So, whether you're enchanted by the allure of sweet indulgence or craving savoury delights, we've mapped out the ultimate destinations for your flavourful festivities.
Creation’s new energy pairing odyssey
Cradled in the bounteous embrace of the Hemel-en-Aarde valley, Creation ascends to the distinguished ranks as the fourth-best vineyard globally. Revered for its extraordinary creativity in crafting sensorial food and wine pairings, their recently unveiled anti-inflammatory summer Energy Pairing Menu is a symphony of flavours celebrating the balance between wellness and wine. This culinary masterpiece draws inspiration from the surrounding nature and rich terroir, boasting an 80% plant-based composition, showcasing the zenith of local produce.
The 'Welcome' course begins with a natural rehydrate and petrichor, and unveils the tomato gazpacho, harmonising seamlessly with the delightful notes of the Creation Peace Rosé. Subsequent chapters enchant with meticulously curated pairings, such as the edamame and cos lettuce Salad dancing in tandem with the mineral-rich notes of Creation Sauvignon Blanc, and the oyster mushroom taco, a culinary crescendo heightened by Viognier's natural acidity.
Each chapter unfolds as a masterpiece, from the B'Bos Trout and Absolutely Brilliant Chardonnay to the succulent lamb, seducing the senses with the irresistible aromas and velvety textures of the Creation Reserve Pinot Noir. Culminating in a grand finale, the rose geranium cheesecake, adorned with turmeric and blueberry, finds its perfect match in the luscious embrace of The Creation Fine Cape Vintage Sweet Temptation.
Embarking on a nature-infused culinary odyssey, this unparalleled experience celebrates the harmonious union of flavours in an exquisite setting.
Cavalli’s oyster pairing perfection
A sensory symphony waiting to be explored, Cavalli Estate is celebrated for its exceptional wines, delectable cuisine, prestigious stud farm, cutting-edge design, indigenous landscapes, and awe-inspiring art collection.
Their exclusive oyster and wine pairing, served on the deck perfumed by fynbos, overlooking a tranquil dam against the majestic Helderberg mountain range, is an extraordinary odyssey for the discerning palate. Indulge in the dance of flavours as tempura; spiced plum, pineapple, and citrus; and fynbos mignonette oysters harmonise with the estate's signature Cap Classique; velvety Cremello; crisp Chenin Blanc; robust Shiraz; and bold Cabernet Sauvignon.
Perdeberg’s marshmallow magic
Nestled at the foothills of the enchanting Paardeberg Mountain, Perdeberg Cellar beckons with an enticing divergence in a marshmallow and wine tasting. Indulge in a delightful lineup of five wines, perfectly paired with handcrafted gourmet marshmallows. Experience the harmonious dance of rosewater with bubbly and raspberry elevating Sparkling Rosé. Scarce varietals, Grenache Blanc and Cinsault, entwine with zesty lime and cherry delights. For a luscious Chenin Blanc, savour the marmalade and honeycomb marshmallow symphony.
While kids enjoy their special box filled with treats, adults can relish this distinctive pairing amidst the tranquil gardens, evoking wistful, playful, and dreamy moments, enhancing the Paarl Wine Route experience.
Graham Beck’s fizz and popcorn fusion
Nestled in the heart of Robertson, the grand Graham Beck Estate stands as a beacon of excellence, renowned for crafting some of the nation's finest Cap Classiques.
Among their exceptional offerings is the indulgent Sparkle and Pop Gourmet Popcorn Pairing – an assortment of four sparkling wines sourced from the Graham Beck Non-Vintage and Vintage Collection, thoughtfully paired with inventive popcorn infusions that celebrate the rich tapestry of South African cuisine.
Flavours range from biltong-dusted, complementing the Pinot Noir Rosé, to beetroot, raspberry and buchu meringue, dancing with the Brut Rosé NV. The yeasty, brioche notes skilfully balance the salty popcorn, creating a delightful harmony with the crunch of the corn and bubbles' effervescence.
Vergenoegd Löw’s indigenous wine indulgence
Nestled amidst the majestic Hottentots Holland and Helderberg Mountains, Vergenoegd Löw stands as a revered three-century-old wine estate, offering an enchanting journey through South African history.
Beyond its awe-inspiring vistas and acclaimed wines, the estate distinguishes itself with an exclusive indigenous wine pairing experience – a sensory exploration set in historical venues or beneath the captivating starlit skies. Guests are graciously invited to indulge in local delicacies such as bokkoms, biltong, sour fig, umazi, and each artfully paired with their exceptional white, red, and Cap Classique wines.
To enhance its allure, Vergenoegd Löw employs 1 000 Indian Runner ducks, creating a charming spectacle for all visitors, particularly the younger ones.
Nectar and nougat at Grand Provence
Nestled on the fringes of Franschhoek, Grande Provence invites visitors on a sensory symphony of palate exploration, saturated in breathtaking scenery. At the heart of this indulgence is the Angel Tears and Nougat pairing – an exquisite dance of handcrafted wines and artisanal nougat.
Lemon and thyme nougat gracefully intertwine with the tropical fruit layers of Angels Tears Sauvignon Blanc, while the honey-infused richness of mango and macadamia nougat finds celestial companionship in their Muscato Chenin Blanc. Cherry and raspberry nougat tempts with the Natural Sweet Rosé, while the Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon, with its upfront red berries and silky tannins, proves to be a decadent partner for cranberry and chocolate nougat. An ethereal journey where every sip and nibble paints a portrait of divine harmony.
Benguela Cove’s charcuterie crescendo
Benguela Cove unfurls as a wine-farm oasis, cradling panoramic views of the Botriver Lagoon and Renostervelt Mountain Range. Indulge your palate in a symphony of flavours, enhanced by an enchantingly beautiful vista. The traditional charcuterie board, an artful assembly of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and mustard, metamorphoses the act of tasting into a culinary symphony. From the effervescent Cuvée58 Cap Classique intertwining with copa ham to the robust Cabernet Sauvignon waltzing with biltong, each pairing embarks on a journey through exquisite tastes.
In the maritime haven of Hermanus, Benguela Cove beckons as the epitome of luxurious escape, offering boat trips, vineyard tours, and the exclusive allure of a lagoon-side wine tasting – an encounter found nowhere else in South Africa.
Le Lude’s bubbles and bite brilliance
Embark on an odyssey of effervescent wonders and culinary splendour at Le Lude's captivating wine tasting room. As you step into this enchanting haven, each sip of their exquisite sparkling wines becomes a gateway to a world of epicurean delight.
Beyond the vibrant Réserve Brut, Brut Rosé, and Réserve Prestige Rosé offerings, Le Lude's curated canapé selections elevate the tasting experience to an art form. From the roasted pear and whipped feta cheese on baguette to the smoked snoek croquette and apple-mustard compote triple chocolate lamington, the peak of this sensory journey is reached with meticulously paired Cap Classique tastings. Each bubble in the glass unfolds a story of craftsmanship, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the extraordinary.
Waterford Estate’s wine and chocolate symphony
Nestled in the captivating Blaauwklippen Valley, Waterford Estate unfolds as a culinary marvel where ancient citrus groves and lavender beds create an enchanting backdrop.
The wine and chocolate pairing beckons – a symphony of flavours choreographed by expert hands. The Waterford Kevin Arnold Shiraz pairs seamlessly with Von Geusau Masala Chai dark chocolate, merging dark fruit and spices. Cabernet Sauvignon entwines with rock salt dark chocolate, enhancing smoothness, and Heatherleigh dessert wine harmonises with rose geranium milk chocolate's floral notes. Here, the chocolate not only complements but also plays a unique role in neutralising the tannins to create a smoother edge and a more refined finish.
This transcendental experience is more than a pairing; it's an exquisite celebration of nature and craftsmanship, an ode to indulgence that lingers in the soul.
Lourensford’s go for gold fusion
Nestled in the embrace of the Helderberg mountains, Lourensford, acclaimed as one of the most beautiful wine estates in the world, sprawls across 4 000 hectares of fynbos, forest, orchards, and vineyards. Home to nine varietals and five distinguished ranges, a Vinfari safari-style tour unveils the secrets of their vineyards and cellars. Among their accolades, the Viognier 2008 and Chardonnay 2008 stand out, the latter earning a spot among the world's top ten Chardonnays.
Indulge in Lourensford's latest offering – the ‘Go for Gold Pairing’ inspired by the South African Springboks. Highlighting Dome Chenin Blanc, Dome Chardonnay, Dome Pinot Noir, and Dome Shiraz, each paired with authentic South African charcuterie delights like dried pears, mixed nuts, biltong, and salami, this tasting experience is a decadent celebration of award-winning wines and the diverse palate of South African culinary heritage.