One of the most spectacular places to visit in Cape Town and a must, if you love wine, is the Stellenbosch Wine Routes, with its vineyards set against the incredible mountain range. This place is known for its range of grape varieties and the exceptional quality of its wines. Let’s take a look at the top Stellenbosch wine farms you have to visit.
Quoin Rock
Quoin Rock sits on the beautiful slopes of Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, making it a great spot for wine lovers to check out. The Quoin Rock Wine Lounge feels pretty special with its mix of wood, stone, and water features, creating a chill vibe that screams the beauty of the Western Cape. When it comes to wines, Quoin Rock doesn’t disappoint. They offer a fantastic tasting experience that really shows off their skill and the quality you’d expect from this region.
Open every day, the Lounge lets you sample a range of wines, from refreshing whites to hearty reds. Each sip takes you on a little adventure through the flavours and smells that make the wines special. If you’re in the mood for something more, they offer picnic setups where you can enjoy a gourmet basket of food matched with your favourite wine out in the vineyards. Whether you know a lot about wine or just enjoy it, Quoin Rock Wine Lounge is a spot that promises a fun and memorable time.
Tokara
Tokara is a must-visit spot on the Helshoogte Pass near Stellenbosch, and it’s become a firm favourite in the South African wine scene. Since opening in the early 2000s, Tokara has been known for producing some fantastic wines. Whether you’re a fan of whites or reds, their offerings are sure to impress with their full flavours and perfect balance. It’s no wonder Tokara has won numerous awards.
But wine isn’t the only thing on the menu. Tokara's restaurant serves up delicious meals that make the most of fresh, local ingredients. They switch up the menu with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try. Plus, the views from the restaurant, overlooking rolling vineyards, are simply stunning and make the dining experience even more special. Besides wine and food, You can check out the art gallery featuring modern pieces or wander through their beautiful gardens. There’s also a delicatessen where you can pick up some gourmet goodies to take home.
Lanzerac Wine Estate
Lanzerac is a gem tucked away in the beautiful Jonkershoek Valley, right in Stellenbosch. With roots going back to 1692, it’s one of the oldest wine farms in the Western Cape, steeped in history. Lanzerac is famous for crafting the world’s first bottled Pinotage, a wine that’s won fans all over. When you visit, you’ll step into a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern flair, all while sipping on some top-notch wines. But Lanzerac isn’t just about its wine; it’s got so much more to offer. There’s a luxurious hotel on the estate with rooms that boast stunning views and all the cosy comforts you could want.
Dining is a treat here, with restaurants serving dishes inspired by local tastes, paired perfectly with their wines. If unwinding is on your agenda, the Lanzerac Spa is the place to be, offering a range of relaxing treatments. Lanzerac Wine Estate merges tradition with a modern touch, making it a standout stop for anyone exploring Stellenbosch’s top wine farms in 2024. Its dedication to quality and its rich heritage make it a memorable spot that’s definitely worth a visit.
Rust en Vrede
Rust en Vrede Wine Estate is not just a vineyard. It has a history spanning over 300 years, dating back to its establishment in 1694, Rust en Vrede holds the title of the top-recommended vineyard in the region. Its charming Cape Dutch buildings, dating back to 1780 and proudly designated as National Monuments, add to its charm. In 1977, Rust en Vrede saw a new chapter unfold when Jannie and Ellen, the current owner’s parents, took over the estate. Their passion for restoration and their focus on cultivating grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot have been integral to the vineyard’s success. Today, Rust en Vrede is renowned for its specialization in red wines, thanks to its unique microclimate and elevated location.
Visitors are invited to treat themselves to the Rust en Vrede experience, with wine tastings available every day and informal tours of the cellar. The Rust en Vrede Restaurant offers a laid-back yet sophisticated setting where tasty food is paired perfectly with its exceptional wines. For those seeking a more intimate connection with Rust en Vrede, joining the Wine Club opens doors to exclusive releases and dining opportunities.
Kleine Zalze
Kleine Zalze holds a commitment to crafting premium wines while offering visitors a perfect winelands experience. Central to Kleine Zalze’s philosophy is to put extra effort into maintaining its vineyards, where specific varieties and clones are carefully chosen to thrive in the unique soils and slopes, resulting in wines of exceptional quality. From its Cellar Selection to its Cap Classique, Kleine Zalze boasts an impressive variety of award-winning wines, each showing the estate’s dedication to excellence. But Kleine Zalze isn’t just about wine; it’s an all-in-one destination. Led by chef Nic van Wyk, the Kleine Zalze Restaurant serves up authentic dishes.
For those eager to indulge in all the estate has to offer, Kleine Zalze has a wide range of wine-tasting experiences, ranging from tastings of their renowned Cap Classique to curated combinations of their wine ranges. Kleine Zalze warmly welcomes guests to enjoy themselves in the beauty of the Winelands, promising an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts.
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