The Best Wine Farms in the Banhoek Valley

The early Banhoek was a fearsome place; in the early 1700s lions and leopards stalked its rocky corridors, with equally fierce hippos languishing in the nearby Berg River sending most early settlers running. The abundant wildlife combined with the dizzying height of the treacherous mountain passes gave this Stellenbosch ward its name, translating to “scared corner”. It was only the brave who first broke ground here.

Today, the Helshoogte Pass (“hell’s heights”) carves through the undulating mountain region, granting visitors much easier passage than previous explorers. Like a tablecloth pushed to the centre, the vines are planted on mountain folds, at elevations of between 350 and 640 metres. Leopards are still spotted prowling in its altitudinous peaks, the proof delivered in photographs from motion sensor cameras set up in some vineyards.

The coolest Wine of Origin ward in the Stellenbosch area, Banhoek Valley receives around 900ml of rain annually, meaning the majority of farms are dryland farmed, as there is always an excess of natural water.

Though one of the smaller wards in the Winelands, the collected estates more than make up for it with their excellent wines. The variety produced here covers the full spectrum of classic cultivars. The cool climate and high-diurnal swings from the varying altitudes result in periods of slow ripening, which ramps up flavour concentration while retaining acidity. Calling cards for the area are the cabernet sauvignons and Bordeaux blends as well as the fine, elegant whites.

Join us as we embark on a tour of the valley. And let us know which are your favourites in the comments below.

Tokara

“We get late-season snow, sometimes right down in the vineyards,” remarks viticulturist Aidan Morton on the undeniable coolness of the valley. Aidan has a deep understanding of this liminal place, in between Stellenbosch and this icy, eastern fringe of mountains; he has, after all, spent over 20 years understanding the terroir at the helm of Tokara’s viti team. Tokara is somewhat of a wine wonderland, every detail here is considered, based on the tenets of wine, food, art. Do the wine part in the exquisite glass walled tasting room, which gives you a feeling of flying above the vineyards. Food? There are two – fantastic – restaurants, Tokara Restaurant leads off the tasting room, and is the more fine-dining domain of rising star Carolize Coetzee. Then, a winding track away from here will take you to the Deli, where the dining is more relaxed and offers one of the Winelands’ best children’s playgrounds. Next door is the olive press; all of the estate’s award-winning olive products are available in the Deli to taste and purchase. And throughout, the art will take your eye on a journey.
Wine Tokara Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
To achieve such purity of cassis fruit is quite exceptional, accented with classic pencil shavings, and a deep, dark core. This is a beauty.
Opening times Daily, 10am – 5.30pm
Restaurant + Deli: Daily, 12pm – 2pm
Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – 8pm
Contact 021 808 5900, winelounge@tokara.com or reservations@tokara.com
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Thelema

Snaking though copse after copse of trees, the air gradually becoming thinner, flintier, mountain-tinged, you finally arrive at Thelema’s tasting room. Established in 1983 by South African wine legend, Gyles Webb, they were one of the first families to pioneer this area, quickly becoming famous for the The Mint Cabernet Sauvignon, with its distinct eucalyptol aromas. That vineyard has long been pulled out, but its range of wines continues to go from strength to strength. Son, Thomas Webb, is now the driving force into the future as general manager. Settle into the forested tasting room and taste both Thelema’s wines as well as Sutherland’s, their Elgin property.
Wine Thelema Rabelais 2020
Named for Francois Rabelais, 16–century French writer and all-round raconteur, this wine is made from only the very best parcels of cabernet and petit Verdot. It’s an inky, sumptuous tribute to its namesake, deeply complex and age-worthy.
Opening times Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Saturday + public holidays, 10am – 3pm
Contact 021 885 1924, info@thelema.co.za
Where to find it Off Helshoogte Road (R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Delaire Graff Estate

An oasis of luxury perched atop the Helshoogte Pass, Delaire meaning eyrie was so named for its spectacular bird’s eye view across the valley. Intense detail and hyper-luxury alight on every facet here; incorporating a state-of-the-art cellar, two restaurants (one is fine-dining) as well as high-end clothing and jewellery boutiques (yes, the owner is the diamond Graff). Acting as their own personal eyries are the sumptuous lodges at the edges of the property, designed to let all that spectacular scenery spill in, floating above Banhoek in a way the early explorers could never have imagined. Adjacent to this is the spa of dreams, ticking every box. Though it must be said, one of the major highlights of a visit here is to simply stroll about the property, taking in Laurence Graff’s private art collection featuring many famed local artists – in itself a privilege.
Wine Laurence Graff Reserve 2017
Like all things Delaire, this wine is the epitome of refinement; layered and complex cabernet sauvignon hewn from a unique site and a stellar vintage.
Opening times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Restaurants: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 2pm
Wednesday – Saturday, 6pm – 11pm
Contact 021 885 8160, info@delaire.co.za
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Miles Mossop Wines

“The beauty and intrigue of the Banhoek is the diversity; from soil types, slopes, aspects, sun intensity, rainfall, wind… basically absolutely everything that has an impact on what you can grow,” says celebrated winemaker Miles Mossop. The winemaker at neighbouring Tokara for 20 years before going on his own, Miles’ eponymous range celebrates what he cherishes: family and nature. While you can’t visit his winery, you can visit his valley – and, of course, drink his superlative wines.
Wine Max 2018
Named for Mossop’s son, this beautifully styled Bordeaux-esque wine has a plush, generously fruited palate, wrapped in tapered tannins with a classic dry finish. Pure class.
Opening times (sales) Monday – Friday, 8.30am – 5pm
Contact 082 413 4335, office@milesmossopwines.com
Where to find it Magia Farm, Glen Arum Road (off R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Bartinney Wine Estate

There’s a hidden quality to this beautiful estate, set deep into a mountain fold and threaded with fynbos its buildings blend into the natural landscape. Bartinney’s divergent vineyards are all planted on different aspects, so much so that each one requires its own pruning method. Proprietor Rose Jordaan, also known as the “fynbos whisperer”, has cultivated a special Cape Fynbos & Wine Tasting Experience, where fragrant bushels of endemic plants hang from the rafters. Or take in the stupendous views on the terrace, where charcuterie and cheese platters are available, too. The full-moon, live acoustic and vinyl evenings are worth making a turn for. Stay a little longer in the beautifully appointed self-catering guesthouses and enjoy access to the spectacular Banhoek Conservancy via their Skyfall mountain-biking trail.
Good to know Check out Bartinney’s Wine Bar in the heart of Stellenbosch.
Wine Bartinney Chardonnay 2020
Lifted and fresh, a pure expression of chardonnay grown at altitude underpinned by a seam of well-integrated oak.
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday, 10am – 5pm
Friday, 10am – 8pm
Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Contact 021 885 1013, info@bartinney.co.za
Where to find it Off Helshoogte Road (R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Capensis

Capensis is located on Fijnbosch farm, where the highest chardonnay vineyard in Stellenbosch practically touches the sky at a whopping 620 metres. The farm focuses solely on Cape chardonnay, producing just three wines; the grapes are sourced from a variety of sites, including those lofty Fijnbosch vineyards. Most recently they’ve unveiled Kliphuis, a reclaimed timber and stonework space open for tastings. And, just to show you the spirit of the place – growing on the lower slopes is the farm’s vegetable garden, the resultant veggies exclusively for their staff to take home.
Wine Capensis Silene 2019
Striking duality – rich citrus tones and dulce de leche lifted by a fine mineral acidity and a saline finish.
Opening times By appointment only
Contact 084 501 9472, concierge@capensiswines.com
Where to find it Fijnbosch Estate, Zevenrivieren Road, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Oldenburg Vineyards

“This valley draws you in,” says winemaker Nic van Aarde, of Oldenburg Vineyards. “When I first saw this view of the Rondekop [‘round mountain’], I was mesmerised.” Indeed the views through the wide glass doors of the tasting room are magnetising. The recently refurbished space is a tranquil setting to taste the estate’s three excellent ranges, and guests are treated to a complimentary platter of snacks. You may very well feel like you don’t want to leave… and if so, why not book the 200-year-old Cape Dutch homestead? Set in a secluded spot, with a sprawling private garden, it’s just the spot to soak up the mountainous beauty of the Banhoek.
Wine Oldenburg Cabernet Franc 2018
Cabernet franc is this valley’s actual silver bullet, and making its way into various blends as well as increasingly successful single varietals. Rose musk, tealeaf, a hint of spice before an elegant palate, and a moreish red cherry finish.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 885 1618, tastingroom@oldenburgvineyards.com
Where to find it Zevenrivieren Road, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Hogan Wines

Jocelyn Hogan Wilson is fast gaining a reputation as a cult winemaker with her incomparable set of wines. Speaking of sets, one of her favourite things about the valley is the 100-year-old Banhoek Tennis Club, located nearby the entrance to her family’s farm. “Everyone is welcome; it’s a social club,” she enthuses. Started in 2014, Hogan Wines is a small, family-run business. Jocelyn adds: “For us, making wine in South Africa right now is about being part of a revolution that is changing the ideals of winemaking.”
Good to know They’re currently are working on a project to set up a small tasting pod at their dam that can be booked by appointment.
Wine Hogan Divergent Red Blend 2019
A characterful blend of carignan, cinsault and cabernet sauvignon, this bright wine is all juicy red fruit flavours and beguiling spice.
Opening times TBC
Contact 021 885 1275, jocelyn@mweb.co.za
Where to find it Dwarsriviershoek Farm, off Zevenrivieren Road, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Zorgvliet Wine Estate

The region’s most historic wine estate, this grand property dates back to the late 1600s. With a long history of being family-owned, the van der Merwe family has held custodianship since 2002. One can easily imagine the flamboyance of yesteryear as you wander about the palatial grounds; a shrug of Cape Dutch buildings sits immutably on the scenic landscape. Enjoy the tangible sense of history with a picnic in the ample gardens or seated at the restaurant, with the requisite playground for your little ones. Likewise soak in the atmosphere of antiquity with a wine tasting hosted in the original Manor House, built in 1692. A popular wedding spot, Zorgvliet also offers classic Cape accommodation with a variety of options to choose from. (Though, you don’t have to get hitched to stay in them.)
Wine Richelle 2018
A world-class Bordeaux-style blend that has all the gravitas and complexity you’re looking for in the category. On the flip side, try the Silver Myn Argentum 2020, also a Bordeaux blend, but more accessible, the wine was named for the great hoax of its time: in 1740 a soldier tricked the authorities into opening a silver mine by shooting bullets into the walls that left misleading silver streaks.
Please note The cellar is closed until end-October 2022 for renovations.
Opening times By appointment only
Contact 072 182 7571, info@zorgvliet.com
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Vuurberg

Rockstar winemaker Donovan Rall makes the wine here in a tiny garagiste cellar that sits snuggly next to the historic Zorgvliet Estate. Vuurberg (“fire mountain”) is owned by Sebastiaan Klaassen, who lives here for half the year and in his native Holland for the other six months. The philosophy for the wines is to blend different cultivars from different regions for an inimitable take on what makes for Cape regional blends.
Please note Since quantities are limited, and so is staff, the farm is not open for tastings.
Wine Vuurberg White 2019
Gorgeously complex aromatics of honeysuckle blossom, alongside notes of pineapple and peach, while the palate is rich and concentrated, lifted with refreshing acidity.
Contact 072 182 7571
Where to find it Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch

Rainbow’s End

“We invite you to sip on our stoep,” is the feeling you get when entering this small, family-run estate, which is exactly where the tastings happen: the verandah stretching out above the barrel cellar. This terrace, of course, overlooks the spectacular mountain scenery that almost seems par for the course in this valley. They’ve named their tranquil home, perfectly – you do feel as if you have stumbled upon a pot of gold when visiting.
Good to know Tastings, hosted by Fennel Adams, cost R100 for five wines. All wines are available by the glass and there are build-your-own platters to snack on.
Wine Rainbow’s End Merlot 2019
Transcendent purity of red berry fruit that just makes you smile and you can’t help but imagine those mountains their vineyards fan upon.
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 885 1719, tasting@rainbowsend.co.za
Where to find it Off Zevenrivieren Road, Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Le Pommier

Wander a little farther on from Zorgvliet into what was once its apple orchard and you’ll find Le Pommier.. Charm abounds here, taste the wines, walk the grounds, and dine at the restaurant of the same name. This bountiful estate offers a variety of country-chic accommodation, the perfect place to slow down and take a bite out of Banhoek, and all it has to offer.
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 11pm
Sunday, 8am – 6pm
Contact 021 885 1269, gm@lepommier.co.za
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch
Wine Le Pommier Rosé 2022
Like the best rosy, juicy apple, this rosé is crunchy and full of bite with lovely, lingering strawberry notes.

Experience Banhoek like a local

“This is open secret to us in the Banhoek,” says Jocelyn Hogan Wilson of Hogan Wines, “but did you know you can enter the Banhoek Conservancy, starting at Old Bethlehem Farm in Kylemore? Open to all, it has amazing bike and hiking trails. Expect fresh air, some of the most magnificent scenery, beautiful mountain water (our daughter trades bottles of the water for biltong with her school friends), as well as waterfalls, owls, caracals, baboons, leopards, eagles and so much more. Join us!”

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