This blog is about the wine tour I completed in December 2023, for my upcoming YouTube Channel called "Indian Wine Traveller" where I visited 32 wine estates, and met many people from the wine industry.
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List of wineries I visited.
- A. A Badenhorst wines
- Perdeberg wines
- Saronsberg wines
- Mitre's Edge wine estate
- Villiera wines
- Spier wines
- Landskroon wines
- Simondium Guild (painted wolf)
- Le petite Ferme
- La Motte wine farm
- Holden Manz
- Leeu Passant wines
- Le Pommier wines
- Alluvia Boutique wines
- Lothian vineyards
- Idiom wines
- Lorensford wines
- Klein Zalze wines
- Zorgvliet wine estate
- Stark conde wines
- Lanzerac wines
- Waterford winery
- Rust en verd wines
- Ernie Els wines
- Ataraxia wines
- Creation wines
- Strandveld winery
- Hamilton Russel wines
- Esona Boutique wine estate
- Joubert Tradauw winery
- Baleia wines
- Klien Constantia
Add - Jakkalsfontein Road, Malmesbury, 7300, South Africa
About -
AA Badenhorst Family Wines are grown, made, and matured on Kalmoesfontein farm in the Swartland appellation of South Africa. 180ha of old bush vines grow in the Siebritskloof part of the Paardeberg mountain.
The property is owned by the dynamic and good-looking cousins Hein and Adi Badenhorst. They are originally from Constantia. Their grandfather was the farm manager of Groot Constantia for 46 years. Their fathers were born there and farmed together in Constantia, during the days when people still ate fresh vegetables and Hanepoot grapes, drank Cinsault and there were a lot fewer traffic lights and hippies still had a presence. Together these two have restored a neglected cellar on the farm that was last used in the 1930′s to make natural wines traditionally.
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Add - Vryguns Farm Windmeul, Paarl, 7624, South Africa
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Situated at the foothills of the Paardeberg Mountain in Paarl, one of the finest wine-growing areas of the Cape, lies Perdeberg Cellar. The hallmark and most differentiating quality of Perdeberg wines is their predominant use of unirrigated vineyards, termed dry land vines. Overcoming difficult growing conditions, dry land vines yield small berries. The winery’s rich history dates back to 1941 when a visionary wine farmer named Jan Rossouw suggested the area’s farmers begin producing their own wine. Perdeberg adopted its distinguishing name from the scores of Cape Mountain zebras that once roamed the Paardeberg area, mistaken for wild horses by local inhabitants.
With a vineyard span of over 3000 hectares, mainly in the Paarl and Swartland regions, Perdeberg benefits from different microclimates and various soil types. The natural variation of weather, soil, drainage, and altitude from vineyard to vineyard enables them to produce a wide range of wines with distinct qualities and character. In the cellar, our wines are created through the synergy of art, intuition, and science to reveal the best of what has been brought in from the vineyards.
Situated in the fertile Agter-Paarl area, between Malmesbury and Durbanville, Perdeberg is in a fortunate position to maximize the opportunities to create diverse wines this unique landscape presents.
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Add - Waveren Road, Tulbagh, 6820, South Africa
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At the center of the cellar complex is the avant-garde tasting room – an austere interior combining notions of space and light that plays home to the Saronsberg Collection, a permanent installment of contemporary South African art that suggests an underlying respect for creative expression and unconventional thinking. The gallery includes works by notable local artists such as Paul du Toit, creator of a distinctive piece that hangs above the large tasting room fireplace and – in a smaller form – decorates the bottles of Saronsberg’s “Provenance” range of wines.
To one side of the tasting room stands the winery’s cutting-edge fermentation cellar, and to the other side, one can peer into the traditional wood maturation cellar. Expansive glass panels afford a view of operations in both these areas.
Accommodation features a collection of tastefully renovated and well-equipped self-catering cottages. Each cottage boasts an en-suite bathroom, a spacious kitchen, a welcoming lounge, and a dining area. For added comfort and ambiance, all 16 cottages are equipped with fireplaces and braai facilities, ensuring delightful stays throughout the year.
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Add - R44, Klapmuts, Stellenbosch, 7625, South Africa
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Family-owned and managed boutique winery, Mitre’s Edge, is nestled at the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain, between Paarl and Stellenbosch. It is in this beautiful setting that winemaker Lola Nicholls, assisted by her husband Bernard, focuses on producing relatively smaller quantities of high-quality, award-winning wines.
In 1999 Bernard and Lola took over the farm from Lola’s father, Martin Hunting, who had farmed there since 1969. Bernard threw caution to the wind and changed his career from mechanical engineer to wine farmer.
Lola’s passion for Bordeaux wines led to the replanting of the old Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards with newer clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Shiraz was also planted, and to complement their wine list with white wines, some Chenin Blanc and Viognier vines were also planted.
They have few stay options we stayed at their vineyard studio.
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Add - Cnr R304 & R101 Koelenhof Near, Stellenbosch, 7605, South Africa
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The Villiera vineyards have been run by Simon Grier since 1983 (ably assisted by vineyard managers Christie Franse and Wayne Daniels) and are approximately 170 hectares in extent. Yields are a conservative 8 tons per hectare to ensure fruit quality. The varieties planted in the vineyards are 50% red and 50% white. The wines produced are 40% Cap Classique, 30% red, and 30% white. The new pruning techniques taught to the pruning team by Italian company Simonit and Sirch have greatly improved the productivity of the vineyard team and the uniformity, longevity, and quality of the vines.
Villiera is a certified member of the Old Vine Project and the vineyards are IPW certified. To gain more insight into their environmental practices view their Back Label Stories.
Their chief brand relates to the property name which is named after the original owners – the de Villiers family. Their single-varietal wines all fall under the VILLIERA Brand with no sub-brand. These include a range of white wines, a range of red wines, and one Cap Classique (Their additive-free Brut Natural – Chardonnay).
illiera embarked on an international venture in 2006 when they invested in a small vineyard in the Roussillon region in the South of France. They acquired a 22-hectare vineyard and cellar near the town of St Paul de Fenouillet. Varieties planted include Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Maccabeu, and Chardonnay. The range from Domaine Grier reflects both classic and modern styles, adding a new dimension to Villiera’s offering of superb wines.
Villiera also offers a very interesting game drive (safari). Together with two neighbours, Villiera set aside 230 Ha of land to form a Wildlife Sanctuary for the game. These conservation efforts take place alongside a determined indigenous tree-planting project. Over 100,000 indigenous trees have been planted to green fallow land and to mitigate their carbon footprint.
The Sanctuary includes 12 dams plus marsh areas which attract a huge variety of bird life. Indigenous trees are grown in old milk containers, plastic water bottles etc. by our staff and then bought from them when a year old and planted out. Thousands of indigenous trees have also been donated by the Cape Garden Centre.
Several mammals have been introduced in the Wildlife Sanctuary:
Springbuck, Kudu, Giraffe, Bontebok, Eland, Gemsbok, Black Wildebeest, Bush Pig, Burchell’s Zebra, common Duiker, Steenbuck, Waterbuck, Grysbok and Giraffe.
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Add - Spier Wine Farm R310, Baden Powell Dr, Lynedoch, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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Since the family took the reins in 1993, Spier has been a place where the past is honoured, and the future is embraced with equal passion. Their Stellenbosch wine farm has a long and winding history which remains connected to their past, with all its complexities, and moves forward with a spirit of regeneration in everything we do. Regenerative farming and pioneering environmental and social initiatives. Their label is a symbol for top terroir-driven wines, and we’ve been named South African Producer of the Year by the International Wine & Spirit Competition - twice! Their passion for winemaking is matched by our love of growing and making good food. Most of what you’ll eat in our restaurants and hotel is homegrown or sourced nearby. Stay and enjoy it all. Spier Hotel is about restfulness, with a river running through it and an inspiring collection of contemporary South African art. Nature is in charge here, and you can feel it.
The Spier Hotel, on their history-rich Stellenbosch wine farm, makes a brilliant family-friendly base to explore the Cape Winelands. Spier ranks in the Top 100 Vineyards in the world, and it’s also home to one of South Africa's largest contemporary art collections. Life feels good here. Superb eateries. Beautiful wines. Loads to see and do. The quaint village-style hotel strikes a balance between easy-going but attentive hospitality. Their 80 rooms are clustered around six courtyards, each with its own peaceful garden and pool, close to the Eerste River.
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Visit no. 7 - Landskroon winesAdd - Suid-Agter-Paarl Rd, Southern Paarl, Paarl, 7624, South Africa
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On the southwestern slopes of the iconic Paarl Mountain lies the beautiful Landskroon Wine Estate. Five generations of passionate winemakers have contributed to making Landskroon one of Paarl’s leading wine brands. The current cellarmaster, Paul de Villiers, proudly continues this heritage as the 5th generation of the family at Landskroon. Paul runs the estate with his brother, Hugo, and cousins, Madelief and Huguette. The wealth of winemaking skill that has been passed down in the De Villiers family has developed Landskroon’s reputation as a brand known for its premium white and red wines, Blanc de Noir, and Cape Vintage – the estate’s excellent Port-style wine.
Visitors to Landskroon are well rewarded with a stunning view over the vineyards and the farm towards Table Mountain. Enjoy the view with one of our 2 food-and-wine pairings, with a cheese platter or by bringing your own picnic. Relax and unwind in the comfort of your own exclusive cottage under the oak trees where we stayed. Our secure self-catering cottage is elegantly furnished, fully equipped, and serviced daily for guests’ convenience. Experience the pleasure of staying on a wine farm and soaking up the beauty of the surrounding views. grown in old milk containers, plastic water bottles etc. by Their staff and then bought from them when a year old and planted out. Thousands of indigenous trees have also been donated by the Cape Garden Centre.
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Visit no. 8 - Simondium Guild (painted wolf)Google maps location.
Add - Guild, Simondium Guild, R45, R45 Klapmuts - Simondium Rd, Simondium, 7670, South Africa
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In 2006, Emma and Jeremy Borg decided to create a wine company with two main aims – to raise money to build a more hopeful future for endangered African wild dogs and to allow Jeremy to pursue his ambitions as a winemaker, which he has done with great determination and flair.
Creating the company involved many wonderful collaborations with friends from all walks of life, and over the years, with the help of these exceptional people, Painted Wolf Wines has grown to become a leading producer of award-winning wines. We now have three distinctive and memorable ranges, are never afraid to try something a little bit off the beaten track and have raised around R3.5 million and a further considerable sum for social upliftment projects.
Soon you should see their wines in India, especially in Mumbai.
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Visit no. 9 - Le petite Ferme
Google maps location
Add - Pass Road, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa
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La Petite Ferme, situated in Franschhoek, is arguably the most historic, beautiful and captivating town in the Cape Winelands. A destination for all local and international guests, offering award-winning cuisine, wines and accommodation. La Petite Ferme promises each guest an unforgettable experience. Just an hour’s drive from Cape Town you will find the unique tranquillity, luxury and warmth of La Petite Ferme. A destination for all local and international guests, offering award-winning cuisine, wines and accommodation.
We stayed at their hotel, At La Petite Ferme each guest is offered the perfect combination of private, traditional country-style luxury accommodation and heart-warming hospitality. Their suites each boast a spectacular view and comfort.
A terroir that is famous for the subtlety yet full flavour that it delivers through each different cultivar. They are a small and intimate boutique-style cellar. The winery offers a full range of exceptional quality wines.
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Add - R45, Franschhoek, 7691, South Africa
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La Motte was acquired in 1970 by the late Dr. Anton Rupert, an internationally respected industrialist who established a global business empire, and was held in high regard as a committed conservationist. Dr. Rupert and his art-devoted wife, Huberte, also played an immense role in the preservation of art.
La Motte is one of three wine estates owned by the Rupert family. Hanneli’s brother, Johann Rupert, owns L’Ormarins, formerly owned by the younger brother, Anthonij, who tragically died in a car accident in 2001. Hanneli and Johann are in partnership with the De Rothschild family of France, producing wines on the Fredericksburg farm under the Rupert & Rothschild label.
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Add - Green Valley Rd, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa
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Located in the top, southern-most corner of the Franschhoek Valley, in the embrace of its spectacular mountains, the 22-hectare Holden Manz Wine Estate is situated between the Franschhoek River and Stony Brook at 300 meters above sea level. An exclusive grower of red grapes, the Estate only cultivates its top 16 hectares under vineyards, notably Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot. Long, cold and wet winters allow the vines to rest well, while hot dry summers and a gentle autumn allow for slow ripening. Featuring a rich and diverse terroir influenced by its unique natural surroundings, with 3 different soil types and a marked seasonal climate, the estate’s vineyards are perfectly suited to our intention – the production of ultra-premium wines made for the discerning wine connoisseur.
Sheltered next to our Franschhoek Kitchen and tasting venue, the Holden Manz Winery features state-of-the-art design which enables our winemaker to fully express the terroir and its fruits in every possible way. With average production sitting at 100 tonnes of manually harvested, high-quality grapes, an intimate approach with emphasis on ‘attention to detail’ is maintained throughout. Smaller tanks allow for separate, small-batch fermentations, while an open-plan barrel cellar provides our winemaker the access to tend to each barrel individually.
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Add - Leeu Estates Dassenberg Road Franschhoek, Cape Town, 7690, South Africa
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Mullineux was established in 2007, when Chris and Andrea Mullineux settled in the Swartland wine region, 60 kilometers north of Cape Town. Within a very short period, the winery established itself as one of South Africa’s most celebrated wine brands, both locally and on the international front. By 2020 the winery had received thirty 5-star ratings from Platter’s South African Wine Guide, as well as being awarded Platter’s Winery of the Year an unprecedented 4 times in 2014, 2016, 2019, and 2020.
In addition, Andrea was named Wine Enthusiast’s 2016 International Winemaker of the Year and in 2016 Chris & Andrea were Tim Atkin’s South African Winemakers of the Year.
In 2013 Chris & Andrea joined forces with Analjit Singh. Together with founding partner Peter Dart, they started a parallel winery in Franschhoek called Leeu Passant. The Leeu Passant winery is located in Leeu Estates, which also is the home of Analjit’s hospitality portfolio, the Leeu Collection.
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Google maps location
Add - Helshoogte Rd, Banhoek, Stellenbosch, 7609, South Africa
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Le Pommier Wines is a boutique estate that makes limited wines. They offer one of the best accommodations. Le Pommier is an intimate country lodge situated in the Cape Winelands. There are 6 suites, 7 country rooms, and 2 self-catering units in typical luxury country house style and comfort. The ideal setting for relaxation, the lodge is situated in a tranquil environment amongst the vineyards of the Western Cape.
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Google maps location
Add - Glen Arum Road, Helshoogte Rd, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch, 7612, South Africa
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Tucked away in a picturesque valley and surrounded by spectacular mountains Ideally located between the highly regarded wine regions of Stellenbosch the Cape and Franschhoek, Alluvia offers luxury accommodation, a bistro-style restaurant, a wine tastings lounge, and a tranquil spa. Immerse yourself in serenity and get ready to raise a glass to the good life.
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Visit no. 15 - Lothian vineyards
Google maps location
Add - Rockview Dam Rd, Grabouw, 7160, South Africa
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Lothian Vineyards and House is a luxurious architectural masterpiece in a class of its own, bordered by the meandering Palmiet River and its own private lake in the magical Cape Winelands. The design allows for absolute privacy and impeccable indulgence.
Distinguished by nature and building on a heritage from both Scotland and the Cape Winelands, Lothian House is a tranquil retreat for all ages and caters in detail for every need.
Working in harmony with nature, the integrity of the fruit and its clonal characteristics are maintained, ensuring we craft elegant and exquisite award-winning complex wines such as our Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling that reflect the unique climate and terroir of Lothian’s vineyards.
This countryside architectural wonder boasts uninterrupted views with endless vistas of Lothian’s vineyards, orchards, the private Applethwaite Lake, Palmiet River and the mesmerising Elgin valley mountain-scape.
This breath-taking house is both a relaxing family retreat as well as a decadent escape for anyone looking for an exceptional Cape vineyard experience. The beauty of Lothian House is a balance of contemporary design and welcoming space for both adults and children.
Originally from Scotland and hailing from three generations of Cape winemakers, the Wilson family grew up on their grandmother’s Rust en Vrede vineyard in the 1950s and 60s. Raised with a dedication to excellence, one can see Gavin and Ewen’s values reflected in their authentic and traditionalist approach to Burgundian-style winemaking and their choice of winemaker, Richard Kershaw who is a world renowned Master of Wine.
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Visit no. 16 - Idiom wines
Google maps location
Add - Idiom Restaurant & Idiom Wine at Da Capo Vineyards Old Sir Lowrys Pass Road, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130, South Africa
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Idiom Wines is based in the heart of the Helderberg range. This southernmost part of the Stellenbosch wine region provides the backdrop and the perfect climatic conditions for the incredible range of wines. A celebration of terroir, unusual varietals, and masterful blends, Idiom is so-called because it is home to the Cape expression of so many European classics. The Cape Idiom, if you will.
The Idiom Wines restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday until 5pm for breakfast and lunch. We invite you to take a scenic drive through our vineyards up to Idiom to enjoy a delicious gourmet meal overlooking the beautiful False Bay peninsula.
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Add - Helderberg Rural, Cape Town, 7135, South Africa
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About Lourensford Estate. As one of the world’s most beautiful wine estates, we offer a visual feast across 4,000 hectares of forest, fynbos, fruit orchards, and vineyards, which rise up the slopes of the Helderberg Mountains, caressed by breezes off the Atlantic Ocean.
Established by Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel in 1709, Lourensford has a proud history as a world-class fruit farm, and the wealth of glorious Proteas point to our rich floral heritage. Fortunately, the winemaking tradition was revived when well-known Cape businessman, Dr Christo Wiese purchased the Estate in 1998.
The scenic splendor, winery, restaurant, coffee roastery, art gallery, outdoor markets, and music concerts, as well as cycling and trail-running events, ensure we are a popular tourist destination. No wonder our working farm is as popular with the public as it is with honey bees!
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Add - Strand Rd, De Zalze Golf Estate, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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Kleine Zalze is an award-winning winery situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands, just two miles from Stellenbosch. Winemaking has taken place on their estate on a small scale since 1695 but it was in 1996, when Kobus Basson and his family purchased the property, that the modern Kleine Zalze was born.
Their philosophy is simple: success begins in the vineyards. Exceptional wines are made possible by selecting varieties and clones specifically suited to the various soils and slopes, and further careful management of the farm’s extensive natural assets.
This continuous attention to detail culminated in Kleine Zalze achieving new heights in 2020 and being named Top Performing Winery of the Year by Platter’s South African Wine Guide, arguably the most comprehensive guide to South African wine in the world.
More recently, Kleine Zalze won four Double Golds and the Best Achiever award at the highly acclaimed Veritas Awards 2022.
The Kleine Zalze Restaurant, under the helm of chef Nic van Wyk, focuses on timeless, honest, generous, and authentic cooking. The Taste, Explore, Relax offers you not only a selection of new dishes but also the choice of the portion size that you would like to enjoy. Taste – think tapas, Explore – similar to a starter or light lunch, and Relax – a traditional main course.
Add - Helshoogte Rd, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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In summary, Zorgvliet Wines offers a delightful array of experiences, from fine dining at De Herenhuis Restaurant, Banghoek Restaurant, and De Vliet Country Bistro, to outdoor picnics at Grapes and Greens picnics, and wine tastings that showcase the best of their vineyard. With luxurious accommodation at the Country Lodge and the option of hosting weddings and functions, Zorgvliet is a destination that caters to every need. Come and discover the magic of Zorgvliet Wines in the enchanting Winelands.
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Add - Oude Nektar Farm Jonkershoek Valley, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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Stark-Condé is a union of family names. “Stark” plays tribute to Hans’ mother Franziska Stark. Best remembered for her fierce independence and insatiable curiosity, she was the first of the family to settle in Stellenbosch. “Conde” is a salute to Jose’s father, a Cuban émigré to the United States. Jose attributes his love of craft and work ethic to his father, who left Cuba as a young man to embrace challenges in a new country.
Jonkershoek Valley is a pristine valley uniquely situated for growing Cabernet. With its high-elevation terrain, ample winter rainfalls, and the cleansing Southeaster breeze that blows through the valley, this area has perfect conditions for the production of premium grapes. The Stark-Condé vineyards are farmed organically and 80% of the estate remains rugged virgin terrain. The flora mirrors the rich biodiversity of the neighboring Jonkershoek National Park, which has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site for its fynbos biome.
Winemaking is kept as simple and natural as possible. The pressed juice is fermented with natural yeasts in open-top tanks, with manual punch-downs around the clock. The red wines are then aged up to 22 months in French oak barrels and are bottled in most instances without fining or filtration. With a limited production of just over 8000 cases, Stark-Condé remains committed to producing hand-crafted premium wines.
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Add - Lanzerac Wine Estate, Lanzerac Rd, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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Steeped in history dating back to 1692, Lanzerac Wine Estate is a historic landmark and Stellenbosch icon. The grande dame is synonymous with old-world charm and rich Cape heritage. Positioned in the idyllic Jonkershoek Valley on the outskirts of the historical town of Stellenbosch, the Estate boasts views of dramatic mountain ranges, endless rows of lush vineyards, and hectares of gardens shaded by giant Oak trees.
The homestead was transformed into a manor house in 1959 – reminiscent of the traditional French way of fusing a country hotel and wine estate. Today the iconic property hosts an elegant five-star Country hotel, acclaimed bars, restaurants, and Deli, a remarkable tasting venue, and a chic day spa.
Lanzerac is steeped in spellbinding history, having been established in 1692 – a mere 13 years after Stellenbosch itself and is the third oldest farm in the area. The first owner was Isaac Schrijver who planted the very first vineyards and, unsurprisingly, named the farm Schoongezicht, meaning wonderful view. In the early 1800’s the first cellar was erected and subsequently complemented by the iconic Manor House, which exhibits an unusually high level of sophistication for Cape Dutch architecture of the period with its main gable dating back to 1830.
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The estate has been operating since 1998 and is proudly owned by the Ord family. The name Waterford is a combination of the Ord surname as well as the waterfalls from the mountains that surround the estate (WATERF + ORD). The idea was given by the oldest daughter, Ashleigh Ord.
Waterford Estate can be found in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley situated within the world-renowned Stellenbosch region in South Africa. This is one of the areas in the world where blue skies blend down onto majestic valley slopes which in turn flow to vibrant and expertly tended rows of healthy vines.
Upon entering Waterford Estate, you’ll be struck by the natural beauty of our wine farm which is reflected in each of our wines. Spend the day leisurely sipping on one of their distinguished wines, surrounded by the undisturbed views of the Helderberg mountain. With the wine cellar built surrounding the courtyard, you’ll be able to observe the workings of the winery and get a true feel for the winemaking process.
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Add - Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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Rust en Vrede Estate lies south of Stellenbosch, approximately 15km from False Bay. The property is nestled on the lower slopes of Helderberg Mountain between 85m and 130m above sea level, with a view of Table Mountain to the West. Vineyards are situated on north-facing slopes, with a small portion of northeast and northwest-facing slopes that provide subtle nuances in aspect. Shielded from the powerful South-Easterly wind by the Helderberg and Stellenbosch mountains, and protected from the South-Westerly wind off the Atlantic by the foothills of the Helderberg, Rust en Vrede is a warmer microcosm in the Helderberg area, which is why we specialize in reds, particularly Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. These varieties lend themselves to full-bodied wines with powerful structure and excellent aging potential.
Their focus on Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah allows us to produce the highest quality, full-bodied wines that reflect our Stellenbosch terroir. All our wines are Estate grown, made and bottled
Since opening in 2007, the Rust en Vrede Restaurant has shaped the way we think about wine and food. Set in the historic cellar, our aim is to show guests how a dining experience can be heightened by the combination of outstanding wine with excellent food.
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Add - Annandale Rd, Stellenbosch NU, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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Thoughtfully Selected For Its Prime Position, Ernie Els Winery Is Framed By Panoramic Views Of Cape Town And Table Mountain To The West And Stellenbosch And The Helderberg Mountains To The East. A Passage Beyond Our Grand Granite Boulders, And Through Our Wooden Farmhouse-Style Doors Will Lead You Into Our Homely, Expansive Tasting Room And Restaurant Where You Will Be Rewarded With Exceptional Wines And Hearty Farm-Style Cuisine.
The winery was officially opened in 2005, and since then, the focus has been on producing a range of wines, with a particular focus on Cabernet Sauvignon. Recent renovations have transformed the winery into an iconic symbol of the Helderberg region.
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Add - The Skyfields Farm, Hemel-en-Aarde Road, Hermanus, 7200, South Africa
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Hemel-en-Aarde is Afrikaans for “heaven and earth” and the claim is justified. Our estate sits on a particularly heavenly stretch of land beneath a lofty peak of Babylon’s Tower mountain range. In addition to its unrelenting beauty, Ataraxia is home to some of the most spectacular terroirs South Africa has to offer.
In 2004, The Skyfields Farm was visioned into the Ataraxia wine label when husband and wife, Kevin and Hanli Grant and a few friends purchased this 47-hectare prime vineyard property.
Almost two decades on, we are associated with crafting wines of incredible finesse, balance, and depth; wines that proudly hold their own on the international wine stage.
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Add - Hemel & Aarde Rd R320, Hermanus, 7200, South Africa
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Welcome to Creation in the South African Wine Region of Walker Bay. Ancient clay-loam soils and cool maritime conditions contribute to the creation of our award-winning Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Cellarmaster Jean-Claude Martin’s winemaking philosophy of ‘enhancing the beauty of nature’ embraces sustainability, both in our virus-free vineyards and contemporary cellar. Wholesome eating options matter to our valued guests. By lovingly pairing our cool-climate wines with the freshest of produce sourced from our local farmers and fisherfolk, we take pleasure in offering you the ultimate sensorial experience. Creation is situated on the scenic Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. It is a little piece of paradise where family and friends meet to celebrate world-class wines, creative cuisine, fine art, nature’s bounty – and each other!
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Add - DIE DAMME ROAD Elim, Bredasdorp, 7280, South Africa
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South Africa's southernmost winery. This wind-swept winery derives its name from the belt of land that spans the tempestuous tip of Africa’s southernmost coastline. At almost 35 degrees below the equator, this part of our fair Cape is characterized by severe winds, billowing mist, and below-average temperatures. A unique combination of maritime climate, alternating sites, and diverse soil types work together to create the terroir that distinguishes the wines of Strandveld Vineyards.
Today we have 80 hectares of vineyard which due to the terroir is focused on Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir with smaller plantings of Semillon, Viognier, Grenache, and Mourvedre for blending. All the wine is produced in the modern cellar on the farm.
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Add - Hemel en Aarde Rd, Hermanus, 7200, South Africa
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One of the most southerly wine Estates in Africa, this Pinot noir and Chardonnay specialist pioneered viticulture in the beautiful, cool, maritime, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation behind the old fishing village of Hermanus.
Ashbourne - The property is named after Anthony’s great, great grandfather Lord Ashbourne who was Lord Chancellor of Ireland in the late 1800’s. Located in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, on a beautiful property on the eastern border of Hamilton Russell Vineyards, this small Pinotage and Sauvignon blanc-based blend specialist has developed a reputation for innovative, highly individual, classically styled, and age-worthy blends. They are particularly proud of our soil and site-specific maritime white blend, Ashbourne Sandstone. It is the first South African wine to be fermented and aged in amphorae and remains one of the most individual, layered, and complex white blends we know while retaining an elegance, minerality, and lightness of step making it so seafood-friendly.
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Add - Route R317 between Robertson and, Bonnievale, Robertson, 6705, South Africa
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Our certified single vineyards are in the heart of the beautiful Robertson Valley alongside the Breede River in the Western Cape, South Africa. The vineyards are positioned in sandy silt soil, ideal for cultivating our premium wines. The upper soil is deep loam enriched with lime. The Bonnievale canal system meanders through the farm and separates these extreme soils, resulting in the diversity of earth types. The vines are planted north to south, enabling them to receive all-day sun, while the south winds from the coast 150km away help to cool the vineyards during the hot summers.
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Add - Tradouw Valley, R62, Barrydale, 6750, South Africa.
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Joubert-Tradauw is a family-owned private cellar in the Tradouw Valley in the Klein Karoo/Little Karoo region on the famous R62 route. The farm is located just outside the picturesque village of Barrydale. Life around here is mainly about two things: the fruit of the vine and the work of human hands. Step into the clean, crisp air and onto the rich, fertile soil of the Tradouw Valley.
In the late 1990’s, had a dream that was born whilst working as a child on the farm making wine and working in Napa Valley; they also worked in wine tourism, which became a reality when an old building on the farm was restored and converted into an aging maturation cellar. The fermentation cellar was built in 1998 out of stone from the rocky soils, characteristic of the farm. In 1999, the first grapes were harvested and crushed for the production of wine. The R62 Merlot/Cabernet Blend (60:40) was released after a 14-month aging period in Burgundy oak barrels. The production is currently just below 3000 cases per year.
Meyer Joubert, an award-winning winemaker, studied viticulture at Elsenburg near Stellenbosch in the Western Cape and thereafter in California’s famous Napa Valley for two seasons, before returning to South Africa to make his own wine.
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Add - N2 - National Road, Riversdale, 6670, South Africa
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Baleia's tasting center is located on the famous highway N2. Baleia’s vineyards and olive groves are located on exclusive terroir a stone’s throw from St Sebastian Bay, known as the whale nursery of South Africa. Inspired by the Mediterranean climate and their love of food and superbly crafted wine, the Joubert family has been producing the Baleia range of premium wines and olive oils since 2009. The uniqueness of the Baleia property lies in the soil, which consists largely of pure, solid limestone with a very high mineral content. This creates a very unique and particular mouthfeel to the wines, reminiscent of chalky minerality and maritime salinity. This soil is also home to the very rare Canca fynbos, which is endemic to the South Coast and one of the very few fynbos species to flourish in the alkaline environment of limestone outcrops
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Add - End of, Klein Constantia Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806, South Africa
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Dating back to 1685 and described as one of the world’s most beautiful wine estates, Klein Constantia is set amidst ancient trees on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg, with views across False Bay. The perfect location for cool climate wines, Klein Constantia produces some of South Africa’s top wines, including one of the world’s best natural sweet wines,
Vin de Constance.
Their 146-hectare estate originally formed part of “Constantia”, a vast property established in 1685 by Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape. This particular valley was chosen not only for its beauty but also for the decomposed granite soils on its slopes, gently cooled by ocean breezes.
The estate was originally part of Simon van der Stel’s vast Constantia estate, granted in 1685. It then formed part of Groot Constantia until 1823, when the land was divided between the brothers Jacob Pieter and Johan Gerhard Cloete. The latter took ownership of the upper reaches, situated on the eastern slopes and foothills of the Constantiaberg, where there were already over 33,000 vines planted. He named this magnificent piece of land Klein Constantia.
Facing mostly south to east, and reaching up from 70 to 343 meters above sea level, our higher slopes are some of the coldest in the Cape, thanks to fewer sunlight hours and a constant breeze off the ocean, just 10 kilometers away.
Cooler temperatures result in an increase in concentration and flavor while preserving the acidity and pH of our white varieties, most especially Sauvignon Blanc. They also create the ideal growing conditions for Muscat de Frontignan, used to make our natural sweet dessert wine, Vin de Constance. As the berries can ripen fully before training begins, they can produce raisined fruit with a remarkable intensity of flavor as well as natural acidity.
Their soils originate from granite formed up to 600 million years ago and can be divided mainly between deep fertile Oakleaf on the lower slopes and drier Glenrosa with a saprolite subsoil higher up. This well-drained, fertile, decomposed granite with high clay content ensures good water retention during the long, dry summers of the Cape when enough water slowly drains back into the vineyards to ensure an effective leaf canopy and proper ripening of the fruit.
Klein Constantia was bought by businessmen Zdenek Bakala and Charles Harman in May 2011. In June 2012, celebrated Bordeaux wine personalities, Bruno Prats and Hubert de Boüard, merged their Stellenbosch-based farm “Anwilka” with Klein Constantia.
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