Wine Estates in Cape Winelands

Named after its dramatic views of the Simonsberg Mountain, the estate is ideally situated in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s premier wine region, 45 km east of Cape Town. Celebrating four decades of quality winemaking through innovation, Simonsig Estate, remains as dedicated about wine excellence as they are passionate about the tradition of wine enjoyment.

A legendary landmark, Simonsig is one of the country’s most awarded cellars, fostering acclaimed accomplishments including South Africa’s Top Shiraz, Woman Winemaker of the Year 2005 and four ABSA Top Ten Pinotage triumphs. A visit to this unique working cellar, enhanced by daily wine tastings, its newly launched Cuvée restaurant and true Stellenbosch hospitality, make for an authentic wine experience.

As founder member of the Stellenbosch Wine Route, Simonsig enjoys widespread popularity, receiving thousands of visitors. In winter a cosy fire welcomes you to the tasting room, which is managed by the irrepressible Maureen Basson. A cool, shady veranda and flutes of ice cold Kaapse Vonkel await you in summer. Informative tastings, cellar tours and a ceremonial sabrage make for a memorable visit.

Need to know? Tasting & Wine Sales: Monday to Friday 08h30 to 17h00, Saturdays and Public Holidays 08h30 to 16h00. Cellar tours: Monday to Friday 10h00 & 15h00, Saturdays 10h00. Closed Sunday, Easter Fri, Dec 25 & Jan 1.

Established by Willem van der Stel in 1700, the proud winemaking traditions of this estate were revived when it was purchased by Dr. Christo Wiese in 1998. Lourensford Wine Estate now features a brand new wine cellar, utilizing technology unique in the Southern Hemisphere, and already pressing more than 1500 tons. Meticulous selection of grapes combined with minimum handling and the use of gravity during vinification form the basis of a singular philosophy of quality.

Lourensford Estate offers a unique sensory and tasting experience. Here you can nibble delicious nougat and eyeball, sniff and sip at the wine tasting and more. There’s also a world class cheesery, coffee roastery, charming restaurant (Oak Tree 021 847 2328) and art gallery. At Lourensford there’s something for every connoisseur!

Doolhof Wine Estate lies in a beautiful valley below the Bainskloof Pass and is surrounded by three dramatic mountain ranges. The award winning wines are available for tasting in the "old wagon house" which has been stylishly restored and captures the essence of understated elegance. Several well marked walks leading past the river, the vineyards, orange groves and fynbos rich areas allow visitors to enjoy magnificent views over the Estate. Light lunches and picnics are available.

Situated in the very heart of the Cape’s winelands in the Stellenboschkloof and flanked by the Bottelary Hills and Papegaaiberg Mountain, Neethlingshof is just outside the town of Stellenbosch and well worth a visit.

Driving up the imposing stone pine avenue, a stunning vista unfolds complete with pristine Cape Dutch buildings, rolling green vineyards and a cosy cellar where the full range of wines may be tasted and purchased.

Need to know? Wine Tasting and Sales: Mon- Fri: 09h00-17h00 Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: 10h00-16h00 The estate closes 2hrs later in the summer months. Individual and group tastings are available for a fee. Charge for cellar tours - prior booking is required. For estate tour, contact Katrin Cross on +27 (0)21 883 8988.

Inspired by Africa, a passion for wine and the ideas and philosophies of the world-renowned architect, Luis Barragan, Mont Destin cellar brings an exciting, innovative and fresh approach to wine and architecture in the Cape Winelands.

On 10 hectares of land owners Samantha and Ernest have planted the classic varieties: Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon; and some new and exciting varieties: Grenache, Mourvedré, Cinsaut and Viognier which gives us the opportunity to create the most interesting blends.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience tasting their uniquely hand-crafted wines at Mont Destin wine cellar which is definitely the first of its kind in South Africa.

The heart of Stellenbosch Winelands. Situated on the slopes of the Papegaaiberg, Oude Libertas overlooks the magnificent Stellenbosch mountain range. Here you can experience three centuries of Cape Hospitality under the ancient oak trees with views that stretch over the surrounding scenery and vineyards.

Every Saturday morning the Oude Libertas Organic Farmers Market is hosted where truly organic suppliers and shoppers get together in a laid back atmosphere to do their trading and often share lazy breakfasts while they are here. Facilities include an Amphitheatre, Restaurant, Wine Centre and Conference and Event facilities.

The huge, sprawling Boschendal Wine Estate outside Stellenbosch is one of the oldest wine producers in the New World with a French viticulture heritage dating back to 1685. Experience Boschendal's wide range of exquisite wines by visiting the Wine Tasting Centre, situated in the oldest building on the property. Here you can taste and buy wines under the shade of the huge oak tree. Don’t miss the Exhibition Vineyard and Cellar where you can find out how the Boschendal vineyard operates and explore their state of the art cellar.

The impressive Manor House is definitely worth a visit if you want to see an outstanding example of Cape Dutch architecture. Built in 1812, it is one of the few authentically furnished farmhouses open to the public at the Cape.

And if all that wine tasting and exploring has given you a rumbling tummy, then choose from one of Boschendal's three world renowned dining experiences. Visit the newly renovated Boschendal Restaurant that serves delicious, extensive Cape-French buffet luncheons, seven days a week. If the weather is fine then treat yourself to Le Pique Nique - an elegant French-style picnic beneath the fragrant pines. For light lunches and teas served under shady oak trees head straight to Le Café.