The Wine Lover's Essential Guide to the A-List Vineyards in Cape Town
Cape Town, the heartland of South Africa’s wine culture, offers a diverse range of award-winning vineyards along world-famous wine routes for you to explore.
South African wine tourism is centred around the Cape’s award-winning vineyards, the heartland of our sunny country’s wine culture. In this comprehensive guide, we introduce you to the pick of the crop to include in your wine tour in the various geographical wine growing areas while enjoying your exciting holiday in Cape Town.
Discover the best vineyards in and around Cape Town
The first vineyards established in the Cape of Good Hope, back in 1685, were in Constantia. To this day, wineries in this area on the Eastern slopes of the Table Mountain Range are renowned for the award-winning wines grown and created here.
Table of Contents
The most popular wine routes in Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa, is within an hour’s drive of the most popular wine routes in the country where wine lovers can sample a wide range of homegrown wines – all within an easy day trip from their luxury villa on Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard.
With wine varieties on offer ranging from Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon and Viognier to delicious reds such as Pinor Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and South Africa’s unique Pinotage wine, Cape wines will not disappoint.
Constantia
The oldest wine region, Constantia, is only 20 minutes from Cape Town and well worth a visit to behold the heritage and history of South African wine culture.
The historic wine culture in the Cape of Good Hope in the Constantia Valley developed steadily and wine growing expanded to areas such as Somerset West, where the historic Vergelegen winery to this day produce excellent wines.
Cape Point
Cape Point, with the award-winning Cape Point Vineyards, is on the Atlantic side of the southern Cape Peninsula within 30 minutes of the city centre. A visit to this area can be combined with the scenic Chapman’s Peak drive, which visitors can take along the Atlantic Seaboard from Camps Bay to Hout Bay and then on to Noordhoek.
Helderberg
Today, the Helderberg area offers a unique wine tasting experience ranging from the offerings of the historic Vergelegen to modern-day Waterkloof with its olden day methods of biodynamic farming. All of this within an easy 45-minute drive from Cape Town, with sea views over the Indian Ocean seaside resorts of Gordon’s Bay and Strand.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is today seen as the heartland of South African wines and home to some of the top wine farms in the country. In fact, one of the award-winning wine estates in Stellenbosch, TOKARA, has just been named as one of the World’s Top 50 Most Admired Wine Brands for 2018, making it one of only three South African wine brands to attain this global accolade.
Franschhoek
Franschhoek is about an hour from the city centre. Known as the gourmet capital of the country, Franschhoek has an elite wine route and offers wine tasting tours with its famous Franschhoek Wine Tram. Visitors will enjoy wine pairings at this town’s award-winning restaurants.
Durbanville
Durbanville is a suburb of Cape Town within about 30 minutes’ reach from the city centre. Here the vegetation is different – less tree-rich than Constantia but with beautiful rolling hills and the dramatic Drakenstein and Stellenbosch mountains in the background. Its popular wine route offers a few A-List entries, not just for its close proximity to Cape Town but also for its excellent quality, award-winning wines.
Within 45-minutes to an hour from Cape Town, the wine routes of Paarl and Wellington offer a vibrant wine culture for visitors to the Western Cape to enjoy.
Paarl
Paarl is a beautiful little town that offers history and hospitality in the true “Boland” way. (Boland means ‘land above’ and refers to the areas North East of Cape Town around the Drakenstein mountains where the early settlers claimed land.) Paarl is not only known for its wine, but also for well-made brandy and grappa.
Wellington
The Wellington wine route is a largely undiscovered gem for a day trip within an hour from Cape Town. A few pleasant surprises wait to be discovered at wine tastings in this town’s top wineries.
Nox Rentals has the pick of the crop of luxury accommodation in Cape Town, from where you can plan your day trips to visit South Africa’s award winning wine farms and enjoy wine tastings of some of the best wines in the country.
If you need advice, feel free to call our friendly team on +27 21 201 1217.
Cape wine tours with a guide
Organised wine tours are the best route to take for visitors who are interested in the wine culture and who would like to taste some of the best wines on offer. The wine industry is well geared at tourism and visitors can choose between taking a wine tour with a guide in a private car or joining a larger group.
It is best to do a little bit of homework before you venture out on a wine tour to decide which area(s) you would like to experience and which wineries you would like to visit. It can be overwhelming when driving towards a town like Stellenbosch to find winery upon winery – far too many to visit during a day trip to the winelands. It is also advisable to book your lunch venue in advance or find a winery that offers a wine pairing meal, where you can combine wine tasting with excellent food.
Set out with a reputable tour guide or book through a good wine tour operator, who will drive you around so that you can happily taste as many of the wines you will encounter.
You can also select wine farms to visit based on their varietal speciality, to limit the choices and customise your wine tour to suit you. For instance, lovers of Sauvignon Blanc can head for Cape Point Vineyards, Steenberg in Constantia and also the Durbanville wine farms for excellent examples of the Sauvignon Blanc produced in the Cape.
Savour the Cape's award-winning wines
The international wine industry has numerous wine competitions and a large variety of significant awards allocated to wines from all over the world. While the proof is always in the tasting, these competition and award winners do give consumers a good guideline when making wine purchases.
The International Wine and Spirit Competition’s (IWSC) 2017 category winners include some South African wineries such as Kanonkop and Jordan Wine Estates near Stellenbosch, Stellenrust Wine Estate between Stellenbosch and Somerset West and Nederburg Wines near Paarl. Kanonkop Wine Estates also took Winemaker of the Year Trophy 2017 and South African Wine Producer of the Year 2017 in the IWSC.
Wine tasting at Cape Town's top wineries
Wine tasting is a popular leisure activity in and around Cape Town and most wineries are ready to receive visitors in their well-appointed tasting rooms.
Harvest time is the best time of the year to visit Cape Town because wineries are generally in a festive mode and visitors can even participate in family fun activities such as grape stomping in barrels.
Some of the wineries may charge a nominal fee for wine tasting, while many will forfeit the tasting ticket for visitors who buy wine. Wineries are generally able to ship wines across the globe for visitors, enhancing the wine tasting experience for those who would like to send memorable wines home to savour long after their holiday is over.
While there are many large and established wine estates in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands, visitors will also be delighted to find some small wine farms where boutique wines are produced. Most of the boutique wineries will receive guests on appointment only.
Visitors staying in Camps Bay can use our top 3 lists for each of the wine routes below as a guide of ‘must see’ wine farms to visit. All the wineries are within an hour’s drive from guests’ luxury accommodation in Camps Bay.
If you need advice, feel free to call our friendly team on +27 21 201 1217.
Constantia Valley wine farms
Visitors keen on a Constantia Valley wine tour can hop on the City Sightseeing bus, which will take them to various Constantia Nek wine estates on a circular route.
Apart from the wineries listed below, the following wine farms in the Constantia Valley are also worth a visit: Buitenverwachting; Klein Constantia; Constantia Uitsig; Steenberg and Silvermist.
Groot Constantia Estate
Groot Constantia, the oldest wine-producing farm in South Africa is well worth a visit
Wines
- Gouverneur’s Reserve White
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon
- Chardonnay
- Gouverneurs Reserve Red (Bordeaux blend)
- Constantia Rood
- Merlot
- Pinotage
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
- Blanc de Noir
- Method Cap Classique Rose
- Cape Ruby (Touriga Naçional fortified wine)
- Cape Brandy VSOP
- Grand Constance dessert wine
Special interest
This historic farm has amassed an impressive list of accolades over the years, including Decanter Wine Awards, Michelangelo International Wine & Spirit Awards, International Wine and Spirit Competition Awards, International Wine Challenge Awards and South African Veritas Awards.
Most of its wine regularly received 4.5 and 5 Stars ratings by the Platters’ South African Wine Guide, a local authority on wine.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes (two)
Restaurants: Yes
- Simon’s
- Jonkershuis
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Original Cape Dutch Manor House
- Cloete Cellar – the birthplace of Grand Constance
- Wine museum and cultural history museum
- Two free audio walking tours may be downloaded to learn more about the vineyards and modern-day production cellar
Website
Visit: grootconstantia.co.za
Eagle’s Nest
Cradled in a secluded valley high up on the slopes of Table Mountain, this wine farm’s origins can be traced back to 1836 when it was used as a refreshment station. Today, this valuable land is planted with wine varieties best suited its unique terroir.
Wines
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Viognier
- Merlot
- Shiraz
- Little Eagle Rose
Special interest
Eagle’s Nest has an Eagle Conservation project in which these majestic birds are given a chance to survive despite the vast number of new developments in the Constantia Valley. The Sauvignon Blanc attracts a lot of attention and has in the past won a Veritas Gold Medal and good ratings in the Platters’ South African Wine Guide and Tim Atkins SA Report.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: No
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Wine tasting and platters available to enjoy on the lawn
Website
Visit: eaglesnestwines.com
Beau Constantia
A boutique wine farm situated at the top of Constantia Nek overlooking False Bay, owned by the Du Preez family.
Wines
- Pierre (Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon)
- Cecily (Viognier)
- Pas de Nom White (Sauvignon Blanc/Viognier)
- Lucca (Bordeaux Blend)
- Aidan (Shiraz, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon blend)
- Stella (Shiraz)
- Pas de Nom Red (red blend)
- Pas de Nom MCC (Chardonnay)
Special interest
Beau Constantia produces a timeless and elegant gin (Karin); vodka (Leon) and an amber vodka (Ronald) in collaboration with Guy Munton Private Artisanal Distiller. The winery receives regular good ratings by wine authorities and has numerous wine awards to boot.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Chef’s Warehouse
Accommodation: No
Other: n/a
Website
Visit: beauconstantia.com
Constantia Glen
The 60-hectare wine farm, with 29 hectares under vine, produces a maximum of 100 000 bottles of Constantia Glen wines per year.
Wines
- Two (Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon)
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Three (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend)
- Five (Classic Bordeaux blend)
Special interest
Visitors can enjoy delicious Flammkuchen and summer salads at the tasting room to complement your wine tasting. The wines receive regular good ratings by the likes of Platter’s South African Wine Guide, Wine Spectator, Falstaff Magazine and The Wine Advocate, in addition to the awards it has won in international competitions.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: No
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Platters and summer salads served in the tasting room or on the lawn
Website
Visit: constantiaglen.com
Cape Peninsula wine farms
The new Cape Point Wine District was formally asserted in 1998 and is relatively new on the Cape’s wine route itinerary. Various young, but promising vineyards are situated on the western edges of the Cape Peninsula and the district is recognised for its Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon because of the cool climate.
Cape Point Vineyards
Cape Point Vineyards, in the rural suburb of Noordhoek on the Cape Peninsula, is an award-winning wine estate with a unique close proximity to the ocean and ancient soil of the Table Mountain Range.
Wines
- Cape Town Sauvignon Blanc (97% Sauvignon Blanc, 3% Semillon)
- Isliedh (82% Sauvignon Blanc, 18% Semillon)
- Chardonnay
- Splattered Toad Sauvignon Blanc
- Noordhoek Sauvignon Blanc 2017
- Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2016
- Splattered Toad Shiraz
Special interest
Visit the weekly Cape Point Vineyards Community Market on Thursday afternoons and enjoy Cape Point Vineyards wines, craft beer and food from pop-up vendors while watching the sunset over the spectacular Noordhoek beach.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Under the Tent
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Picnic on the lawn
- Market on Thursdays
- Wedding venue
Website
Visit: cpv.co.za
Cape Winelands
The Cape Winelands is within an easy 30 to 60-minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre. Its geographic divide includes the suburb of Durbanville and the towns of Somerset West, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and Wellington.
Durbanville wine farms
The Northern Suburbs of Cape Town is home to the Durbanville Wine Route. Known for its outstanding Sauvignon Blanc, there are 13 wine farms on this route. De Grendel, Canto, Hillcrest, Klein Roosboom Boutique Winery, Groot Phesantekraal Wines, Altydgedacht, Bloemendal Wine Estate, D’Aria Winery, Signal Gun Wines are also worth a visit.
Durbanville Hills
With its view of Table Mountain and Robben Island in the Atlantic Ocean, Durbanville Hills has become a steady favourite to visit on the Durbanville wine route.
Wines
Durbanville Hills Range
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chenin Blanc
- Chardonnay
Rhinofields Range
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
The Tangram Range
- White Blend (Bordeaux-style blend)
Durbanville Hills Range
- Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
- Pinotage
Rhinofields Range
- Merlot
- Pinotage
- Shiraz
The Tangram Range
- Red Blend (Bordeaux Blend)
- Merlot Rosé
Durbanville Hills Range
- Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc
Rhinofields Range
- Noble Late Harvest
Special interest
Lovers of Sauvignon Blanc will adore Durbanville Hills’ award-winning wines and its setting, which benefits from the cool Atlantic Ocean breeze.
Book a wine safari with Durbanville Hills to visit Table Mountain, take a stroll along the top of the mountain and descent by cable car, followed by a tasting of Durbanville Hills’ wines at a lookout point overlooking the city.
The second option is a visit to the cellar door at Durbanville Hills Wines, 20 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre, to enjoy wine tasting or biltong and wine pairing.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Wedding and private function venue
Website
Visit: durbanvillehills.co.za
Meerendal Wine Estate
At this 300-year old wine estate, the team is not only passionate about wine, but also about the annual international Cape Epic mountain bike event and a variety of community charities.
Wines
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Merlot
- Pinotage
- Shiraz
- The Heritage Block Pinotage
Special interest
Apart from its affinity with mountain biking, Meerendal has a Wine Academy on its premises where delegates can obtain the Cape Wine Academy Certificate and Meerendal Wine Academy Certificate.
The Durbanville 5km free entry Parkrun also takes place at Meerendal every Saturday at 8 AM. Various Gold awards for its wine complete the picture at this exciting winery.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Crown Restaurant
Accommodation: Yes
- Luxury Boutique Hotel
Other:
- Carlucci’s Deli
- Wedding and private function venue
- Saturday Parkrun
- Wine Academy
- Art Gallery
Website
Visit: meerendal.co.za
Diemersdal Wine Estate
Diemersdal wines are the perfect expression of the distinct Durbanville terroir, blending the old and new worlds of winemaking and using the complex interaction between topography, soil content and climate to make excellent wines.
Wines
- MM Louw Sauvignon Blanc
- 8 Rows Sauvignon Blanc
- Sauvignon Blanc Reserve
- Grüner Veltliner
- Chardonnay Unwooded
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Wild Horseshoe Sauvignon Blanc
- Winter Ferment (Sauvignon Blanc)
- Malbec
- Matys Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
- Merlot
- Shiraz
- Pinotage
- Pinotage Reserve
- Private Collection
- Grenache
- MM Louw Cabernet Sauvignon
- Sauvignon Rosé
- Noble Late Harvest
- Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc
Special interest
Diemersdal Wine Estate exports its award-winning wines throughout Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, Asia, Russia and New Zealand. Its range of Sauvignon Blanc wines are world-renowned and have received numerous local and international wine awards.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Diemersdal Farm Eatery
Accommodation: No
Other: n/a
Website
Visit: diemersdal.co.za
Somerset West wine farms
The Helderberg area attracts a lot of attention in the wine world. Wine farms such as Flagstone Winery, Journey’s End Vineyards and Morgenster Wine Farm (which is also well known for their award-winning olive oil) is well worth including in a wine tour of the area.
Vergelegen Estate
With a history that dates back to 1 February 1700, Vergelegen Estate is something special to experience. Its exquisite gardens and variety of activities on offer makes for a pleasant outing.
Wines
Flagship Range
- Vergelegen GVB White
Reserve Range
- Semillon
- Chardonnay
- Sauvignon Blanc
Premium Range
- Chardonnay
- Sauvignon Blanc
Flagship Range
- Vergelegen V
- Vergelegen GVB Red
Reserve Range
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Shiraz
- DNA
Premium Range
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
Reserve Range
- Straw Wine
- MMV Brut
Special interest
Visit Vergelegen’s heritage sites, the Homestead, Library, Mill Ruins, Slave Lodge and surrounding gardens. Enjoy the shade of five historic camphor trees planted in 1700, which survive to this day, an old English Oak that is over 300 years old, as well as a White Mulberry dating back to 1700.
You can also see the “Royal” Oak planted in 1928 from an acorn originating from the last of King Alfred’s oak trees as Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire.
Vergelegen Estate and its wines have earned more than 200 awards since 1992.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Camphors Signature Restaurant
- Stables at Vergelegen Bistro Restaurant
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Picnics
- Homestead
- Library
- Mill Ruins
- Slave Lodge
- Garden sites
- Environmental project to re-introduce indigenous fauna and flora
- Nguni Cattle Stud
- Bontebok viewing
Website
Visit: vergelegen.co.za
Waterkloof Wine Estate
This biodynamic wine farm embraces its WWF Biodiversity & Wine Initiative Champion status while producing excellent wines.
Wines
- Circle of Life White
- Waterkloof Sauvignon Blanc
Circumstance
- Viognier
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chenin Blanc
- Chardonnay
Seriously Cool
- Chenin Blanc
False Bay Peacock
- Windswept Sauvignon Blanc
- Crystalline Chardonnay
- Slow Chenin Blanc
- Circle of Life Red
Circumstance
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Mourvèdre
- Syrah
- Cape Coral Mourvèdre
Seriously Cool
- Cinsault
False Bay Peacock
- Old School Syrah
- Bush Vine Pinotage
False Bay Peacock
- Whole Bunch Cinsault/Mourvédre Rosé
- Astraeus MCC Chardonnay
- Astraeus MCC Pinot Noir
Special interest
Percheron-drawn ploughs to tend to the vineyards add to the fact that Waterkloof’s honest wines are made in the vineyard. The Restaurant at Waterkloof receives rave reviews and has a list of Eat Out Awards bearing testimony to the quality and innovation guests can taste here.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Waterkloof Signature Restaurant
- The Tasting Lounge (platters)
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Wedding venue
- Horseback rides
- Guided walks
- Tour With Us experience
- Return helicopter trip from V&A Waterfront to Waterkloof for lunch
Website
Visit: waterkloofwines.co.za
Lourensford Wine Estate
Wines
The River Garden
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Chardonnay/Pinot Noir
Estate Range
- Chardonnay
Limited Release
- Chardonnay
- Viognier
The Flower Collection
- Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
The River Garden
- Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon
Estate Range
- Merlot
- Shiraz
- Cabernet Sauvignon
Limited Release
- SMV
- Merlot
- Red Blend
The Flower Collection
- Rosé
Estate Range
- Honey Liqueur
Limited Release
- MCC Brut
- MCC Brut Rosé
- Noble Late Harvest
Special interest
Lourensford is a destination in itself with markets, trail running and mountain biking events, with award-winning wines and spectacular views to boot.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- The Millhouse Kitchen
Accommodation: No
Other:
- ABRU craft brewery
- Coffee Roastery
- Art Gallery
- Outdoor markets
- Music Concerts
- Cycling & trail-running events
- Lifestyle Retreat Studio and Shop
- Spa
- Clay pigeon adventures
- Trout Fishing
- Montessori school
- The Aleit Group and Academy and function venue
Website
Visit: lourensford.co.za
Stellenbosch wine farms
Stellenbosch is the heartland of the Cape Winelands. This student town revolves around the University of Stellenbosch and still plays host to one of the most popular wine route destinations in South Africa.
Visitors truly are spoilt for choice with the large number of excellent wineries available where one can drop in to taste wine, have lunch and generally enjoy the fruit of the vine in all its shapes.
Do not miss Spier Wine Farm with its added attractions such as the Eagle Encounters, Lanzerac Wine Estate, Tokara, Beyerskloof, Brenaissance, Simonsig, Blaauwklippen, Murati, Delheim, Knorhoek, Morgenhof, L’Avenir, Waterfort, Jordan Wine Estate, Villiera Wines, Warwick Wine Estate, Vergenoegd, Neethlingshof Estate, Uva Mira, Hartenberg, Zorgvliet, Rust en Vrede and many more.
Ernie Els Wines
Former World Number 1 golfer Ernie Els pursues excellence and his wine is no exception. Sports fans especially will enjoy the experience of visiting this impeccable wine farm in Stellenbosch.
Wines
Ernie Els
- Sauvignon Blanc
Big Easy
- Chenin Blanc
Proprietor’s
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Blend (Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz)
- Syrah
Ernie Els
- Signature Bordeaux Blend
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
Big Easy
- Red Blend
- Cabernet Sauvignon
Big Easy
- Rosé
Special interest
Ernie Els is a globally recognised sportsman and his wines have a reputation in the market as some of Stellenbosch’s greats. Keen golfers can come take part in the chipping competition, which is held every last Friday and Saturday of the month at the wine farm.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Ernie Els Lunches available on the farm
- The Big Easy Stellenbosch
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Chipping course
Website
Visit: ernieelswines.com
Kanonkop Wine Estate
Internationally acclaimed wine farm Kanonkop has been producing premium award-winning wines in Stellenbosch. This fourth generation family estate is located on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain.
Wines
- Black Label Pinotage
- Paul Sauer
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Pinotage
- Kadette Pinotage
- Kadette Cape Blend
- Pinotage Rosé
Special interest
A regular top performer in the International Wine and Spirit Competition, Kanonkop enjoys widespread international recognition as one of South Africa’s top wineries that consistently produce excellent quality red wines.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant:
- Cheese platters in the summer
- Cape Snoek (game fish)
- Barbeque available for a minimum of 15 guests
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Art gallery
Website
Visit: kanonkop.co.za
Delaire Graff Estate
This jewel of the Cape Winelands has been developed into a world-leading destination for wine, art and hospitality and is well worth a visit to marvel at its unrivalled setting and discerning quality.
Wines
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Coastal Cuvée
- Summercourt Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc Swartland Reserve
- Chardonnay Banghoek Reserve
- White Reserve
- Terraced Block Chardonnay Reserve
- Shiraz
- Botmaskop
- Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
- Reserve
- Cabernet Franc Rosé
- Sunburst Noble Late Harvest
- Sunrise Brut MCC
- Cape Vintage
Special interest
Graff Diamonds’ Laurence Graff opened the doors to the Delaire Graff Estate in 2009, having transformed the previous Delaire wine farm into an extraordinary luxury destination that enjoys status as a Relais & Chateux property.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant:
- Delaire Graff Restaurant
- Indochine
Accommodation: Yes
- Delaire Graff Lodge
Other:
- Spa
- Art gallery
- The Gardens
- Techno gym
- Private dining and events
- Graff Diamonds Boutique
- 100% Capri Linen Boutique
- Vana Boutique
Website
Visit: delaire.co.za
Franschhoek wine farms
South Africa’s gourmet capital, Franschhoek, is also the mecca of wine excellence in the Cape Winelands.
Be sure to include any of the following wine farms in your wine tour: Dieu Donne Vineyards, Lynx Wines, Stony Brook Vineyards, Vrede en Lust Winery, Glenwood Vineyards, La Motte Wine Estate, Allee Bleue, Boschendal Manor & Winery, Topiary Wines, Rickety Bridge Winery, Antonij Rupert Wyne, Grand Provence Estate, Haute Cabriere, Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons, L’Omarins, Noble Hill Wine Estate, Leopard’s Leap, Mont Rochelle, Moreson, Solms-Delta Farm and Graham Beck Winery,
Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines
Wine making couple Chris and Andrea Mullineux teamed up with Analjit Singh to produce remarkable wines in the country.
Wines
Mullineux Range
- Old Vines White
- Olerasay
Essence
- Schist Chenin
- Granite Chenin
- Quartz Chenin Leliefontein
The Kloof Street Range
- Chenin Blanc
Mullineux Range
- Syrah
Essence
- Granite Syrah
- Schist Syrah “Roundstone”
- Iron Syrah
The Kloof Street Range
- Swartland Rouge
Mullineux Range
- Straw Wine
Special interest
Andrea Mullineux was crowned Winemaker of the Year 2016 by Wine Enthusiast and Mullineux Family Wine was Platter’s Wine Guide 2014 and 2016’s “Winery of the Year”.
It’s not easy to find most of the winery’s excellent sold out Chenin Blanc wines. As part of the prestigious Leeu Collection, Mullineux and Leeu Family Wines enjoys exposure to elite clientele from all over the world.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
- Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines
- The Wine Studio
Restaurants (in Franshhoek): Yes
- The Dining Room
- The Conservatory
- The Garden Room
- Bar at LQF
- Marigold
- Tuk
Accommodation: Yes
- Leeu Collection has a variety of hotels available in the Franschhoek Valley
Other:
- Art gallery
- Four Quarter Vineyards
- Herb & Vegetable Garden
- Bokkie Garden
- Vineyard Walk
Website
Visit: leeucollection.com
Boekenhoutskloof Winery
Named after a ravine with indigenous Cape Beach trees, Boekenhoutskloof is a magical little wine farm that is located in the furthest corner of the Franschhoek valley.
Wines
Boekenhoutskloof
- Semillon
Porcupine Ridge
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chenin Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Viognier Grenache Blanc
The Wolftrap
- White
Boekenhoutskloof
- Syrah
- Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon
- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon
The Chocolate Block
- Red blend from Syrah, Grenache Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Viognier
Porcupine Ridge
- Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Syrah
- Syrah Viognier
The Wolftrap
- Red
Boekenhoutskloof
- Porcupine Ridge Rosé
The Wolftrap
- Rosé
Special interest
Boekenhoutskloof produces award-winning wines and receives regular raving reviews from wine connoisseurs worldwide. It is one of the founding members of Franschhoek Mountain Conservancy, is dedicated to the conservation of its Cape Floral Kingdom.
A rare Erica called Erica Lerouxiae has been identified on the property and is unique to Boekenhoutskloof and the neighbouring farm, Haut Espoir.
Facilities
Website
Visit: boekenhoutskloof.co.za
Babylonstoren
One of the oldest Cape Dutch Farms, Babylonstoren has been developed into a beautiful and interesting destination featuring the finest fruit and vegetable gardens in the Cape Winelands.
Wines
- Chenin Blanc
- Viognier
- Chardonnay
- Babel Red
- Shiraz
- Nebukadnesar
- Mourvèdre Rosé
- Sprankel (MCC)
Special interest
Step into the oasis that is Babylonstoren and spend the day enjoying everything on offer here – from the Farm Shop and Bakery, to the spa and a guided tour of the spectacular gardens.
The Babylonstoren Nebukadneser 2014 – a Bordeaux blend, took the gold medal at the Decanter Wine Awards in 2017.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Babel (fine dining)
- Greenhouse (light meals, home-baked treats)
Accommodation: Yes
- Farm Hotel
Other:
- Garden
- Spa
- Bakery
- Shop
- Functions
- Workshops
Website
Visit: babylonstoren.com
Paarl wine farms
The quaint city of Paarl is only 40 minutes from Cape Town and is home to the Afrikaans Language Monument and the unusual Pearl mountain, a huge granite rock.
Paarl lies in a popular wine growing area and is home to many excellent wineries and wine farms. Wineries not to be missed in the area include Spice Route Destination, Fairview, Landskroon, Backsberg, Plaisir de Merle, Ridgeback’s Wines, KWV Wine Emporium, Boland Cellar and Rhebokskloof, to name a few.
Nederburg Wines
A winery with a heritage dating back to 1791, Nederburg is a household name throughout South Africa and is known for wines of consistent high quality.
Wines
One of a Kind
- Lyric
- Duet
- Stein
56Hundred
- Chenin Blanc
- Sauvignon Blanc
The Wine Masters
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Grigio0
- Riesling
- Special Late Harvest
Manor House
- Sauvignon Blanc
Heritage Heroes
- The Anchorman
- The Beautiful Lady
- The Young Air Hawk
Ingenuity
- White Blend
1791
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
One of a Kind
- Baronne
56Hundred
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
The Wine Masters
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
- Merlot
Manor House
- Shiraz
- Cabernet Sauvignon
Heritage Heroes
- The Motorcycle Marvel
- The Brew Master
Ingenuity
- Italian Blend
- Spanish Blend
II Centuries
- Cabernet Sauvignon
1791
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
- Merlot
- Pinotage
One of a Kind
- Rosé
1791
- Rosé
The Wine Masters
- Noble Late Harvest
Special interest
Step back in time to visit the historic Nederburg farm. Enjoy a tour of the state-of-the-art cellar and the Old Cellar Museum.
Every year, Nederburg plays host to the Nederburg Auction, a showcase for South African wines.
Nederburg has an impressive list of wine awards under its belt and won 105 Awards in 2017 alone, including great ratings from Platter’s, awards from the International Wine and Spirit Competition and Decanter World Wine Awards.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Red Door
Accommodation: No
Other:
- Function venue
Website
Visit: nederburg.com
Laborie
The historic Laborie wine estate is located in the main road of Paarl. Wine has been produced her since 1698.
Wines
Taillefert Wines
- Chardonnay
Estate Range
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc
Limited Collection
- Chardonnay
Taillefert Wines
- Pinot Noir
Estate Range
- Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
- Cabernet Sauvignon
Limited Collection
- Merlot
- Shiraz
Taillefert Wines
- Crémant De Taillefert Brut MCC
Méthode Cap Classique
- MCC Brut Rosé
- MCC Brut
- MCC Blanc de Blancs
Limited Collection
- Jean Taillefert MCC
Fortifieds and Brandy
- Pineau de Laborie
Special interest
Laborie’s sparkling wines often make an appearance at celebrations in South Africa and Laborie has won the trophy for the best Brut at the 2015 Amorim Cap Classique Awards, organised by the Cap Classique Producers Association.
Made in the traditional French way with the second fermentation taking place inside the bottle, Laborie’s Méthode Cap Classique bubbly gets rave reviews.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
- At the iconic Manor House on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 to 17:00 (16:00 on Sundays)
Restaurant:
- Cucina di Giovanni (Mediterranean inspired cuisine)
- Pearl Rock Terrace (simple seasonable lunches and dinners)
Accommodation: Yes
Other:
- National Monument (Manor House built in 1750)
Location
Coordinates:
Website
Visit: laboriewines.co.za
Avondale
A wine farm with the ethos “Soil is Life”, Avondale prides itself on its certified organic status. Working with the ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and employing ducks to manage vineyard pests naturally, Avondale works with nature to produce their range of fine wines.
Wines
- Armilla Blanc de Blanc
- Anima
- Cyclus
- Samsara
- La Luna
- Navitas
- Amphora
- Camissa
Special interest
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- FABER offers exceptional seasonal meals created by Chef Eric Bulpitt
Accommodation: Yes
Other:
- Book an Eco Wine Safari and enjoy exploring the winelands like never before
- Event venue
Website
Visit: avondalewine.co.za
Wellington wine farms
This town, adjacent to Paarl, if often referred to as the place of origin of wine in South Africa, since this is where most of the nurseries that cultivate new vines are found.
This town also hosts a handful of impressive wine farms that is worth including on a wine tour, such as Imbuko Wines, Wellington Wines, Andreas Wines, Dunstone Wines and Linton Park Wines.
Diemersfontein Wine & Country Estate
A private and tranquil country estate that has it all – from award-winning wines to an upmarket housing estate, restaurant, venue, guest cottages and manor house.
Wines
Thokozani
- CCV (Chenin Chardonnay Viognier)
Ovation
- Sauvignon Blanc
Premium
- Chenin Blanc
Carpe Diem
- Chenin Blanc
- Viognier
Thokozani
- SMV (Shiraz Mourvédre, Viognier)
Ovation
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
Premium
- Pinotage
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
- Merlot
- Summer’s Lease
- Harlequin Shiraz Pinotage
Carpe Diem
- Malbec
- Pinotage
Thokozani
- Rosé
Special interest
Diemersfontein has positioned itself in the market as Pinotage Ambassadors. Pinotage is a uniquely South African wine variety and this wine farm has created a large following in the South African marketplace with its Coffee Chocolate Pinotage.
In 2017, Diemersfontein Carpe Diem Malbec 2015 took top honours for Malbec in the Novare SA Terroir Awards and its Carpe Diem Pinotage 2015 was awarded first place in the ABSA Top 10 Pinotage competition for 2017.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
- Seasons
Accommodation: Yes
Other:
- Venue for the annual Pinotage on Tap festival
- Tractor rides through the vineyard
- Fynbos horse trails
- Beauty salon
Website
Visit: diemersfontein.co.za
Doolhof Wine Estate
Hidden almost at the end of a valley at the foot of the Bains Kloof mountain pass behind Groenberg Mountain Range, visitors will discover the beautiful Doolhof farm.
Wines
Signatures of Doolhof
- Chardonnay Unwooded
- Sauvignon Blanc
Legends of the Labyrinth
- Lady in White
The Cape Series
- Chenin Blanc
Carpe Diem
- Cape Crane
Signatures of Doolhof
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Single Vineyard Pinotage
- Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc
- Single Vineyard Malbec
Legends of the Labyrinth
- Theseus
- The Minotaur
- Lady in Red
- Dark Lady
The Cape Series
- Pinotage
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Shiraz
- Merlot
- Summer’s Lease
- Harlequin Shiraz Pinotage
Carpe Diem
- Cape Boar
Signatures of Doolhof
- Malbec Bush Vine Blanc de Noir
Special interest
The farm lies in the far corner of the Wagon Maker’s Valley (Val du Charron) – a historic area in Wellington that housed French Huguenots from the early 1700s. Doolhof is the Afrikaans word for a Labyrinth.
This farm’s Single Vineyard Malbec and Single Vineyard Pinotage have attracted attention from the wine critiques and has won the farm an impressive number of awards.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
Restaurant: No
Accommodation: Yes
- Grand Dédale is a five-star Country House
Other:
- Picnics on the lawn
- Wedding venue
- Hiking, trail running and mountain biking trails
Website
Visit: doolhof.com
Bosman Family Vineyards
The Bosman Family Vineyards has been in the Bosman family since 1707 and is the leading producer of Fairtrade wine from South Africa, to this day making wine in its restored 260-year old cellar.
The original farm in Wellington has been complemented by the addition of a farm in Hermanus’ Upper Hemel-en-Aarde valley, a top Sauvignon Blanc producing area.
Wines
- Skin Contact Pinot Gris
- Semillon
- Fides Grenache Blanc
Adama
- White
Special Vineyard Selection
- Optenhorst Chenin Blanc
Bo-Vallei
- Chenin Blanc
Upper Hemel-en-Aarde
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Pinotage
- Erfenis
- Nero D’Avola
- Twyfeling Cinsaut
Adama
- Red
Bo-Vallei
- Merlot
Upper Hemel-en-Aarde
- Pinot Noir
- De Bos Rosé
- Loose Canon MCC
- Dolce Primitivo desert wine
- Soet Steen
Special interest
Bosman Family Vineyards is a leading ethical producer of premium wines, devoted to handcrafted, responsible wine making. This award-winning winery has been producing especially notable Chenin Blanc wines crafted by acclaimed winemaker Corlea Fourie.
Facilities
Tasting room: Yes
- A new tasting room has now also opened at its premises in Hermanus
Restaurant: No
Accommodation: No
Other: n/a
Website
Visit: bosmanwines.com
Relax in luxury's lap while in Cape Town
Wonderful wines, fine food and exquisite lodgings go hand in hand. If you are looking for the best area to stay in when you visit Cape Town, make sure you book your luxury self-catering accommodation with the area specialists, Nox Rentals.
Our concierge service, available to facilitate a happy holiday during which you meet all your vacation goals, can also assist in putting together your Cape wine experience. We can put you in touch with the very best tour guides or tour operators who have intimate knowledge of Cape Town’s best vineyards and wine routes to accompany you on a day’s wine tasting.
Nox Rentals’ upmarket holiday rentals are four-star or five-star establishments catering for your specific needs – whether you need a comfortable but cosy hideaway for a couple or an expansive mansion with seven en-suite bedrooms to house your family and friends. Our holiday homes usually offer sea and mountain views and easy access not only to Cape Town’s top vineyards but also to the beaches, mountain, V&A Waterfront and all the sights to see in the Mother City.
Browse Nox Rentals’ handpicked selection of luxury vacation accommodation options or call us on +21 201 1217 and get set to tour the Cape’s top wineries.top
As a guest of Nox Rentals, you get to relax in the lap of luxury with a dedicated host, daily servicing, and free WiFi. Book any of our spacious, private holiday homes in Cape Town today to experience our award-winning service.
If you need advice, feel free to call our friendly team on +27 21 201 1217.
Ready to start planning your trip? Find the answers to your travel-related questions in our handy, one-stop Cape Town holiday planning hub – complete with info-packed guides and resources that will make planning your visit a breeze.