As we head back into the adjusted level 1 restrictions and with summer holidays on the cusp we see a rapid increase in many consumers heading out to visit wineries. With that said here are a few wine experiences you simply must try.
8. Waterford's taste journey
Waterford Estate is situated in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley, in the world-renowned Stellenbosch region. Unique wine experiences are the order of the day at Waterford. At R125 per person, the Taste Journey does just what it says by pairing gourmet morsels of food with their Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and the Grenache noir respectively. if you're a history novice perhaps the Library collection is for you.
The Library Collection priced at R295 per person, takes a look back at the story of where their wine style comes from. The wines are experimentation level wines, and essentially the development of various Library Collection wines is how the Jem came into being.
7. Graham Beck's popcorn and MCC tasting
Renowned for their award-winning MCC, Graham Beck offers a popcorn and MCC tasting that displays a decadent combination of textures, colours and flavours perfectly complementing their Sparkling wines. The selection of bubbly is a showcase from the Graham Beck Non-Vintage and Vintage Collection to highlight the best of the range.
The Sparkle & Pop Tasting is available at R150 per person. Graham Beck's tasting room is situated along the scenic Cape Route R60 in Robertson.
For bookings contact the Graham Beck Tasting Room via email at tastingroom@grahambeck.com or call 023 626 1214 to reserve your seat 24 hours in advance. Limited portions will be available daily for walk-in guests.
6. Bellevue's slider and wine pairing
Feeling a tad peckish?
Bellevue Wine Estate's slider and wine pairings are the perfect bite-sized tasting choice if you're after a taste of a little bit of everything.
Options like the Lamb and tzatziki slider paired with the Bellevue Sauvignon Blanc, or a pork slider paired with the Bellevue Atticus, and last but not least, a beef brisket slider paired with the Bellevue Shiraz. Try this pairing for only R130 per person. Available every weekend.
You will find Bellevue Estate along Bottelary Road, Koelenhof in Stellenbosch.
5. Neethlingshof's flash food, slow wine pairing
Neethlingshof Estate lies just outside of the beautiful town of Stellenbosch in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
Offering you the opportunity to enjoy their Flash Food, Slow Wine Pairing, Neethlingshof has carefully crafted bite-sized portions of fast food with a twist to match each wine.
This tasting Includes 5 bite sized dishes paired with 5 wines and costs R140 per person.
To ensure availability booking is essential. For more information contact 021 883 8988.
4. JC Le Roux's bubbly pairings
JC Le Roux has a wonderful array of pairings to choose from such as the bubbly and nougat/cheesecake pairing or perhaps you fancy something savoury to fill up on then the bubbly and pizza pairing goes down a treat. Pairing options vary from R100 - R145 per person.
It is recommended to book in advance. J.C. Le Roux is situated at the very end of Devon Valley Road in Stellenbosch. Enquire HERE to book your spot.
3. Spier's heritage food and wine pairing
Situated near Stellenbosch, Spier has a fascinating history and a legacy that the owners never take for granted. Heritage is at the heart of this farm's culture yet embracing modernity through their exciting wine and food pairings. Celebrate South African heritage by treating yourself to Spier's Heritage Wine and Tasting platter. The 4 wines from the award-winning 21 Gables range, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage, can be enjoyed with 9 delicious, expertly crafted nibbles that reflect our South African heritage.
The heritage pairing is available at the tasting room at R185 per person and runs daily until the 31 October 2021.
2. Delheim wine and fynbos cupcake pairing
A renowned wine destination in the Winelands, Delheim is situated in the lush forest below the Simonsberg mountains. A next-level experience with an all-new twist that puts the Cape’s famous Floral Kingdom and Delheim’s eco-friendly winemaking front-and-centre. This latest addition employs an entirely new range of fynbos-inspired cupcakes to showcase the excellence of Delheim wines. This tasting experience includes four fynbos infused cupcakes paired with four award-winning wines.
The wine and fynbos cupcake pairing runs from Monday - Sunday from 11:30 - 15:00. Bookings are encouraged and can be made HERE.
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1. Nederburg's Five Senses food and wine pairing
Nederburg in Paarl is one of South Africa's most awarded wineries with a prize-winning pedigree that stems from a culture of innovation and disciplined attention to detail. Stepping away from the norm, Nederburg's innovative new Five Senses food and wine pairing is a sensory experience not to be missed. Taste your way through a 3-course canapé-style food and wine pairing, first blind-folded, and then sighted. Adding an extra dimension to the experience, the second and third courses are presented not only unseen, but also with the addition of evocative sounds, creating a truly emotive and personal experience where your imagination is allowed free rein.
The Five Senses experience is available at R500 per person from 11h:00 and 15h00 every day except Tuesdays. Pre-booking is essential. For more information or to book, contact info@nederburg.com, or alternatively call 021 863 2104
The Winelands certainly has its fair share of award-winning wineries to choose from. We guarantee there is something for all tastes. Make a day of it and tick these top 10 tastings off of your list this summer!