South Africa Wine Estates

Cool sea breezes and a mountainous microclimate ensure that the grapes ripen slowly which contributes to the smooth quality of the wine. Stanford Hills Winery produces an award winning Pinotage under the label of Jacksons Pinotage. The last three vintages have all been awarded four stars in the John Platter guide. Grapes are hand picked and selected, to ensure that only the best quality grapes are included in the final product. Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay vines were planted, and are expected to produce in 2008.

Situated on the foothills of Steenberg Mountains after which it is named, this historic estate is the oldest wine farm in the picturesque Constantia Valley, one of South Africa's premier wine growing regions. Steenberg is the southern-most wine farm in the Constantia Valley, the vines benefiting greatly from the cooling influence of summer sea breezes from nearby False Bay. Vineyards have been planted with a number of cultivars chosen to suit the soils, microclimate and altitude of the slopes of Steenberg. These include their flagship cultivar Sauvignon Blanc as well as Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Shiraz and Nebbiolo. Their most renowned wines, Sauvignon Blanc Reserve and Catharina’s, a red Bordeaux blend named after the founder of Steenberg, have won many awards under the expertise of winemaker John Loubser. The state-of-the-art cellar has the capacity to produce around 70 000 cases. A major feature of the cellar is the vinotheque, where bottled wines are kept under ideal conditions until ready to be enjoyed. Need to know? The wine tasting room is open seven days a week from 10:00 – 16:15.

Situated 125kms from Cape Town, Tulbagh has become a secret find for the avant-garde.  The wine farm, Twee Jonge Gezellen, is in the North-West corner of this intriguing valley, with the vineyards reaching up to the east-facing slopes of the Saron Peak mountain, while the cellar nestles expectantly at the foot of the mountains.

Sip soetes and swirl your glass in Montagu’s oldest winery. Uitvlucht Winery is named after the farm Uitvlucht, on which the picturesque town of Montagu was founded. Uitvlucht also happens to be the oldest winery in Montagu. Uitvlucht Winery features a fine selection of sophisticated wines as well as full-bodied sweet Montagu Muskadel and Port for which Montagu has become renowned across the globe. Climb aboard the Muscat Express! Experience a two hour scenic tractor tour through this historical town with a glass of Muscadel in hand. View significant scenery and historical buildings while experienced guides tell all the stories. The highlight of the trip is the winetasting in the barrel aging cellar of Uitvlucht Winery. Here you can experience a candle light wine tasting of Montagu’s famous wines. Need to know? Wine sales and tasting hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturday 8:30am to 1:30pm. Uitvlucht Winery is a member of the Biodiversity Wine Initiative.

Officially part of the Helderberg Wine Route, Vergelegen is undeniably the best reason to visit the town of Somerset West. Not only are the Cape Dutch buildings national treasures, but the estate produces a range of South Africa's best wines.A notorious history precedes the grandiose estate, primarily built by Dutch East India Company slaves brought by the governor Simon van der Stel. Today the farm is owned by a subsidiary of the large mining company Anglo American, who restored the farmhouse to its original magnificence.Stroll through the massive grounds planted with chestnut and camphor trees. Beautiful ponds and streams make this one of the most tranquil places to picnic or chill out in. The interpretative centre provides an interesting overview of the history and environment of Vergelegen.Open daily 9:30am – 4pmLady Phillips Restaurant: 021 847 1346.

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.