For the Love of the Vine
It’s been evident over the years, to the discerning buds of a wine connoisseur that the Cape is one of the most revered destinations in the world, for its grapes. Alongside all of her other alluring attributes, Cape Town and the surrounding regions has a reputation for producing world-class, award-winning wines, that are served in some of the most scenic spots in the Western Cape. Concurred by a few of the bigwigs in publication – including The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveller – Cape Town is continuously acknowledged for its vintages. An impressive portfolio of homegrown winemakers has been established, as they authentically produce a fusion of proficiency, heritage, flavour and passion.
As it is our desire to ensure our guests’ travel experiences include all of the delectable delights that the Cape has to offer, we’ve collated a list of some of the country’s finest wine estates, that are set in some of the most spectacular surroundings. From an innovative and profound Pinotage to a classical, robust Shiraz. A smooth, sophisticated chardonnay to a fizzy, crisp Méthod Cap Classique. We’re adding to the the aim of the game when it comes to travel and tranquil holidays, and encouraging you to head out and sample the splendour of the Cape’s grapes. Whether you’re exploring the city’s suburban vines or driving through the mountainous countryside, there’s an abundance of fine wine to taste.
Here is our pluck of the Vines…
Cape Point Vineyards – Set against the slopes of the mountain and looking all the way out to sea, this family-owned estate – just a short drive away from NIMANO – harnesses its unique terroir to produce a complex collection of young vintages.
Groot Constantia – Crafting wines since 1685, this beautiful estate in Constantia is the oldest working winery in the country.
Beau Constantia – A boutique winery situated at the top of Constantia Nek, overlooking the neighbouring vineyards and all the way out to the blue of False Bay.
Eagles’ Nest – With its unique terroir within the Constantia valley, and its east, west and north facing slopes, Eagles’ Nest is the steepest commercially farmed land in the Cape region, producing world-class red wines.
Steenberg – Dating back to 1682, Steenberg is steeped in history and boasts some of the finest Sauvignon Blanc in the country.
Babylonstoren – Few places like Babylonstoren exist on Earth. A place where the grapes, the gardens, the feasting tables, the mountains, the chickens and the donkeys all evoke a sense of prosperity.
Vergelegen – Meandering an estate of ancient oaks, rivers, gardens, galleries and farmland, on a homestead that dates back more than 300 years, is something to ponder.
Waterford Estate – Situated in the Blaauwklippen Valley on the rolling slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, this Stellenbosch estate produces some truly distinguished wines.
Boekenhoutskloof Winery – One of the oldest wineries in the Franschhoek valley, this estate invites you to sip from carafes of chocolate block, by appointment only.
La Motte – It’s the food, the historical charm, the old farm shop, the museum, the views and the walks that come with the wine.