine Farm might be one of the Western Cape’s oldest wine farms , but there’s plenty of new and exciting things happening here!

This magnificent wine farm has a ton of fun activities to offer and you can easily spend half a day here. Go on a farm tour or go for a horse ride. But if you want to experience one of these activities it’s necessary to make a reservation. Another favorite? You can enjoy a picnic on the grass around a beautiful pond.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience I highly recommend staying at Boschendal for at least 1 night. got a great selection of luxury wine farm accommodation, ranging from the historical Herbert Baker-designed Cottage 1685, to beautifully restored farm cottages in the Orchards.

For €318 you can already stay at one of their cottages with a mountain view! Click here to check for availability and current rates.

Price – It’s €15 for a Manor House wine tasting. This includes 5 wines that you may choose yourself from a certain selection. This is a very good option if you prefer to stick to either red of white wine.  

Opening hours – Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays  from 10am until 5pm (last easting at 4pm).

For the regular wine tasting, as mentioned above, it isn’t necessary to make a prior reservation. They do offer special food & wine pairings, which are only served at specific days and times and that most certainly requires a reservation. Think of an Angus beef & Shiraz pairing or a MCC (bubbles) & oyster tasting.  

4. Tokara – A boutique wine farm in Stellenbosch

The exceptional wine estate Tokara lies on the Simonsberg mountain and is home to the most beautiful vineyards since the 17th century. It offers unrivaled views over False Bay to Table Mountain and is the perfect place to go for a wine tasting in the Cape Winelands.

From the moment you arrive at Tokara, you will be reminded that “making good wine is a skill, but making great wine is an art”. You can either stay inside or enjoy your wine tasting outside on the terrace overlooking the mountains.

At Tokara they focus on two of the greatest grape varieties in the world, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon blanc.

Price – €8 for a regular wine tasting.

Opening hours – Their tasting lounge is open Monday to Sunday from 10am until I 6pm. The last tasting starts at 5.30pm.

No, I went during high season and there was even a group of 30 people present and we were still seated right away. The time in between wine servings was pretty long but the views more than made up for that.

5. Middelvlei Wine Estate

Middelvlei Estate is known for its hospitality and special farm atmosphere. It’s a very family friendly place and offers a personal, unforgettable and authentic Stellenbosch Winelands experience for the whole family.

The brothers Tinnie and Ben Momberg are continuing the family’s legacy of winemaking that has lasted for over 100 years . Middelvlei’s wines have won numerous prestigious awards throughout the years

But what they are most famous for is their Boerebraai Restaurant where they serve a daily South African braai for lunch. Ben’s homemade pâté and Ouma Annie’s pumpkin fritters have placed the Middelvlei Braai in a league of its own.

The wine tasting centre , a charming building that was once the horse stable for the estate, is open for wine tasting and sales from Monday to Sunday.

Price – The Middelvlei Braai costs R265 (€15.5) per person. There are also Low carb and vegetarian options available. If you’re only interested in their wine tasting you’ll pay R60 (€3.5) per person for 4 wines.

Opening hours – Monday to Sunday from 10am until 4.30pm for wine tasting. If you want to enjoy the Middelvlei Braai you can do so on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm until 3pm.

Yes, you definitely need to book in advance. You can do so by sending an email to [email protected] .

6. Babylonstoren

Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, set at the foot of Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley. And if you only have time to visit one wine farm on this list then let it be this one !

Babylonstoren has it all! From its picture perfect setting and scenery, every aspect and detail about Babylonstoren evokes a sense of tranquility and wellbeing.

There’s the contemporary Farm Hotel & Spa, the Farm Shop and several Restaurants and all of this is led by the ever-changing tapestry and botanical diversity of the garden.

💡 TIP – For a truly unique experience I highly recommend that you spend at least 1 night at Babylonstoren . They have several lodging accommodations ranging from a hotel, farmhouse, garden cottages and family houses. Click here to check for current rates and availability .

Price – It completely depends if you wish to book an activity or a tour at Babylonstoren. For visiting the gardens at Babylonstoren you’ll need to pay a small entrance fee of R20 (€1) at the ticket office.

Opening hours – The gardens at Babylonstoren are open daily from 9am until 5pm.

Do you need to make a reservation from before?

If you’re only planning on roaming the gardens you don’t need to make a reservation from before. If you want to eat at one of their restaurants or take part in one of their workshops you do need to book in advance.

FOR MORE DETAILS AND PHOTOS MAKE SURE TO READ MY FULL GUIDE ON MY EXPERIENCE AT BABYLONSTOREN.

7. Chamonix Wine Farm

Chamonix offers visitors a seamless blend of unspoiled nature, welcoming hospitality, exquisite facilities and a host of culinary and viticultural delights, set amongst a working wine farm with a history stretching back nearly 350 years.

Since being acquired by German-born entrepreneur and adventurer Chris Hellinger two decades ago, the estate has undergone tremendous improvements, and offers visitors a host of culinary and recreational options in spectacular surroundings.

From the secluded Forest Lodge overlooking scenic Franschhoek Valley to the renowned Arkeste restaurant, from our diverse facilities to the wide array of fine wines, spirits and other delights on offer, everything we do at Chamonix is done with love, passion and an unwavering attention to detail.

Their wine tasting is held at their “ Blacksmith’s Cottage “, built in the late 18th Century and converted into a comfortable tasting venue.

Price – Wine tastings range from R70 (€4) to R225 (€13)

Opening hours – Monday to Sunday from 10am until 5pm.

Yes, booking is essential if you wish to sample some wines at Chamonix.

The best wine tours in Stellenbosch

Capetown Winelands: Shared Half-Day Tour with Local Guide

Price – €54

You will enjoy two wine tastings, a wine and cheese tasting and a cellar tour at Stellenbosch Wine Estate. 

Cape Town/Stellenbosch: 5-Day Garden Route Tour & Addo Park

Price – €510

Discover South African wildlife in some of the country’s best national parks, traveling along the Garden Route. and go wine tasting along route 62

From Cape Town: Winelands Full Day Tour and Wine Tasting

Price – €72

Witness the wine making process from the vineyard to the bottle and visit the historical towns of Stellenbosch, Franschoek and Paarl.

From Stellenbosch: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour Southern Route

Price – €21

Enjoy a hop-on hop-off wine bus tour highlighting differences between the various estates in Stellenbosch. You can decide which of the farms you want to visit and how long you want to stay.

Full-Day Chocolate, Cheese, Olive and Wine Tour from Stellenbosch

Price – €114

Make multiple stops throughout the region at some of the most well-regarded wine estates, enjoying tasting notes and different chocolate, cheese, wine, and olive combination tastings.

Charlotte Lint is the founder, main photographer and writer of Charlies Wanderings . She has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing insightful hiking guides and creating unique and efficient travel itineraries . Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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African Story Wine Tours

Our fun-filled and informative Cape Town Wine Tours visit some of South Africa’s premier wine estates in what is known to be one of the most beautiful regions of the world. In addition to the variety of superb wines and breathtaking scenery, this full day tour of Stellenbosch , Franschhoek and Paarl , also tantalize the taste buds with local delicacies including a cheese and wine tasting and a delicious a-la-carte lunch. You may also find other seasonal treats along the way such as chocolate or olives with some wine, it’s all part of the adventure.

THE UNPRETENTIOUS WINE ENTHUSIAST

So you’d like to learn more about wine, but don’t want to sit in a stuffy tasting room being preached at by ‘Mr-Know-it-all’?  Then this is the tour for you! We will show you how to make wine and at the same time how to appreciate wine, you will learn and explore while having a good laugh with a great winelands guide on a well-planned trip, and we won’t make you spit!

Bruce Storey is the Unpretentious Wine Enthusiast and has been a professional tour guide for many years. He has a reputation for literally going the extra mile in making sure his guests have an amazing adventure in wine. His philosophy is supported by his knowledgeable guides who are all just as committed to ensuring you enjoy your day.

“At African Story Wine Tours we offer an entertaining, friendly and most of all, memorable day in and around Cape Town’s beautiful winelands; it is all about tasting, enjoying, relaxing and exploring, whether you want to learn about wine or kick back and have some fun.”

STELLENBOSCH | WINE TOURS

Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa (1679), was featured in the New York Times as one of the” must see” wine routes of the world. Not only is it the most established, it is also the wine region with the most wine farms in South Africa, with more than 200 wineries. Grapes are not all that is grown here, many future wine makers are studying at the “University of Stellenbosch” or “Elsenburg College” making it quite the student town.

Named after the governor Simon van der Stel, the region has the perfect terroir for grape varieties such as cabernet sauvignon, Shiraz and merlot. Pinotage, the South African clone of pinot noir and hermitage was born here and this region continues to produce world winners in many varietals of wine.

The tour of Stellenbosch is important as it is the second oldest town in South Africa.

FRANSCHHOEK | WINE TOURS

Franschhoek is known as the culinary capital of the Cape and is ringed by the majestic Groot Drakenstein Mountains making it the most beautiful of towns.  It was originally known as Oshoek by the Dutch (1687) when herds of elephants used to roam the valley.

When joined by the French Huguenots in 1688, fleeing religious persecution, the name Franschhoek (French corner) was derived. The elephants, long gone, now add to Franschhoeks rich and often sad history of slavery and apartheid, with many fascinating stories.

One of the oldest Voignier traditions dating back to the 16th century originated in this area and Grand old Cape Dutch farmhouses and wine stores have proudly watched over the land for centuries on farms that produce some of our countries top wines today. The tour of Franschhoek wine region is absolutely stunning, it is just naturally beautiful.

PAARL | WINE TOURS

Paarl is the third oldest town (1657) in South Africa; it was named after a giant granite rock that seen glistening in the sun after some rainfall was named “Diamond and Pearl” mountain, from which the name Paarl was derived.

The Mediterranean-like climate of this region and fertile soil is perfect for the vine, giving it ideal conditions in which to produce some of the best red wines in the world and Paarl is particularly well known for its Shiraz.

Experience wine as you have never before:

• We will taste many varietals of wines (white / red/ rose), blends, cape ports (fortified wine), brandy, method cap Classique and dessert wines etc. . (Subject to availability)
• We will compare new wines with older ones, so you can taste the difference.
• We will taste heavy wooded as well as the light wooded wines.
• We will try to get to know South African wines.
• We will give ideas on how to enjoy your wines more like food and wine pairing, right temperature, glasses etc
• We will try, taste and enjoy it all!

THE CELLAR TOUR

For a unique perspective on wine, experience the wine-making process from the wine cellar:

• We will explore the history of South African wine.
• We will look at different wine making styles.
• We will talk about viticulture and vinification.
• We will demonstrate the wine making process (oenology).
• We will explain the making of cape Port, Method Cap Classique / sparkling wine (Champagne), brandy etc.

THE TASTING ROOM

This is where the action happens:

• We will taste many South African wines, port styles, MCC’s (Champagne).
• We will learn more about how to taste and drink wines.
• We will talk about food and wine pairing and the influence of flavours.
• We will cover wine and health.
• We will identify whether and how to store wine
• We will cover a wide variety of wines and wine derivatives.
• Spitting is entirely optional!

THE VINEYARDS

The Story of Wine takes you on a journey of wine that covers the three most important wine regions in the Western Cape: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl.

On our wine farm tour we visit four of the best vineyards each day, which may vary depending on the day of the week, or time of year.

Fairview is included most days and the emphasis is on spending time at the farms and not in the vehicle.

We are proud to support farms that are not only producing award winning wine, but are also pesticide free, environment friendly, carbon neutral, animal friendly, have education trusts, have staff programs, social programs or empowerment deals. Ask us about the projects you might be interested in. 

Tasting wine can be hungry business and a delicious a la carte lunch is included in your tour to help further the day, giving you pause to refuel and recharge, ready for the last leg of our wine-inspired wandering.

We visit  a awesome restaurant to make the most of the beautiful setting, and over a glass of wine ( There’s also soda or juice) you will have a choice of menu that caters for all tastes, including vegetarians and those with special dietary requirements.

You might like to tuck in to a tasty Malay curry, awesome fish or burger, but why not try one of the traditional South African dishes such as bobotie. Salads are available for those who are watching the figure. For the vegetarians we have great menu for you to like Vegetable lasagna etc. (The menu may change from time to time)

Don’t forget that in addition to lunch we will also taste lots of goats and cow cheeses, from the creamy, spicy and fruity to the stronger blue cheeses, and depending on the day, often we have chocolate and olives  and other culinary treats with wine.

Prove its your birthday and I have a special gift for you!

TOURS & PRICING

The tours & pricing.

Scheduled Tour – R1500 per person Private Tour – Please enquire for pricing

The Story of Wine Tour of the winelands operates most days (including Sundays), departing  between 08h30  and 09h00 and returning at approximately 17h30. We take bookings for as many people as you like whether you are a single traveller or part of a group.

The cost is R1500pp and includes all wine tastings, cheese tastings, a fabulous a la carte lunch, a cellar tour, and of course your entertaining wine guide.  It also includes collection from anywhere in Cape Town city central, or nearby, and shuttles can be arranged for longer distances.

* Pricing is subject to change on a yearly basis, Seasonal rates apply.

• Customised private tours
• Corporate tours
• Team building adventures
• Winetours with a difference

CONTACT DETAILS

To find out more, please fill out our enquiry form, or alternatively, you can give us a call or send us an email.

Contact numbers: +27 (0) 73 755 0444 or +27(0) 79 694 7915 Email: [email protected] Physical Address: Son Vida Flats, 79 Somerset Road, Greenpoint

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The perfect way to spend time in the Stellenbosch Winelands

Visit our tasting room where guests can relax under our oak trees in summer or in front of the fireplace in winter and taste through our wonderful range of wines. Simonsig is still the perfect place to spend time in the Stellenbosch Winelands.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Wine Order Collections at Simonsig Wine Estate

Monday – Sunday (Including Public Holidays): 10h00 – 17h00

Trading Hours for 24 th & 31 st December 2023 will be from 10:00 – 15:00. Please note that the Tasting Room will be closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day & New Years Day.

Call us on 021 888 4915 or email us [email protected]

Wine Tasting

Monday – Sunday (Including Public Holidays): 10h00 – 17h00 Trading Hours for 24 th & 31 st December 2023 will be from 10:00 – 15:00. Please note that the Tasting Room will be closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day & New Years Day.

Last seating will be 30 minutes prior to closing time. Bookings recommended for groups of 8 guest and more.

Tasting options:

Taste through a selection of Cap Classique, White and Red Wines, and experience a little bit of everything.

Sparkle with Simonsig

South Africa’s first Cap Classique producer offers you an opportunity to enjoy a selection of exquisite Cap Classique – from Blanc de Blancs to Demi-Sec.

Meet the Family

The best way to experience single varietals and discover each cultivar’s specific characteristics.

The Blue Bloods

Feel like royalty as you experience and taste through a selection of our premium Malan Family Selection wines, including the Cuvée Royale.

Sugar, Spice & Everything Nice

A special selection of wines for those who prefer the sweeter side of life.

Pick of the Pinotage

The first red wine released by Frans Malan was a Pinotage in 1970. This tasting is a testament to how we have grown and mastered this characterful cultivar with four different expressions.

Salami Rustico, Smoked Beef and Coppa Ham with ciabatta bread, olives, preserves, hummus, seasonal fruit and crackers

Artisanal Cheese Platter

Colby, Camembert, and Smoked or Chilli Cheddar with ciabatta bread, olives, preserves, hummus, seasonal fruit, and crackers

Ploughman's Platter

Camembert, Smoked Cheddar or Colby, Salami Rustico and Smoked Beef with accompaniments from both the above platters

Soft Drinks

Bottled water - still or sparkling, tea / coffee, cellar tour.

Experience the magic of Cap Classique first-hand. Includes Cap Classique tasting. Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours. Bookings essential. Mon – Fri:  between 10am and 3pm.  Sat & Sun: 10am only. 

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Wine Travelista

Wine Destinations · March 21, 2024

10 Best Stellenbosch Wineries in South Africa (2024)

When it comes to the ultimate wine country trip, South Africa and its Stellenbosch wineries always top my list.

Not only do they offer incredible wines that are an excellent bang for your buck, but the region itself is simply stunning. And let’s not forget about the mouthwatering food!

But with more than 150 wineries in Stellenbosch to choose from, it can be hard to narrow your list down. That’s where I come in.

As a certified wine expert, I’ve personally explored the region and hand-picked the cream of the crop. This curated list includes my absolute favorite Stellenbosch wine farms. And I’ve put together all the details to plan your visit. So let’s get started!

The 10 Best Stellenbosch Wineries

While there are many great options in this wine region, these are some of the best wineries in Stellenbosch for exceptional wines, beautiful views, and wonderful hospitality.

1. Rust en Vrede

The Governor of Cape Town, one of the original South African winemakers, granted the land for the Rust en Vrede property all the way back in 1694. And the current owners, the Engelbrecht family, acquired it in 1977.

Jannie and Ellen Engelbrecht first tackled restoring the beautiful Cape Dutch buildings on the property to their former glory. And then produced their first vintage of wine in 1978.

The vineyards are planted on the warmer north-facing slopes, ideal conditions for making some of South Africa’s best red wines.

In fact, Nelson Mandela selected Rust en Vrede wines to be served at the Nobel Peace Prize dinner. Not to mention, they had the first South African red wine named to Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines in the World.

Wines to Try

Their Cabernet Sauvignons are stunning, with concentrated blackcurrant flavors balanced with fresh acidity. I also love their soft and elegant style Syrahs. And don’t miss trying their Estate blend for a Bordeaux-style wine with a Syrah twist.

Enjoy a wine tasting on their picturesque terrace, overlooking the lush lawn. Then ask the tasting room staff for an informal tour to get a peek at the underground wine cellar.

And if you’re a foodie, don’t miss their award-winning restaurant. Named one of San Pellegrino’s Top 100 Restaurants in the World, they serve up contemporary French cuisine with inspiration from the chef’s Brazilian and Italian heritage.

Make it a stop for lunch with a glass of wine. Or splurge for the 6-course dinner with wine pairings. Just be sure to make a reservation well in advance.

2. Warwick Estate

Norma Ratliffe is credited with being the first female winemaker to operate commercially in South Africa. She, along with her husband Stan, bought the land for Warwick Wine Estate in 1964.

It took about 20 years to release their first wine, a Cabernet Sauvignon named La Femme Bleau. Not long after, they bottled South Africa’s first-ever Cape Blend, whose claim to fame is a cameo in a James Bond film.

Today, Warwick makes blends and single-varietal wines, many with their signature “lady” names.

Fun fact: The Wedding Cup symbol on their label comes from the legend of Princess Kunigunde. Her father disapproved of her love for a young goldsmith. He challenged the goldsmith to make a cup that two people could drink from at the same time.

The goldsmith’s love of the princess was so great that he succeeded in this seemingly impossible task within a matter of days. The two were able to marry and live happily ever after (or at least enjoy drinking wine together out of their new fancy cup).

Don’t miss the Three Cape Ladies, a Pinotage-based Cape Blend. And the award-winning Trilogy blend, with spicy peppery notes from Cabernet Franc. I also loved their crisp Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

Warwick is the perfect place for a winery picnic. The lawn is dappled with blankets and oversized pillows that you can recline on like royalty. Enjoy a gourmet picnic box with a bottle of wine. Or book the Harvest Table for a 4-course meal in their majestic forest courtyard.

For those seeking adventure, see if you can spot the “big five” on a wine safari. No, we’re not talking about lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos. These are the big five grapes! Hop on an open-top safari vehicle to tour Warwick vineyards and learn all about grape growing from your “safari guide.”

3. Simonsig Wine Estate

For you bubbly lovers, Méthode Cap Classique is South Arica’s answer to Champagne. And Simonsig Wine Estate is home to the original version. Frans Malan, the founder, produced the first bottle in South Africa.

These wines are made in the traditional method used for Champagne . This is when a secondary fermentation happens in the bottle. This gives the wine those delicious notes of toast and brioche.

Simonsig makes a range of these sparklers, from dry (Brut) to sweet (Demi-Sec). Plus, rosé and a Blanc de Blanc (meaning a white wine made from white grapes).

Their sparkling wines are delicious. And Simonsig also makes excellent still wines. You can try reds from Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, and Syrah. Or whites from Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and even Gewürztraminer.

Walk-ins are welcome, but I recommend making a reservation on weekends or for larger groups. Grab one of their artisanal cheese and charcuterie platters to accompany your tasting.

While there, you may even get to witness a Sabrage demonstration. This technique is used to open a bottle of sparkling wine with a saber (yes, like a sword!). You slide the blunt side of it up the neck of the bottle and, with enough force, it will break the top of the neck off.

4. Delheim Wine Estate

The original vineyards of Delheim Wine Estate were planted in the 1940s. Michael Sperling, known as “Spatz” to those in the know, took over the winery in the late 1950s.

Spatz taught himself winemaking, began winning awards, and became a major player in South African wine. In 1971, he got together with Frans Malan of Simonsig and Neil Joubert of Spier Wine Farm and created the Stellenbosch wine route, the first in South Africa.

You’ll find some unique wines here, like the Spatzendreck dessert wine made from white grapes left on the vine to dry out (a technique called passerillage). This concentrates the sugars and, after barrel aging, results in luscious flavors of dried fruits, honey, and toasted almonds.

If you’re a rosé lover, try the Pinotage Rosé, the first of its kind when it was released in 1976. And I personally loved their Grand Reserve, a smooth Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

A tasting on their garden patio is lovely, with a beautiful view of Table Mountain. But for some real character, I recommend heading to the downstairs cellar. The old-bottle-lined walls and cobweb-filled windows give it an authentic feel you won’t see elsewhere.

While you’re there, you can enjoy dishes like Springbok carpaccio, lamb shank, and bacon benedict at their on-site restaurant. And for those with a sweet tooth, try the cupcake and dessert wine pairing!

5. Thelema Mountain Vineyards

From working as an accountant to selling out wines within a month of release in just a decade, Gyles Webb is the Cinderella story of Stellenbosch.

After falling in love with Burgundy, Gyles and family founded Thelema in 1983. The first wines were released in 1988. And they became so successful that they bought a second vineyard in 2002, which is bottled under the Sutherland label.

Thelema wines are warmer-climate varieties grown in Stellenbosch. Sutherland wines are a cool-climate style with grapes grown in Elgin Valley, a high-altitude plateau cooled by ocean breezes.

A comparative tasting of the Thelema and Sutherland wines is a great way to see how climate and terroir impacts the style of wine.

I love Thelema’s bold and complex Cabernet Sauvignons. They’re one of my regular purchases back home since visiting. But if you’re more of a Burgundy lover, the Sutherland Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are excellent too.

Reservations are recommended for tastings at their beautiful estate. You’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain views. And if you take any bottles with you, your tasting is on the house.

6. Beyerskloof

If you’re a fan of Pinotage, Beyerskloof is the place for you. Founded in 1988 by Beyers Truter, this Stellenbosch wine farm won best Pinotage at the 2018 International Wine & Spirits Competition.

They use bush vines and strive for smaller berries. This makes the wines more concentrated and complex.

Beyers’ son Anri currently runs Beyerskloof and focuses almost exclusively on Pinotage and Pinotage blends.

The Pinotage is of course where it’s at here. I love their traditional red style. But they also produce it as a nice dry rosé. And even as a white wine blended with Chenin Blanc.

Wine tasting flights include options for a mix of five white, rosé, and red wines, or all red wines. Or you can book a private tasting of their premium wines and older vintages in the Winemaker’s Cellar.

And if you’re hungry, check out the Red Leaf Bistro where you can dine while overlooking the vines. Don’t miss their specialty — the Pinotage burger with an onion reduction made with…you guessed it, Pinotage.

If you don’t make it to their winery, Beyerskloof also has a wine bar (called Wynbar) in downtown Stellenbosch where you can sample their wines and snack on some sliders and “sarmies.”

For a modern, yet family-friendly winery option, check out Tokara . The name comes from a combination of the founders’ children’s names, Thomas and Kara.

And if great wines, delicious olive oil, a farm-to-table restaurant, and an art gallery weren’t enough, they also have an outdoor play area for the little ones.

Tokara is perched on the side of a hill, with sweeping views of the surrounding vineyard-lined slopes. The first vines were planted in the mid-90s on the upper slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain. These sit next to their olive groves, from which they produce olive oil that rivals the ones I tasted at Crete wineries .

Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc are the speciality here. But you’ll also find Chardonnay, Syrah, and Semillon. These are made as both blends from different sites and as single vineyard wines.

And if your a fan of spirits, check out their Chenin Blanc-based brandy. Plus, they make a delicious dessert wine from nobly rotted Sauvignon Blanc grapes.

Book ahead to sample Tokara’s wines and olive oil. Enjoy a cheese platter with your tasting or grab a bite from the delicatessen. Afterward, you can stroll through the art gallery and sculpture park to walk off all that food.

For a special treat, make a dinner reservation, which includes a four or six-course chef’s menu with wine pairings.

8. Neethlingshof Estate

Vines have been grown on the Neethlingshof vineyards since the late 1600s. It’s changed hands a few times since then, but today the Schreiber Family owns it. And they produce a variety of different vegan-friendly estate-grown wines.

Tasting options include samples from their Estate Range of nearly a dozen white and red single-variety wines. I also recommend tasting the Short Story Collection, with each wine representing a different tale from Neethlingshof’s history. They also offer fun food experiences like chocolate pairing.

If you’re looking for a good lunch spot, Neethlingshof has a deli and a wine garden with a selection of pizzas and platters. And you can enjoy live music on Wednesday evenings.

9. Meerlust Estate

Meerlust is one of the oldest wine farms. The Myburgh family has been producing wine on the Meerlust Estate for eight generations. They specialize in red wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.

Their flagship wine is the Rubicon, one of my favorite wines from South Africa. This Bordeaux-style blend was inspired by Nico Myburgh’s trip to France in the 1970s. And I’ve tried a number of their other wines and they’re all excellent.

You can taste the full range and learn about the history of Meerlust in their wine tasting room. And if you’re looking for unique places to stay in wine country, check out their on-site accommodation options.

10. Kanonkop Wine Estate

For you Pinotage lovers, Kanonkop is a must-visit. This red-wine-only producer is one of the best examples of Pinotage I’ve tasted.

You can even do a Pinotage-only tasting, including six different wines made from the grape. Other options include sampling Kanonkop’s full range of current vintage wines. And single samples of their premium Estate range.

While you’re there, don’t miss taking a self-guided tour of their cellar and visiting the art gallery.

Pin for Later!

Best Stellenbosch Wine Tour

Wine tours are a great way to explore the Stellenbosch region without having to drive yourself.

I’d recommend this private tour that allows you to customize your itinerary based on the wineries you’re most interested in visiting.

Or if you’re looking for a more affordable option or like the social aspect of a group tour, this is a great full-day tour that visits some of the top wineries.

🚌 Book the Private Tour or the Group Tour

Recommendations may be affiliate links on which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me share new wine destinations with you and I only recommend products and services that I love and think you’ll love too!

Where to Stay for Stellenbosch Wine Tasting

The picturesque town of Stellenbosch is about a half-hour drive from Cape Town International Airport. It’s the second oldest town in South Africa, known for its Cape Dutch architecture. And it’s home to the University of Stellenbosch.

The Eendracht Hotel is a great boutique hotel option that’s also a fantastic value. It’s right in the center of town just steps from all the best restaurants and wine bars. The hotel also serves up a delicious complimentary breakfast.

🏨 Book the Eendracht Hotel

FAQs About Visiting Wineries in Stellenbosch

What wine is produced in stellenbosch.

Stellenbosch is known for top-quality red wines. The region specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which are often blended to create a Bordeaux-style wine . You’ll also see quite a bit of Syrah too.

For whites, Chenin Blanc is the most widely planted grape in South Africa. It’s made in both dry and sweet styles and sometimes sees oak. In cooler sites, they’ve been successful with growing high-quality Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay as well.

South Africa is also credited with creating the Pinotage grape. This crossing between Pinot Noir and Cinsault is often described as having flavors of chocolate and coffee. And it’s the main component in what’s known as a Cape Blend.

When is the Best Time to Visit Stellenbosch Wineries?

If you’re traveling from the Northern Hemisphere, keep in mind that the seasons are reversed in South Africa. So, the grape harvest in Stellenbosch usually happens at the beginning of the year (January to March). These are also some of the warmest months.

I recommend visiting the Cape Winelands during March, April, September, or December. These are the best months for great weather and you’ll avoid peak season. 

How Many Wineries Are There in Stellenbosch?

The Stellenbosch region has more than 150 wineries.

Do You Need Reservations for Stellenbosch Wineries?

While not all Stellenbosch wine estates require reservations, it’s a good idea to book ahead. Especially during the busy season so you don’t miss out on visiting your top choices.

How Much is a Tasting at Stellenbosch Wine Farms?

Stellenbosch has incredibly affordable wine tastings compared to other wine regions. Most are in the $5 range but you’ll find some are as little as $2. Plus, if you buy a bottle, they’ll often waive your tasting fee.

Is There a Train From Cape Town to Stellenbosch?

There isn’t a train that goes from Cape Town to Stellenbosch. But South Africa does have rideshare apps like Uber that would be a good option. And at less than a 45 minutes drive, it’s definitely doable as a day trip.

Stellenbosch Wine Region

Stellenbosch’s climate and terroir.

When you think Africa, you think hot, right? Based on its latitude, the Stellenbosch region should have a hot climate. In fact, it does have a Mediterranean climate, meaning temperatures are fairly consistent year-round. And summers (i.e., the growing season) tend to be warm and dry.

But there are a few things that cool down the Western Cape of South Africa. And this makes it an ideal location for wine grape growing.

First, you have the Benguela Current. This brings icy-cold water up from Antarctica. It flows along the west coast of Africa, making the South Ocean pretty darn chilly.

Then there’s the Cape Doctor. What does a doctor have to do with wine you ask? Well, this isn’t your stethoscope-wearing-prescription-wielding kind of doctor. It’s the local name for the strong summer winds that bring cool air from the ocean further inland.

On top of all of that, you’ve got the surrounding mountains. These sky-scraping beauties channel the winds from nearby False Bay through the vineyards, cooling them further.

They also give plenty of options for planting at higher altitudes to get off the warm valley floors. And vines can be planted on south-facing slopes, which see less sun and heat than those that face north toward the equator.

History of South African Wine

South African wine is somewhere between Old World and New World. The country has been making wine as far back as the 1600s. But they had a few hiccups along the way that have prevented them from gaining international popularity.

The first wines were made by Dutch settlers during the days when Cape Town was a stopover for The Dutch East India Company. At the time, wine was thought to prevent scurvy. We’re not sure how good the wine was, but it at least appeased all those drunken sailors!

Moving into the 1700s and 1800s, dessert wines were all the rage throughout the world. And South Africa became famous for Constantia, a sweet wine originally produced by the Governor of Cape Town.

Then South African wines took a big hit in the late 1800s when phylloxera arrived. The root louse wiped out pretty much all the vineyards.

And just when they were starting to recover, apartheid began in 1948. Many countries boycotted products from South Africa. So, the wines were essentially cut off from the rest of the world.

Since apartheid’s end in 1994, it’s taken some time to get visibility in the wine industry. But South African wines are on the rise.

Today, there are more than 500 wineries in South Africa, and it’s becoming a hot spot for wine tourism.

Check out More International Wine Destinations

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The Best Douro Valley Wine Tour

How to Visit Cava Wineries Near Barcelona, Spain

The Best Tour for Bordeaux Wine Tasting

4 Best Santorini Wineries with Outstanding Wines

3 Crete Wineries in Chania You’ll Love

Stunning Heraklion Wineries You Won’t Want to Miss in Crete

Have you visited any of these Stellenbosch wineries?

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I'm your go-to gal for all things wine and wanderlust. With a WSET Level 3 certification in wine and passport stamps from 30 countries and counting, I’m here to help you explore the world, one glass at a time.

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I’m Laura, the founder of Wine Travelista. And your go-to gal for all things wine and wanderlust. With a WSET Level 3 certification in wine and passport stamps from 30 countries and counting, I’m here to help you explore the world, one glass at a time.

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ABSOLUTE Best Wine Farms in Stellenbosch & the Cape Winelands

Home » Blog » South Africa » ABSOLUTE Best Wine Farms in Stellenbosch & the Cape Winelands

South Africa’s Cape Winelands are overflowing with some of the finest wines and estates in the world. We’ve put together this list of the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands that are worth stopping by for a sip.

Just an hour drive east of Cape Town is the largest and oldest wine making region in the world, known as the Cape Winelands .

A picturesque backdrop of valleys flanked by mountains, sewn together with vineyards, helps celebrate the region’s unique terroir and cultivation practices used to make award-winning wines.

Between the three main towns, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, there are over 100 extraordinary wineries you can visit. Many of these wine farms boast inexpensive tastings, generous pours, and next-level hospitality.

In this guide, we are sharing the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and surrounding areas worth sipping at. In addition, we’re sharing the best time to visit and different ways you can access and explore this region.

Cape Winelands Travel Guide

• Our top picks
• Overview of Cape Winelands

Best wine farms in Stellenbosch

Best wine farms in franschhoek, best wine farms in paarl, best wine farms in constantia.

• Round up of the best wine farms
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Best wine tours

Our top picks for the best wine farms in Stellenbosch

If you’re looking for quick answers to our top recommendations, here you go. These are the best wine farms in Stellenbosch to meet every traveler’s desires:

• Best wine: Delair Graff (but really you can’t go wrong!)
• Best views: Tokara
• Best for families: Boschendal
• Best restaurant: Chef’s Warehouse at Beau Constantia // Babel at Babylonstoren
• 100% Black female owned: Seven Sisters Vineyards

Click on the links above to jump to that section, or keep reading for more detailed information on each and more of the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands. 

Overview of the Cape Winelands

The very first wine (ever) was produced in the Cape Winelands near the mid-1600s. Since then the region’s fertile valleys and rolling hills have slowly developed into a world-renowned network of towns.

Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are the three most popular base camps to visit within the region. Each with an impressive variety of wine farms showcasing distinct tasting notes, personality, and awards.

• Stellenbosch : The most famous wine-producing region in the Cape Winelands known for its exceptional Cabernet, Sauvignon, Merlot, and Bordeaux wines. The university town is filled with quaint coffee shops, restaurants, museums, and world-class accommodation.
• Franschhoek : As South Africa’s Gourmet Food Capital, this French-influenced town features centuries-old vineyards, chocolate tastings, craft beer, world-class shops, and the finest cuisine between two lush, green nature reserves.
• Paarl : Historic monuments and award-winning red wines are the main draws of the second oldest wine region in South Africa. The variety of entertaining attractions and exhibits make this an ideal base camp if you have kids. 
• Constantia : While not typically considered part of the Cape Winelands, Constantia is closest to Cape Town and hosts a handful of notable wine farms we included at the end of this article.

Stellenbosch is the heart and soul of the Cape Winelands with estates continually ranked as some of the best in the world. 

• Known for: Award-winning wine and world-class olive oil
• Distance from Cape Town: 58.2 km (36 miles), 46 minutes away
• Must try: Telos, a Cabernet Sauvignon that defines this variety in Stellenbosch.

The Tokara Estate is surrounded by lush green valleys and the beauty of the Simonsberg Mountains. They’re prized for both their Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. 

Taste the magic of their soil at one of their wine tastings and order one of their platters to sample their local cheeses and delicious olive oil.

As you sit among fine art in the Tokara Restaurant, you can admire views over Stellenbosch and False Bay while being served fine wine over lunch or one of their 4-6 course dinners. 

For something more casual, their Delicatessen offers seasonal, gourmet food in a child-friendly setting. After you’ve wined and dined, you can stroll through their sculpture garden or their gallery of curated art.

• Delair Graff

• Known for: One of the most prestigious wineries in the world 
• Distance from Cape Town: 59 km (36 miles), 48 minutes away
• Must try: Delaire’s Laurence Graff Reserve, renowned as the best Cabernet Sauvignon in South Africa.

The Delair Graff Estate rose to its luxurious, world-class status in just the blink of an eye. One sip of their wine and you’ll realize why the estate is recognized as a piece of heaven and earth in Stellenbosch .

In their Wine Lounge, choose from 3 different tastings and an array of platters and snacks to pair with your wine. The servers are wine pros, giving you all the details and qualities of what separates Delair Graff from other wines.

While you’re here, you MUST make a reservation at either one of their restaurants: Delair Graff Restaurant or Indochine. The latter is widely recognized as one of the best restaurants in Cape Town.

Their spa has half and full-day services where you can relax and unwind. Stay at any of their luxurious lodges or Owner’s Villa to immerse yourself in breathtaking views, amenities, and legendary infinity pool.

• Known for: 8 Elements – major geographical features that create the unique climate and terroir of the vineyard
• Distance from Cape Town: 63 km (39 miles), 53 minutes away
• Must try: The CL Series have wines that are ‘cool’, due to the evening temperatures of the region, making for a unique tasting experience. 

Nestled in an elevated valley within an impressive mountain amphitheater, Oldenburg Vineyards has a distinct signature due to Rondekop, a round hill in the center of the farm that influences the vineyards on and around it. 

On any of their 6, carefully curated tastings you can experience their unique wine and enjoy a complimentary platter of cheese, crackers, and olives. Book your tastings in advance as reservations are essential. 

The beauty of the mountainous atmosphere and happenings in the vineyards are poured directly into your glass, creating symphony and harmony within the tasting room. 

If you’re traveling in a large group, Oldenburg’s Homestead Villa is nestled in a secluded and tranquil location and holds 200 year old Cape Dutch style that makes for a peaceful getaway.

• Seven Sisters Vineyards

• Known for: One of few 100% black female-owned wineries in South Africa
• Distance from Cape Town: 41.5 km (26 miles), 31 minutes away
• Must try: Sauvignon Blanc, the first South African wine to be served on board American Airlines.

The Seven Sisters Vineyard is a first-generation wine farm and is one of the most established emerging wine brands in South Africa .

What began as a piece of barren land in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands was soon transformed by self-taught wine entrepreneur Vivian, whose goal is to establish a family legacy for generations to come.

During a visit, you can experience their inclusive and warm family atmosphere through home-cooked, authentic lunches on a terrace overlooking the planted hills of Lynedoch.

As of now, their wine tastings, pairings, and tours are only available to groups of 15 and up by prior booking. If you don’t have your own group to go with, you can join a tour guide or tour operator that offers visits to their farm. 

• Known for: The official home of South Africa’s famous Pinotage
• Distance from Cape Town: 56.7 km (35 miles), 45 minutes away
• Must try: Pionier Pinotage 2017, a tribute to the world’s first bottled Pinotage in 1959.

While visiting any wine farm in South Africa, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to try Pinotage, a unique wine blend that can only be found in South Africa. 

Pinotage was first bottled at Lanzerac, so it only makes sense to sample it at its birthplace.

Choose from 3 different tailor-made tastings, one of which includes a chocolate pairing, in the comfort of the tasting room or out on the veranda overlooking scenic vineyards.

The wine farm’s signature style shines at their onsite hotel and spa, where old-world style meets modern-flair.

Lanzerac is also acclaimed as one of the top gourmet destinations in Stellenbosch, which you can indulge in at any of their four different dining options, each with their own distinct atmosphere and set of menus. 

• Jordan Wine Estate

• Known for: Panoramic views and fiercely individual wines made from their diverse terroir
• Distance from Cape Town: 50.1 km (31 miles), 42 minutes away
• Must try: 2015 Nine Yards Chardonnay, one of their 5-star wines part of the estate’s must-try reserve collection.

The history of the Jordan Wine Estate dates back over 300 years, but after Gary and Kathy Jordan bought and replanted the estate in 1993, their legendary winemaking gave the estate its world-class status in wine, food, and accommodation in only 25 years.

From their 3 different tastings, we recommend the Reserve & Site Specific Selection where you can sample the estates most sought-after wines. No matter which you choose, though, you won’t regret adding one of their cheese or meat platters to your table.

A truly memorable experience at the Jordan Estate is their wine safari, where you can tour the vineyards in an open-style safari Land Rover that stops at spectacular and panoramic views.

Book a picnic with wine and treats from The Cellar Door, or find mouth-watering dishes at High Timber and the newly renovated Marthinus Ferreira.

Good to know : 48 hours notice is required for all picnic bookings.

• Known for: Wines of international standards for everyone to enjoy
• Distance from Cape Town: 46.6 km (29 miles), 34 minutes away
• Must try: Cuvee Royale 2017, a Methode Cap Classique that gains flavor and complexity for several years after bottling.

Simonsig is a family-owned wine farm that has maintained their legacy for over 3 generations.

The history of the South African wine industry, Stellenbosch wine region, and Malan-family are all synonymous with the Simonsig estate. 

First generation Frans Malan helped establish the Stellenbosch Wine Route and produced South Africa’s very first Methode Cap Classique.

They offer 5 different wine tastings ranging from daily offerings, premium wines, and sweeter varieties. They also have artisanal cheese, charcuterie, and mixed platters can be enjoyed with your tasting.

Book a cellar tour (in advance) to get a firsthand look and taste at their Cap Classique using the bottle-fermented style.

• Known for: Regenerative farming and the oldest dated wine cellar in South Africa
• Distance from Cape Town: 42.3 km (26 miles), 32 minutes away
• Must try: Gables Pinotage 2018

Spier is seeped with rich history and over 80,000 sustainably farmed vines.

The estate is all-encompassing where families, foodies, romantics, and even art lovers can choose their own adventure on the farm for a well-rounded, immersive visit .

From their tasting menus, choose either from two specialized tastings, or their chocolate and wine pairing.

As for food, you can set up a picnic under massive oak trees, find ready-to-eat foods at the Farm Cafe, make a reservation at the Hotel Restaurant, or enjoy farm-to-table foods at Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery.  

Fun fact : The Stellenbosch Wine Route was established by Spier’s very own Neil Joubert.

• Known for: The first and only dedicated sparkling wine cellar in South Africa.
• Distance from Cape Town: 52.7 km (33 miles), 43 minutes away
• Must try: Sauvignon Blanc, the first sparkling wine made exclusively from this single variety.

The House of JC le Roux is the leading estate in sparkling wines for their commitment to new styles and varieties. 

They launched the first ever sparkling red wine in South Africa, La Chanson, and the first-ever sparkling wine made exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc grapes.

You can taste both these varieties in their Sparkling Wine or Mixed Dry tastings. Enjoy the bubbly as is, or pair them with nougat, cheesecakes, or mini pizzas. On hot days, their poptails are a fun way to cool down.

If you have a designated driver or someone that doesn’t drink alcohol in your group, they also have non-alcoholic tastings and pairings! 

During your visit, you can grab wood-fired pizzas, seafood, steaks, and chicken dishes at Cucina Di Giovanni.

• Known for: Their unique blend of Ukrainian and South African wine culture
• Distance from Cape Town: 51.1 km (32 miles), 38 minutes away
• Must try: Namysto Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 is a multi-award winning wine and Sommeliers Selection winner.

Quoin Rock is a historic, yet state-of-the-art Stellenbosch wine destination , that was transformed in 2012 to bring their art, ambiance, and architecture to the same standard as their superior wines.

In their Wine Lounge, join a tasting tour of five Quoin Rock selected wines with one of their single or combination platters. On nice days, their outdoor seating has idyllic views of Simonsberg and the sloped vineyards.

Good to know : Walk-ins for tastings are allowed for groups of 5 or less

Luxury picnics at the foot of the Simonsberg mountains or a reserved table at their fine-dining restaurant, Gate, are perfect if you’re looking for a more filling visit.

However, to experience the best at the Quoin Rock Estate, head to Qbar, where their top sommeliers and chefs showcase their absolute best wines, cocktails, and tapas in a vibrant evening setting.

Nearly 45 different wine farms have established themselves among the rolling vineyards and French-inspired Cape Dutch architecture of Franschhoek. Of them, these estates are the most impressive.

• Known for: One of the oldest wine estates in South Africa
• Distance from Cape Town: 61.3 km (38 miles), 43 minutes away
• Must try: Boschendal Brut that uses the Cap Classique method a cellarmaster helped pioneer while working on the estate in 1981.

The sprawling estate of Boschendal is overflowing with award-winning wines and endless ways to escape from the bustle of Cape Town. The estate is so large it resembles a quaint town and has a lively community .

Choose from 2 wine tastings under their iconic giant oak tree and opt to sip their finest wines with any of their signature platters, chocolate, cheese, or charcuterie pairings.

Tour their internationally-acclaimed rose garden, find adventure along their hiking and biking trails, explore on horseback, go swimming, or wind-down at their farm spa. 

At the WERF Restaurant, you can dine on some of the best food spreads in the Cape Winelands , with most of the ingredients sourced directly sourced from their gardens.

The weekend picnics and accommodation options are highlights of this property, so be sure to book them in advance!

• Haute Cabriere

• Known for: Gentle cellar practices that allow the estates distinctive terroir to shine through their wines
• Distance from Cape Town: 76.5 km (47.5 miles), 56 minutes away
• Must try: With only 0.8 hectares of high-density planting, the Pinot Noir shines due to the phenomenal fruit and flavors harvested in this patch.

Established in 1694, Haute Cabriere celebrates the history and customs of the Champagne Valley of France by honoring the original landowner and French Huguenot, Pierre Jourdan, through their commitment to heritage, integrity, and innovation.

Enjoy wine and great company inside their stone-encased tasting room for an experience unlike any other. You can choose from 4 different tastings highlighting their signature Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties.

Have a pour or two with French-inspired South African cuisine at their restaurant, or stop by their bakery for fresh pastries and coffee/tea.

Insider tip : This estate is known for having the BEST views in all of Franschhoek from their outdoor patio overlooking the entire valley.

Good to know : This estate is cashless.

• Holden Manz Wine Estate

• Known for: ideal conditions for ultra-premium wines 
• Distance from Cape Town: 78.2 km (48.5 miles), 58 minutes away
• Must try: Rarely, when Merlot and Syrah grapes ripen at the same time, only the best berries are hand-sorted for this maiden, co-fermented wine.

Ultra premium Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Merlot are poured at the hidden gem of Franschhoek , the Holden Manz Wine Estate.

In their tasting room, choose from 6 different wine tastings catered to a variety of different palettes. Enjoy small bites from their tasting menu, reserve a table at the a la carte kitchen, or take your wine down to the Franschhoek River with a pre-packed picnic basket. 

Their 5-star country house is in a prime location at the doorstep of the Cape Winelands. Soak in the lavish and luxurious estate and enjoy a terrace breakfast, platinum wine tasting, and in-suite wine included with your stay.

Good to know : This estate is best visited in the early morning to avoid larger crowds from the wine trams. Note though, tram visitors get a discount on tastings and cellar door prices.

• Known for: Limited harvest using slow-ripened grapes
• Distance from Cape Town: 75.8 km (47 miles), 57 minutes away
• Must try: Dieu Donne Merlot, a pour that has earned Gold and Silver Medal accolades for over 10 years, both internationally and domestically.

Situated along the steep slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains, Dieu Donne offers spectacular mountain views that unmistakably coincide with the estates literal meaning, “ A Gift from God ”, or “ God Given ”.

The wines here have their own signature growing conditions that are only found in their corner of the valley. Because of the special conditions, the vines do not overproduce and there is a limited amount of bottles per harvest. In fact, they produce less than 14,000 cases of wine per harvest.

Try their unique pours in their tasting room, or take your experience to the next level by booking one of their cellar tours (in advance). They offer 3 different tastings with 4-5 wines each.

Pair any of their wines with the impressive menus and views offered at Country Grand, the estates onsite restaurant. If you can’t find yourself parting ways with their legendary views, you can soak them up for a bit longer by staying in their boutique hotel, Maison Montagne.

The second largest wine region in South Africa is filled with undiscovered gems, generational traditions, proud heritage, and of course, incredible pours.

• Babylonstoren

• Known for: Some of the best preserved examples of colonial farming architecture
• Distance from Cape Town: 53.2 km (33 miles), 39 minutes away
• Must try: Made with French oak barrels, the old-world style Chardonnay has been named the ultimate food wine.

Babylonstoren is one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa located at the foot of the Simonsberg Mountains.

A few different wine-tastings are offered daily on a first-come-first-served basis. Their platters of charcuterie, cheese, and produce are all grown onsite and truly drool-worthy.

The epicenter of the estate is an 8-acre garden showcasing over 300 species of fruits, veggies, livestock, bees, indigenous plants, and even a rice paddy. ALL of which supply the farm-to-fork restaurants, bakery, and shop. 

You could easily spend a full day touring this multifaceted estate sampling 5 wines at their daily tastings, relaxing in the Garden Spa, or attending a workshop. Wrap up the perfect day by staying in their array of gorgeous farmhouses or cottages.

• Vrede en Lust

• Known for: Family-owned farm flanked by the vertical cliffs of Simonsberg Mountain
• Distance from Cape Town: 56 km (35 miles), 40 minutes away
• Must try: The Anni Sauvignon Blanc has received Grand Cru National Champion Best in Class as well as the Top 100 & Double Platinum awards.

Vrede en Lust’s award-winning red and select white wines are deeply rooted in over 300 years of passionate farming. 

Choose from 5 different wine tastings, 3 of which offer cheese, Lindt chocolates, or tapas as a pairing option, and enjoy views of the Simonsberg Paarl Mountains as you sip.

This farm is the perfect place to getaway for a few days in the Cape Winelands with a variety of accommodation options and activities near the Paarl Valley: horse riding, golf, fly fishing, bike rentals, helicopter tours, day tours, and a wellness spa.

There’s also two restaurants onsite that offer seasonal menus that pair perfectly with their wines whether you’re here for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or tapas. 

• Fairview Wine and Cheese

• Known for: Carbon neutral practices that are driven by ethical and sustainable standards
• Distance from Cape Town: 57.3 km (35 miles), 41 minutes away
• Must try: Taste their award-winning Single Vineyard batches, where the criteria for growing is a rigorous process that includes the quality of grape, soil, climate, topography, and impact.

Fairview takes wine and dining to the next level with their world-renowned tasting rooms and commitment to both sustainability and ingenuity.

They offer five different wine and cheese tastings: Master, Farmers, Standard, Cheese, and Kids. 

Their Master Tasting that features 8 premium wines, 8 cheeses, fresh bread, and olive oil is one of the most sought-after tastings in the Winelands , and gives you the complete Fairview experience.

Peruse their Deli for a variety of homemade and sustainable local products like artisanal bread and old-fashioned jams, meet the farm’s furry mascot at the Goat Tower, or book a table or picnic at the Goatshed.

• Known for: Ranking on the World’s Most Admired Wine Brands Top 50 List for 4 consecutive years
• Distance from Cape Town: 66.5 km (41 miles), 45 minutes away
• Must try: Nederburg’s Two Centuries Sauvignon Blanc has won some of the most prestigious accolades for local and international competitions.

This praised estate is considered to be the creme de la creme of wine tasting in the Cape Winelands. It’s one of the most popular wine farms in South Africa with a variety of different ways to indulge in their world-renowned pours.

The Manor, a stunning 18th-century National Monument turned restaurant, offers a variety of different menus that honor South African heritage, including both a traditional wine tasting and a coffee tasting that is special to this farm. 

Delight your senses on the ‘Dinner’ of Discovery, a dining experience curated to shift your senses for a better understanding of wine, food, and flavors. 

Among their verdant lawns, you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon picnicking on the Minor lawns. Each picnic basket is fully equipped with all the essentials: cutlery, glasses, napkins, blankets, and even pillows.

Situated just beneath Table Mountain National Park, Constantia is the oldest wine-making region in the southern hemisphere. These award-winning wine farms are just 20-minutes away from the heart of Cape Town with panoramic vistas of surrounding mountain ranges.

• Beau Constantia

• Known for: Panoramic views from their glass-encased tasting room
• Distance from Cape Town: 16.7 km (10 miles), 19 minutes away
• Must try: Sample their Pas de Nom Range, a wine that was crafted as a homage to Oom Japie Bronn, who first managed the farm and devoted his life to establishing their signature high-altitude vineyards.

Sitting on the steepest agricultural slopes in the Cape, Beau Constantia offers unspoiled views of the Stellenbosch and Helderberg Mountain ranges , and False Bay as you sample award-winning wines.

Inside the wine room, you can choose from 2 of their signature tastings, Pas de Nom or Beau Constantia. If you’re a foodie, the tasting platters are a must-try as they’re a culinary experience in and of themselves!

Or you can reserve a table at the Chef’s Warehouse (one of the best restaurants in Cape Town), pairing the wine with the chef’s classic and experimental plates. On weekends, you can keep things casual at the farm’s rotating food truck.

Good to know : This boutique wine farm has a loyal following, so book any wine tastings or dinner reservations ahead of time.

Constantia Glen

• Known for: Ultra-premium, cool-climate wines
• Distance from Cape Town: 17.9 km (11 miles), 19 minutes away
• Must try: The Sauvignon Blanc 2015 is a cornerstone of the estate with well-integrated minerality, balance, and length.

Known for their South African Bordeaux style blends , Constantia Glen serves crispy white and fresh, vibrant red wines that are unparalleled due to their unique location between Constantiaberg and Table Mountain.

You can choose from 5 different wine tasting menus that sample some of the estate’s finest pours. During your tasting tour, you can order platters and entrees from the onsite restaurant or opt for their chocolate pairing. 

Good to know : This farm has one of the most sought-after views of Cape Town, so book your tastings in the Glass House (if it isn’t too hot) or the Veranda ahead of time, online. 

Round up of the best wine farms in Stellenbosch & the Cape Winelands

• The House of JC le Roux 
• Constancia Glen

Best time to visit the Cape Winelands

February to May are the best months for sipping in the Cape Winelands.

The grapes are the ripest for picking in February and March during the beginning of the autumn harvest. 

During this time there are many wine festivals going on to celebrate one of the world’s greatest wine regions, and the weather is sunny and warm, but not too hot.  

Since this is the most popular time to visit, avoid crowds by starting earlier in the morning and planning your trip on a weekday.

Psst! You’ll find our guide to the best time to visit South Africa helpful to get the full breakdown on what makes each season distinct and unique to help cater to your trip.

How to get to the Cape Winelands

Just east of Cape Town, the gateway to the Cape Winelands region is easy to access using a variety of different transport options. 

With your own rental car, there are two main roads you can take from Cape Town to get to the Winelands: N1 and N2 .

Each route takes about the same amount of time to get to Stellenbosch, then you can access any of the smaller towns from there.

Although a rental is a great way to access many of the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the rest of the winelands, don’t drink and drive!

We highly recommend using Discover Cars to find rental cars in South Africa. You can compare prices across the top, reputable rental companies all at once to get the best price possible. 

Note: I’ve personally found some of the best deals on Discover Cars in Cape Town that saved me a lot of money when compared with rates from other companies. 

Ubers can be a great option for getting from Cape Town to the Winelands. 

You can expect to pay around 450 Rand ($25 USD) to get to Stellenbosch, or more if you plan on visiting more than one winery.

If you’re splitting the ride with others this can be very affordable, but it comes with a few caveats:

• From Cape Town, it’s a long ride to the winelands and a lot of the Ubers do not have AC. 
• If you’re planning on staying late in the winelands, you risk waiting awhile to get an Uber back into the city.

Hire a driver and shuttle

If you’re planning on getting boozy at more than one winery, hiring a driver or shuttle gives immense peace of mind at very reasonable prices.

Reveler Tours has a variety of different sized vans and rates, making it a nice option even if you’re traveling solo or with a larger group.

You can contact them by sending an inquiry online or messaging them on Whatsapp with the number of travelers and what wine experience you’re looking for.

Best wine tours in the Cape Winelands

Joining a tour is an excellent way to explore multiple wineries for a boozy day trip. We recommend these tours that include transport to and from Cape Town.

Franschhoek Wine Tram

The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a hop-on-hop-off experience that takes you through some of the best wineries in the Franschhoek Valley . 

You can choose from 10 different lines , all visiting a unique selection of 8-9 of the best wine estates in specific areas of the valley. 

This tram gives you the ultimate freedom since you can choose how long you spend at each estate, where to eat/drink, and activities along the route.

Cape Town: Full-Day Winelands Tour with Wine Tastings & Food

Discover some of South Africa’s top, award-winning wines on this tour of Cape Town’s most renowned wineries.

This Winelands tour begins north in the Paarl region, where you’ll sample their famed cheese and wine pairings, basking in the countryside views.

From there, you’ll travel to the French-influenced town of Franschhoek, known for its verdant mountain views and rich chapter in South Africa’s wine history. 

The final stop is through the famous wine farms in Stellenbosch to sample the country’s signature Pinotage at award-winning farms. End the tour with a Capetonian a la carte lunch and visit to a historic slave farm turned community wine project

What you need to know:

• Price: $81 / person
• Location: Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek

What guests are saying:

“Denis was a superb host! He was great at engaging with the tour group with both historical information regarding Cape Town wine lands but also with general humor. Each of the wine estates had their own personality and great wine and scenic views. A memorable experience for sure and one that I will always remember.” – Jeremy, United States (January, 2023)

Stellenbosch: Historical Bike Tour & Wine Tasting

This adventurous bike tour through Stellenbosch and the Jonkershoek Valley begins in Cape Town, where you’ll meet your guides, collect your bikes, and begin riding to your first stop.

You’ll cruise through historic sites around Stellenbosch and winding roads lined with oak forests before arriving at the first wine estate at the end of Jonkershoek Valley. Sample award-winning wines, then cycle to the second and final estate of the day.

Join a private cellar tour and enjoy a chocolate and wine pairing admiring historic Cape Dutch architecture, before making your way back to Cape Town.

Variations of this 4-5 hour tour can be arranged depending on your cycling abilities. They also have eBikes available to rent for R150 for a more relaxing ride.

• Price: $55 / person
• Location: Stellenbosch and the Jonkershoek Valley

“…The tour delivered in every aspect. Our host Sevvo was informative, personable and charismatic! We had lovely weather and a tour took us through the history of the town and out to two beautiful vineyards. We sampled some wine and learnt a lot about the local wine making processes and history. We couldn’t have asked for more and would recommend this tour for people of all ages and abilities!” – Pete (October, 2019)

African Story Wine Tours in the Cape Winelands

This expert-led wine tour takes you through the three most famous regions of the Cape Winelands: Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek.

Visit 4 different premier wineries, sampling a variety of red and white wines, as well as regional specialities of chocolate, cheese, and olives.

Because this is a small group tour, you will get a more comprehensive introduction to South African wines and have a more intimate tasting experience. 

“Our guide Phenus made everything enjoyable from start to finish. The wineries were a wonderful varied combination offering an informal educational tasting experience. […] Thank you African Story Wine Tours for a memorable day.” – Trishchad, Jan 2023

Blend and bottle your own wine Stellenbosch wine experience

Take your visit to the Cape Winelands to the next level with this authentic and personal wine tasting tour . Visit the most accoladed wineries in Stellenbosch, ending your tour by blending and bottling your very own bottle of wine.

You’ll enjoy a full cellar tour of award-winning wines, take part in a master class in wine etiquette, take a peek into South Africa’s top winemaker’s cellar, and an a la carte lunch on a terrace with beautiful views of the Stellenbosch Valley.

This is an ideal tour if you want a more in-depth visit to the most prestigious region of the Cape Winelands, sipping award-winning wines and listening to Stellenbosch’s most significant stories and rich-history.

• Price: $100
• Location: Stellenbosch

“ Robby was an absolute delight! He was so knowledgeable and a complete pleasure with both facts regarding surrounding areas of Cape Town and the wine experience. He had everything well planned out, a comfortable presence, a friendly and humorous demeanor, and was truly the best guide one could ask for. […] I cannot wait to come back to Cape Town and partake in more of the tours and experiences he and his family offers.” – Trip Advisor Reviewer (September, 2022)

You might also like…

• Franschhoek Wine Tram: ESSENTIAL Guide + Tips
• Fun Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa
• South African Garden Route: Itinerary + Tips
• Coolest Airbnbs in Cape Town

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• Our Self-Guided Wine Tour in Stellenbosch & Franschhoek 

by Nichole | Last updated Apr 4, 2024 | Best Wine Africa , South Africa

South Africa is known for some exceptional wines, particularly their Pinotage. One of the best ways to experience these top wines is to visit the wineries that make them! My husband and I have done quite a few winecations and love crafting wine tour itineraries. We’ll walk you through our personal Self-Guided Wine Tour in Stellenbosch & Franschhoek, two of the most famous wine regions in South Africa. And we used Uber to make this itinerary happen!

* Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are from first-hand experience that I feel will deliver value to you! Thank you for your continued support.

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How to Design Your Self-Guided Wine Tour 

01- ideal wine tour day, 02- pick your wine regions + wineries, 03- how to use uber for a wine tour, 04- pick your lunch spot, our self-guided wine tour overview, self-guided cape winelands itinerary, 9 am: pick-up time, 10:30 am: kanonkop wine estate, 12:30 pm: lunch + wine at the table at de meye, 4 pm: moreson wine farm, 7:30 pm: chefs warehouse at maison estate, final thoughts, related content.

First, realize there are 4 ways you can do a Cape Town Wine Tour .

All have their pros and cons.

We did two full days of wine tasting in South Africa, one with a private wine tour company and one self-guided.   It was fun to experience both for different reasons.

Vineyards outside Cape Vue Country House in Franschhoek, South Africa

After doing quite a few wine tours over the years, we have a bit of practice with what an ideal wine tour day looks like.  

I believe the best wine tasting itinerary looks something like this:

→     Winery #1

→     Leisurely lunch with wine pairings at Winery #2

→     Winery #3

If you do any more than 3 wineries, you may experience “wine fatigue,” where all the wine tastes the same at the end. This setup offers a relaxed pace to truly appreciate and enjoy the wine you are tasting.

Picking which wine region + wineries to visit was the toughest choice because prior to our visit I knew very little about South Africa wine.

The five most famous South Africa wine regions are Constantia, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl, and Walker Bay. Each wine region is known for different wine varietals.

Once you select your wine region, how do you even begin to sift through all the wineries to figure out which ones to pick?

Luckily, I have done a lot of this research for you. Check out my article below that goes through the top South Africa wine regions and the top-rated wineries in each region.  

Once you select your wineries, then see how close your top choices are to each other.

When you are planning your own wine tour day using Uber, you’ll need to select wineries that are relatively close to each other.

We picked one winery in Franschhoek and two wineries in Stellenbosch.

If possible, try to select wineries that do not require advance reservations. That way if it takes a while for your Uber to pick you up, you are not stressing about making your reservation in time. 

By the way, an Uber driver can be a little difficult to find very late in the day.

My husband and I are big foodies and are guilty of planning vacations around a culinary experience .

Yes, we have done quite a few Michelin-rated/starred experiences, but our favorites are the smaller quaint establishments that really focus on high-quality ingredients local to the area.

Some of the wineries will offer a gourmet lunch along with your wine pairings.

I’ll save you the hassle of this important decision.

Pick this restaurant in my top 5 Cape Wineland restaurants (hint: it’s #4 on the list). You will thank me later. Love, love, love them!

→     WINE REGIONS WE VISITED: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

→     TRANSPORT: Uber

→     UBER COST: $54.09 total (with tip) for 2 people or $27 pp. Wine tasting not included.

→     WINERIES WE VISITED: Kanonkop, De Meye (ate at The Table at De Meye), Morseon Wine Farm

After a full breakfast at our Franschhoek accommodation, Cape Vue Country House , we were ready for a day of wine tasting! 

Kanonkop Kadette and Estate Range Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch South Africa

Uber Cost: $18.82 USD (Cape Vue Country House to Kanonkop Wine Estate)

Kanonkop Wine Estate is home to one of the top-rated Pinotages in South Africa! This Stellenbosch winery is recognized as the country’s equivalent of a Premier Cru. 

What is Pinotage?

Created in 1925, Pinotage is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. It obtained its notoriety when Kanonkop’s Pinotage won the Robert Mondavi Trophy for the Best Red Wine at the 1991 International Wine and Spirits Competition in London.

How did the winery’s name come about? 

During the 17th and 18th centuries, a cannon (kanon) was fired on top of the hill (kop) to let the local farmers know to load up their produce to barter with the incoming ships. This estate was first purchased by JW Sauer and has been passed down four generations in the family and is now currently operated by brothers Paul & Johann Krige. 

Kanonkop produces two ranges of wine: Kadette and the Estate Range .

The Kadette Range is softer and more fruit-forward and is meant to be consumed earlier whereas the Estate Range is more complex and made to be aged for enjoyment years later.

We tried 3 wines from the Kadette Range (2019 Pinotage Rose, 2017 Cape Blend, 2017 Pinotage) and 3 from the Estate Range (2017 Pinotage, 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2016 Paul Sauer).

One of our favorites was the Estate Range Pinotage. This elegant wine was savory with good structure and tannins and tasted of blackberries and plums.

Although we tasted the 2017 Estate Pinotage, we purchased the 2009 Estate Pinotage because we heard this vintage is widely regarded as one of the greatest vintages in the South Africa wine industry.

Of note, the Black Label Pinotage is made from one of the oldest Pinotage vineyards in South Africa. It has an aging potential of 20-25 years from the vintage.

We were celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary in South Africa, so we decided to purchase this 96-point 2017 bottle to enjoy on our 30th! I cannot wait.

Kanonkop’s Top Rated Wines

Wine dog at Kanonkop Wine Estates

One of the reasons for Kanonkop’s success is its incredibly skilled winemaker, Abrie Beeslaar.

The International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in London, which is the world’s top wine and spirits competition, has awarded him with the title International Winemaker of the Year several times now. 

In addition to being the winemaker at Kanonkop, Abrie also has his own label called Beeslaar . His bottles are hard to find, but we were finally able to find a Beeslar 2017 Pinotage in a wine shop next to The Test Kitchen called Open Wine. 

The Table at De Meye indoor dining area

Uber Cost: $6.39 USD (Kanonkop to De Meye Wine Estate)

The next stop was lunch at The Table at De Meye .

We ate at most of the top restaurants in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands , and this was our favorite!

This is truly the ultimate South Africa wine country experience … sharing and enjoying a meal with family and friends in a beautiful idyllic setting.

We were greeted by the sweetest owner, Leigh Williamson, and seated inside due to the weather being cooler that day.  We will have to come back when it is warmer because the property has a lovely garden with dining tables shaded by trees.

Leigh had fond memories of eating at The Table as a child, so when the opportunity presented to purchase the estate, she jumped on it.

Along with her partner, Chef Brendan Thorncroft, they continue to maintain the authentic charm and delicious food.

Stuffed porchetta at The Table De Meye Restaurant in Stellenbosch, South Africa

The De Meye Wine Estate produces several red and white wines. We enjoyed a bottle of their refreshing crisp, dry Shiraz Rose to pair with our lunch.

The sharing-style lunch menu is a surprise and changes weekly. The Table is known for simple but refined comfort dishes.

Leigh went over each course as it came out. Not only did she explain what food you were eating and how it was prepared but which local farmer it came from. You cannot get more farm-to-table than that!

Two words to sum up the experience: Simple.   Delicious.

Three and a half hours later, I reluctantly peeled myself off the seat for the next stop.

Moreson Wine Farm in South Africa wine country

Uber Cost: $5.71 USD (The Table to Moreson Wine Farm)

The Moresone Wine Farm has been passed down three generations and is currently operated by the close-knit Friendman family. The two brothers (Dane and Blake) and two sisters (Nikki and Charlie) who make up the third generation have fond childhood memories of growing up on this farm and helping their dad make the wine.

Winemaker Clayton Reabow joined Moreson in 2007 and has continued to help produce the estate’s award-winning wines including Pinotage, Chardonnay, and Blanc de Blancs.

We walked through the flower-filled courtyard and into the quaint tasting room. A friendly staff member greeted us and walked us through a tasting of several notable wines.

One was the Moreson Method Cap Classique Solitaire Blanc de Blancs, which had yeasty undertones and well-balanced acidity.

Another standout was the Moreson Widow Maker Pinotage, which is a rich wine with black cherry and plum flavors.

Moreson MKM Pinotage

Moreson Wildcraft Gin

Another must-try wine is the MKM Pinotage .

This wine is Moreson’s flagship Pinotage, which is considered to be one of the top 10 Pinotages in South Africa. MKM was named after a long-time employee, Moraka Klaas Maffa, who sadly passed away in 2011. This bold, smooth, and savory wine is characterized by dark fruit, spice, and tobacco.

We were also able to try Moreson’s small-batch Wildcraft Equinox 79 Gin, which is made from triple-distilled Chardonnay and nine botanicals.

All in all, great wine tasting experience!

A quick Uber ride back to our hotel in Franschhoek cost $23.17. 

Slow cooked pork belly at Chefs Warehouse at Maison in Franschhoek South Africa

Last meal in South Africa wine country … Chefs Warehouse at Maison Estate .

Dublin-born Chef Liam Tomlin owns several restaurants in his restaurant empire. Instead of formal tasting menus, he focuses on contemporary tapas-style food that offers great value for the money.

Over the course of 2 hours, we enjoyed some delicious small plates that came out in three courses such as fennel & mustard risotto, tandoori cauliflower, slow-cooked pork belly, and karoo lamb.

Our Self-Guided Franschhoek & Stellenbosch Wine Tour using Uber allowed for a very fun, relaxed itinerary. Sipping exceptional South Africa wine is one of my top things to do in South Africa ! 

Make reservations for your lunch in the middle and then pick a winery for the morning and afternoon that does not require reservations. That way your day will truly be at leisure as you discover some of the best South Africa wine country has to offer!

I hope this guide helps you design your own wine tour itinerary.  

If you need more help planning your South Africa wine country getaway, don’t miss my article below! 

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• Franschhoek & Stellenbosch Wine Tour

Scheduled Day Wine Tours

Cost: R 1675 per person

• Day Wine Tours

Cape Town to Franschhoek and Stellenbosch Wine Tour

This small group wine tour runs on Mondays and Tuesdays. You will visit TWO wine estates in the Franschhoek region with a guided walk through the town itself. After lunch, your guide will take you to a boutique wine estate in Stellenbosch where you will have a personal cheese and chocolate wine pairing with a winemaker in her private home. This is the most popular wine tour to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

This is a fantastic tour if you would like to see both of the most popular wine regions in Cape Town. Our buses accommodate a maximum of 13 guests, so it’s cozy and intimate. Our tour guides are very educated, have wonderful personalities and a wealth of wine knowledge. Take a peek at our TripAdvisor reviews if you need more information and feedback.

Tour Includes

• All pickups and drop-offs around Cape Town
• Your own qualified tour guide
• Three Wine Farms
• A guided walk through charming Franschhoek
• Lunch at a gorgeous wine estate
• 15+ wine tastings
• Cheese and wine pairing
• Chocolate and wine pairing
• Biltong tasting
• Cellar Tour

Note: Pick-up times in the City Bowl are between 08:30 – 09:00. Pick-ups in the Atlantic Seaboard and Waterfront are between 09:00 – 09:30. You can expect to be back in Cape Town at approximately 17:30! Whatsapp us if you have any queries on this Cape Town Wine Tour: +27 81 500 8595

What Our Clients Say

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