Stellenbosch is known for its magnificent valleys, endless vineyards and greenery. These wine farms offer incredible views, picturesque scenery and wines from the finest grapes.
Appreciating the finer things in life, by taking a step back to unwind, is sometimes necessary but often breaks bank. Look no further because MatieMedia drove around town to find the best wine farms which host the finest and most affordable wine tastings.
Beyerskloof – The Proudly Pinotage
South Africa’s champion of signature red wines, Beyerskloof, is a charming family-run winery that rests at the foot of the Cape Winelands.
The self-proclaimed King of pinotage’s legendary reputation finds its grandeur in its impressive top-quality oaked pinotages and view of Stellenbosch’s Simonsberg Mountain.
“Beyerskloof was the first South African wine farm to win an international wine award for Pinotage in 1991,” said Francois Jacobs, wine consultant and sale representative at Beyerskloof. This charming wine farm houses easy-drinking local red wines that sell out both on distant shores and home soil.
“Even though we are a wine farm, there is no pressure to drink wine if that isn’t to your taste. In our lounge we serve an array of whiskeys, brandies and other spirits,” said Johandre Booysen, barman at Beyerskloof.
In addition to the well-developed wine range and selection of spirits, the winery’s Red Leaf restaurant offers culinary delights as an accompaniment to the vast wine range. Beyerskloof is definitely a top-notch Winelands destination that offers a pleasurable and scenic experience.
Wine Tasting – R30 for 5 wines.
Johandre Booysen, barman at the home of Pinotage – Beyerskloof. PHOTO: Caira Blignaut
Rustenburg Estate– The hidden secret off the beaten track
The Rustenburg Estate that was founded in 1682 is the perfect location for those seeking an escape into countryside bliss.
Nestled in the valley of Stellenbosch’s Simonsberg Mountain, Rustenburg Estate’s entrance opens with green vines and pastures that decorate the 2km drive up to the secluded Cape Dutch style homestead.
“A fun fact about this farm is that it actually used to be a dairy farm,” said Roland Marais, tasting room ambassador.
The spiral staircase leads down into the bright-wooded tasting room and tranquil sitting area that faces the courtyard and well-manicured gardens. The vineyard’s landscape, coupled with the themed gardens, allow for a memorable few hours spent in the majestic Winelands.
“Rustenburg is the perfect wine farm if you’re looking for a little getaway from the town’s hustle and bustle,” said Carmon de Beer (22), Stellenbosch University (SU) Engineering student.
Wine Tasting – R40 for 6 wines.
Roland Marais, tasting room ambassador at the hidden gem of Stellenbosch’s wine farms, Rustenberg Wines. PHOTO: Caira Blignaut
Simonsig – MCC Pioneers
Pioneers of the wine industry, Simonsig gain their stature from their groundbreaking innovation – the production of South Africa’s first Méthode Cap Classique (MCC), which is a sparkling wine made in the style of French champagne.
“This wine farm is very unique in the fact that it helped shape the South African wine landscape, particularly with our introduction of MCC,” said Tumi Mohale, Simonsig wine advisor.
Simonsig provides you with the opportunity to bask in the sun and overlook the actual vineyard in which the grapes are grown.
Guests are also exposed to locally inspired dishes from the winery’s seasonal menu that uses quality produce sourced from organic gardens and reputable suppliers.
“I am from Cape Town and I am always happy to make the trip to visit this wine farm,” said Tiffany Ally, guest at Simonsig.
The open-planned wine farm opens into a garden full of white tables, umbrellas and enthusiastic staff that contribute to the aesthetically pleasing atmosphere while you enjoy some bubbles, afternoon sun and delicious snacks.
Wine Tasting – R60 for 6 wines.
The lively inventor of the first MCC in South Africa – Simonsig Wine Estate. PHOTO: Caira Blignaut
Devondale Golf and Wine Estate – where golf and wine meet
If you’re looking for a place to unwind following your adventures in the Winelands, Devondale Golf and Wine Estate is the perfect place to do so. With panoramic views of the picturesque golf course and distant Bottelary Valley vineyards, this Estate is a definite showstopper.
“Don’t be fooled by the fact that it is a golf estate, this extensive manor holds an amazing range of wines that perfectly accompany the scenic view,” Rachel Piggott (22), Economics Honours student.
This residential estate offers an upmarket dining experience, at the Devondale Restaurant where you can enjoy a few memorable hours spent in high-end bliss. The restaurant offers a diverse menu on a deck which wraps around the building and overlooks the golf course.
Devondale Golf and Wine Estate is the perfect location for events such as corporate functions, date nights and house dances.
Wine Tasting – R40 for 5 wines.
Tony Mamkumba, head barman at Devondale Golf and Wine Estate, speaks about the refined experience at the Estate. PHOTO: Caira Blignaut
Louiesenhof
One of the last farms as you enter into Stellenbosch, is Louiesenhof. The family-friendly wine farm hosts a play area for children whilst the parents indulge in the farm’s vast range of wines.
The rustic bistro-styled set-up of the wine farm gives a pleasant and comfortable setting to the open-planned farm. With the winery housing a 4 star guest house, wedding venue, restaurant and tasting room, Louisenhof gains its popularity from its versatility.
“We don’t only do wine tastings, but also have a range of ports and brandies that can be added to a tasting,” said Natasha Davids, waitress at Louiesenhof.
With the farm celebrating its 22nd year of bottled wines being sold on the South African wine market, Louiesenhof aims to continue to produce locally sourced wines in harmony with nature, as they keep the environment and ecology in mind throughout their production.
Wine Tasting – R30 for 4 wines.
Natasha Davids, waitress at the family-oriented wine estate – Louiesenhof Wines PHOTO: Caira Blignaut
With the privilege of living in what some may regard as the hub of wine production in South Africa, consider taking some time out to immerse yourself in the wonders of Stellenbosch’s Winelands – even on a student budget.
– Kadzamira Modjadji and Caira Blignaut