Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
5 of the best wine estates to visit
THE Western Cape is the home of the vineyards with some of the best wines coming from Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Constantia. Viticulture has become a part of our heritage and some wines would be fit for Dionysus.
There are plenty of reasons to visit a wine farm besides just wine tasting.
Wine farms are a great antidote to city stress, as they are set among nature, with the sounds of birds and the smells of fragrant jasmine a common occurrence. Some offer walking trails and in colder months, may feature cosy fireplaces.
You can enjoy gourmet food paired with these delicious wines and also revel in the history, art and architecture of these wine estates.
Here are some of the finest wine estates in the country.
La Motte, Franschhoek
If you are a “lover of fine things”, then you need to visit this classic wine estate. La Motte is in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley or “Valley of Dreams” in the Cape Winelands.
It’s home to the finest wines, recognised internationally for exceptional quality.
In addtion to its picturesque setting and historic charm, it has a beautiful hiking trail to explore some of the estate’s greatest natural assets and breathtaking Franschhoek Valley views.
It offers a guided tour to explore abundant birdlife, a protea garden, sustainably farmed vineyards, a wealth of flora, resident mammals and reptiles, and vistas of the Franschhoek Valley.
The estate has a tasting facility, featuring a large fireplace for winter tastings, where you can taste La Motte’s internationally-acclaimed wine portfolio, and a farm shop where visitors can relax and enjoy a farm tea complemented by a selection of
treats from the shop. Unfortunately, the restaurant is currently closed.
Delaire Graff Estate, Stellenbosch
Also known as the “Jewel of the Cape Winelands”, Delaire Graff Estate is in the farming district of Stellenbosch.
It’s an estate that boasts lodges, a spa, a restaurant and, of course, wine, making it an ideal travel destination.
The estate offers luxury accommodations with views of the Cape Winelands that don’t skip a beat in the opulence.
Delaire Graff’s vistas stretch all the way to Table Mountain and False Bay, exquisite botanical gardens, and exclusive lodges offer no ordinary winery experience.
There are two restaurants to choose
from on the property, Indochine Restaurant and Delaire Graff Restaurant.
Indochine currently has an Indian-inspired menu for those seeking to experience different tastes from around the world.
You can also enjoy a tutored wine experience while you sample some of South Africa’s finest vintages accompanied by spellbinding views across Simonsberg Mountain.
Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch
Spier is one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms with a recorded winemaking history dating back to 1692.
Rooted in heritage, the farm has a vibrant and conscious energy.
It is also home to one of the largest collections of contemporary South African art.
And of course, it has an impressive collection of award-winning wines.
Spier Wine Farm has a hotel which features village-style buildings, lush green lawns and 80 spacious rooms next to the calming Eerste River.
It has lush picnic spots, a farm café, a hotel restaurant and Vadas Smokehouse and Bakery.
This farm estate has plenty of activities for the quiet traveller to enjoy, such as wine tasting, a food garden, vineyard Segway tours, a craft market, a spa, a Spier Mountain bike trail and self-guided walks.
Steenberg, Constantia
The Cape’s first farm, Steenberg, was established in 1682 and is a destination steeped in heritage. It’s roughly 30 minutes from the vibrant heart of
Cape Town.
Steenberg Farm boasts the 5-Star Steenberg Hotel & Spa, with 24 rooms encapsulating the dictum of understated luxury, offering spectacular views and discreet, personalised service.
Visitors can also dine at Tryn or sample the farm’s popular bistro-style fare and tapas at Bistro Sixteen82.
A complete destination, the farm houses an exceptional winery, producing some of the finest Sauvignon Blanc in South Africa, along with several other celebrated varietals available for tasting.
The property also has a golf estate and has been named as one of the best conditioned courses in Golf Digest’s South Africa’s annual Top 100. It also attracts golfers seeking a premium golfing experience.
Tokara, Stellenbosch
If you love good food, great wine, and unparalleled views, clear your schedule and escape for a day to Tokara.
Set on the upper slopes of the Simonsberg mountain, the vineyard and olive grove overlook False Bay and Table Mountain.
Tokara is a family-owned vineyard and derives its name from the founders’ children, Thomas and Kara.
With various dining spaces, wine tasting, and art, interlinked by gentle walks between olive groves and vineyards, Tokara is the perfect day out for couples, families, or singles.
Experience a wine tasting and indulge your appreciation for fine wines and Extra Virgin Olive Oils with knowledgeable wine ambassadors on-hand to answer your questions and take you through their winemaking process.
If you’re interested in something a little more filling, book a table at Tokara Restaurant or pop over to the Tokara Delicatessen, the estate’s gourmet food shop.
It’s child friendly and offers a seasonal menu, olive oil products, and other goodies to take home.