Somerset West Wine Estates

Founded in 1682, Blaauwklippen is one of the oldest working wine farms in South Africa. This gorgeous wine farm is situated 50 km from Cape Town and 4 km south of Stellenbosch on the R44 Stellenbosch Wine Route. Visitors are welcome to taste a variety of wines from their Vineyard, Cultivar and Landau selections ranging from Bordeaux blends, varietals to unique red dessert wines. Their flagship wines are the Zinfandel Trio – Red, White and Noble Late Harvest. Open Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 17:00, Sunday 09:00 – 16:00.

Wine, food, art, culture, nature and conservation Spier is more than an innovative and iconic destination. It is a place of hope that delivers experiences that rejuvenate mind, body and soul. Visitors to the estate are given a sensory encounter – here you can see, smell, hear, feel and taste a variety of unexpected experiences.Situated in the heart of South Africa's Cape Winelands, Spier Wines produce award-winning wines that have won global recognition. Guests and visitors can experience the art of fine wine through tasting opportunities.Spier has long believed that the arts have a crucial role to play in the African Renaissance as art, in all its forms, has the power to transform societies. As such, Spier launched the Spier Arts Summer Season 11 years ago as a way to express their passion for the arts.A fine collection of African art is showcased throughout the estate. It draws guests into exploring the vibrancy, energy and life of the diverse heritage of the Cape and the African continent, embodying multiple cultures and traditions. Visitors can absorb the power of this collection with ease as they stroll around Spier.The fabric of Spier's rich history was created out of a journey that began in 1692 and has been embroidered for over three centuries. The original Manor House and slave bell, as well as the oldest dated wine cellar in South Africa, have been impeccably restored for future generations to stay in touch with the past.Take a stroll through the lovely estate. There are walks through the rose gardens at the back of Moyo, by the riverside, by the lakeside. There is an abundance of birdlife on the estate for bird watchers and the opportunity to roam around freely. Take a walk to the Africa Centre meeting spaces on the south bank, or visit their nursery where plants are propagated to landscape the gardens or check out the Adobe brick-making works.Need to know? Spier Wine Shop is open seven days a week from 09h00 to 17h00.Tastings between 10h00 and 16h30.

LovanE is one of the smallest wine estates near Stellenbosch, producing 20 000 bottles of wine per year. Situated in the picturesque Polkadraai Hills, its famous neighbours are Neethlingshof Wine Estate and Overgaauw Wine Estate. Vineyard plantings consist of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Their first wine was produced in 2006. Wine tasting times: Monday to Sunday 10:00 – 17:00. Closed on Public Holidays.

Situated in Stellenboschkloof and flanked by the Bottelary Hills and Papegaaiberg Mountain, Neethlingshof is just outside Stellenbosch and is 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. Wine Tasting and Sales: Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00, Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays 10:00 – 16:00. The estate closes two hours later in the summer months. Individual and group tastings are available for a fee. Charge for cellar tours – prior booking is required. For estate tours, contact Katrin Cross on +27 (0) 21 883 8988.

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 Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market is hosted in the amphitheatre. Here truly organic suppliers and shoppers get together in a laid back atmosphere to do their trading and often share lazy breakfasts together. Facilities at Oude Libertas include an amphitheatre, restaurant, wine tasting centre, and event and conference facilities.

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.

Steeped in early Cape history, Muratie is one of the most authentic treasures of the Cape Winelands. This working wine farm in the Stellenbosch wine region offers an experience of farm life against a backdrop of grandiose views of Simonsberg and Table Mountain. Enormous shady old oak trees line the grounds and set the stage for what lies inside the historic buildings. The old fermentation tanks in the cellar are characterised by tartaric encrusted walls, old carpets, wooden furniture and original art. This is where you will find honest farm food, good wine and great company. Muratie’s wines, in the words of the late Ronnie Melck, are ‘humble, honest and full of integrity, with quality being the only answer’. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 10:00 – 17:00 Closed Good Friday & Christmas Cellar tours daily at 10:30 & 14:30.

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.

Solms-Delta offers a unique experience – far more than what you’d expect from a wine estate. Situated 15km outside Franschhoek in the heart of the Cape Winelands, this outstanding estate not only creates celebrated classical wines, it also offers a variety of highlights throughout the seasons. Visitors can picnic all year round in the enchanting forest, enjoy contemporary Cape cuisine at its renowned Fyndraai restaurant and be part of the annual harvest festival. A museum pays homage to the slaves who lived in the area and there are six special interest guided wine farm tours.Wine tasting at Solms-Delta wine estate is open seven days a week and takes place in the Museum van de Caab or under the oaks outside. The museum, which chronicles the social history of the 325-year old estate, is housed in the original wine cellar dating back to 1740.Enjoy a tasting of Solms-Delta and Solms-Astor wines and learn about the way they make their wines by taking one of the Farm Tours that include wine tasting. For more information or to book a tour call 021 874 3937.The tasting room for tasting and sales is open 9am to 6pm from Tuesday to Saturday and 9am to 5pm Sunday and Monday (closed December 25th and January 1st). Tasting is free for individuals. For groups of eight or more a R10 tasting fee per person is levied.

Vrede en Lust offers a Cape Winelands experience unlike any other. Here you can enjoy everything from award winning wines, historic Cape Dutch architecture, undulating vineyards, breathtaking scenery and world class facilities.Taste award winning wines by winemaker Susan Wessels (Erasmus) in the Vrede en Lust Tasting Room. Open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm.Cotage Fromage Country Restaurant, Deli & Bakery is open Monday to Sunday from 8am to 5pm.Vrede en Lust is also one of the most desired destinations for weddings, lavish birthday parties, high profile product launches, conferences and corporate events.

When owners Elke and Friedrich-Wilhelm Dauphin originally bought the farm, they invested substantially in staff, infrastructure and cellar technology to create a world-class winery that today produces an acclaimed range of wines. The red wines, with aromas of juicy dark berries such as blackberries and plums, are typically accompanied by spicy notes and pleasant mineral components. Allowed to develop in American and French oak barrels for a year, the reds are characterised by powerful tannins to ensure an opulent finish. In contrast, the white wines surprise with their refreshing, fine acidity and aromas of peaches and tropical fruits and they are fermented in stainless-steel tanks for nine months.Visitors to Allée Bleue may enjoy a wine tasting either in the delightfully relaxed courtyard of the Tasting Centre – conveniently located at the entrance to the Estate or by special arrangement with the winemaker. Alternatively, Bistro Allée Bleue, the Estate’s stylishly appointed restaurant set in a restored Cape Dutch building opposite the Tasting Centre, is the perfect setting in which to enjoy any of the Estate’s delicious wines either by the glass or by the bottle at cellar-door prices.

Glenwood is a very special place. Located in the little-known valley of Robertsvlei, a few kilometres from Franschhoek, the farm and winery are surrounded by aspects of outstanding natural beauty.In this unique environment, it was only natural to plant the very best vines, with cultivars matched to the specific terroir of the valley, and to use sustainable farming practices to produce the best possible quality wines. They have done exactly that over the past twenty years, winning viticultural awards in the process, and their wines are receiving widespread acclaim.All grapes are hand-picked in the early hours of the morning to preserve their natural fruitiness. The wines are fermented in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks using natural and other yeasts, before maturation and bottling. State-of-the art winemaking techniques and personal attention are producing outstanding quality cultivar wines.Glenwood’s Flagship is the Chardonnay Vigneron’s selection, barrel fermented and matured in new French barrels with only wild yeast. Winning numerous awards, this wine features outstanding fruit and oak integration with a lingering aftertaste of smokey peach.Wine Tasting Hours:Mondays to Fridays 11:00 & 16:00Saturdays and Sundays (September to April, excluding Christian religious public holidays) 11:00 & 15:00Closed on weekends from May to AugustJoin their popular cellar and vineyard tours daily at 11:00.

Steeped in history and dating from 1797, this beautiful Boutique Estate is a 'must-visit' destination in Franschhoek. Rickety Bridge offers great wines, superb picnics and light meals in summer and hearty meals in winter as well as luxury accommodation, all amid spectacular mountain views. Leave all your cares behind and cross the bridge for a truly memorable experience.Need to know? Rickety Bridge Wine Tasting Centre Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 19:00 (December - March), Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 17:00 (April - November), Sunday 10:00 - 17:00. Closed 25 December and 1 January.Tasting fee: R15.00 per person for five wines, refundable on a purchase of wine. Cellar Tours can be arranged by appointment.

The Franschhoek Valley is one of the top wine destinations in the world. It is here that the Maison Estate produces wines that are honed with skill, care and respect. Each vine is tenderly nurtured, each grape hand selected to give it that personal touch that is always home, always Maison. “While travelling is my passion, the comforting memory of a meal, of intimate moments shared with good friends over good wine, always draws me home.” This is Chris Weylandt’s inspiration behind the name Maison, the French word for house. “We make highly individual wines. We drink them with the people closest to us – and we love drinking them at home, where we can really explore the intimate character of each bottle,” says Weylandt. Open Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 – 17:00 +27 (0) 21 876 2116 www.maisonestate.co.za

Bloemendal Wine Estate is situated in the heart of the picturesque Durbanville Wine Route, producing top quality grapes for the wine industry in the region. The estate is known for its multiple award-winning Bloemendal Sauvignon Blanc, "Suider Terras". Other notables include Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Semillon, Natural Sweet, Chardonnay, Pinotage, and Bloemenblanc. Bloemendal is also home to some of the best festivals and concerts in Cape Town. Festivals to diarise include Feast of the Grape in March, Oyster and Champagne Festival over Easter, Soup Sip and Bread in June, Spring Fest in September, Seasons of Sauvignon in October, and the Table Mountain Blues Summit in November.

Renowned for its exceptional wines, picturesque setting, historic buildings and rural atmosphere, La Motte is an enchanting destination for visitors to the Cape Winelands. In synchronization with the wine making process, the farm also cultivates flowers and produces ethereal oils.La Motte’s completely redesigned and refurbished tasting centre was unveiled late 2009 and has been praised for the inviting and friendly ambiance it creates for wine lovers. Seated at hand-made tasting tables or in comfortable sofas, visitors look through huge glass windows into the working maturation cellar.Visitors are able to sample La Motte’s range of award-winning wines amid original works of art by acclaimed South African artist Jacob Hendrik Pierneef, after whom La Motte’s range of premium wines is named.Knowledgeable staff will not only advise guests on current vintages but also some of the older vintages which can be tasted. Besides wine, guests can also purchase some of La Motte’s beautiful Disas which are available during flowering season.Tasting Room hours: Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 17:00, closed Sundays and Christian Public Holidays.

Visit one of the most picturesque tasting rooms in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Situated in the incredibly scenic Paarl Valley, the Laborie Wine Estate is part of a small group of estate brandy producers. The location of the original 18th century pot still was traced through wide-ranging exploration. Today its modern equal is one of the many attractions of the tasting room. Along with pot still brandy, Laborie produces quality white, red, sparkling and fortified wines. Laborie is one of the first members of the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative, an independent nature conservation initiative that promotes awareness of the Cape's unique fynbos floral kingdom. Conservation initiatives focus on preserving eco-sensitive vineyard areas and aid the re-establishment of fynbos. Laborie has set aside 10% of the total farm and has reclaimed certain mountainside vineyards for fynbos regeneration. Bordering Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve, Laborie’s new fynbos areas attract many species of flora and fauna. Taillefer Street, Main Road, Paarl April to September opening hours: Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 17:00 Sundays 11:00 – 15:00 October to March opening hours: Monday to Sunday 09:00 – 17:00 For more information please contact 021 807 3390 or email peinaaf@kwv.co.za.

Chamonix is located in the rich wine-growing region of the Western Cape, tucked away deep in the Franschhoek Valley. Once a part of the historic La Cotte Farm, granted to the Huguenots in 1688, Chamonix today comprises 300 hectares. Today Chamonix is known for its award-winning wines, German-style Schnapps, Grappa and Spring Water, which can be tasted all year round, seven days a week at their wine tasting room in the Blacksmith’s Cottage. The quaint cottage was built in the 18th century and is decorated with antique saddles and horse memorabilia.Chamonix is known for internationally acclaimed wines, which include a Methode Cap Classique Sparkling Wine, Sauvignon Blanc (a Fume as well as an unwooded), Chardonnay (a cellar master barrel selection), Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux Blend (Troika). Their wines vary from other South African wines due to the advantage of having an altitude variation (250m to 450m). As a result, each variety is planted in optimal position to its suitable microclimate.Taste and purchase any Chamonix product daily from 9:30 am until 16:30 pm in the old Blacksmith’s Cottage.

This lovely little boutique winery is situated just outside Durbanville. Personal attention is the motto of the tiny vineyard of Shiraz, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo and Viognier on Kronendal smallholding. Magdaleen’s Rhône blend is named “Mirari”, Latin for "to wonder at" – in honour of passionate friends and family members who assist with each harvest. Westerdale Road, Durbanville, Cape Town Closed Sundays, call before visiting – Magdaleen Kroon 082 499 0198

The tale of Meerendal's wine started in 1702 in the fertile slopes of the Tygerberg Hills. Today the legend continues with visiting families and friends enjoying superb wine and food. Meerendal’s award-winning wines are lovingly created by cellar-master Liza Goodwin. Hand-tended vineyards are planted with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinotage, Shiraz, Merlot and Pinot Noir. Gorgeous panoramic views over the vineyards and Boland Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for special occasions and Meerendal has become a favourite venue for weddings, launches, private functions, meetings and events. +27 (0) 21 975 1655 Vissershok Road, Durbanville, Cape Town. Cellar Tastings and Sales: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00 to 18:00 (Sun until 17:00).