The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek Leeu Estates, Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines

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Characterised by towering oaks, rolling vineyards, Cape Dutch architecture and French flair, Franschhoek dates back to 1688, when 150 Huguenots arrived in the region, armed with winemaking skills (and a throng of other attributes that contributed irrevocably to the course of our country’s history).

Heading into the valley, first-time visitors are often struck by how deep its Gallic roots run: from the French-named wineries, hotels and restaurants to the Parisian-style café society lining the eminently walkable high street to the classic, elegant wines produced here.

According to Vignerons de Franschhoek, there are 45 wineries in the region, ranging from regal and rustic to big-name and boutique, one as beautiful as the next, all of which produce astonishingly good wines. For the purposes of this article, we (sadly) couldn’t list them all. So we’ve chosen our top 10. We’d love to hear which are your favourites in the comments below.

Boschendal

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Boschendal
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Boschendal
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: The Werf at Boschendal

The current gold standard when it comes to wine-farm destinations, Boschendal ticks all the boxes, and exquisitely so! Stylish accommodation, a welcoming werf where night markets, puppet shows and other activities are hosted, a beautifully merchandised farm shop, and a kids’ club that would give some of the swankiest resorts in Mauritius a run for their money.

  • Food Visit The Werf for a casual fine-dining farm-to-table feast with floor-to-ceiling vistas of the massive vegetable and herb garden. The Deli serves sandwiches and burgers; or book a scenic picnic in the Rhône rose garden.
  • Wine The Cellar Door, under the oaks, is open on weekends and public holidays for wine tasting. Order a charcuterie board to accompany your wine, or try a choc-and-wine pairing…
  • Shop The newly renovated Farm Shop and Butchery is packed to the rafters with freshly baked goods, condiments and preserves, wholesome readymade meals and a curated selection of bespoke homeware.
  • Stay There are various luxury accommodation offerings at Boschendal, including self-catering cottages and a breathtaking mountain villa.
  • While you’re there Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy one of five mountain-biking trails, farm hikes or book a horse-riding experience. Kids between 5 and 14 years will want to spend every waking moment at the Tree House, an immersive and contained playground and pump track.

Contact 021 870 4200, enquiries@boschendal.co.za
Where to find it Pniel Road, Groot Drakenstein, Franschhoek

Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines Restaurant
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines Accommodation

On the slopes of the Dassenberg mountains, Leeu Estates is a 68-hectare wine farm home to Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines. Owned by Indian entrepreneur Analjit Singh, this estate is one of three farms he acquired after a serendipitous visit to Franschhoek in 2010, during which he “instantly and instinctively knew this was it!”. We can see why…

  • Food Le chêne, overseen by chef Darren Badenhorst, serves a varied and proudly South African menu underpinned by rigorous French technique. The contemporary interiors are pared-back and sophisticated, and there’s a deck with heavenly views of the garden, vineyard and mountain.
    New to the estate is La Petite Colombe, which moved from its corner at Le Quartier Français. Here, diners can expect the same level of exemplary fine-dining finesse as its Constantia counterpart, La Colombe. For those seeking a light meal and drinks, head to the bar.
  • Wine Designed by acclaimed Spanish Architect, Tomeu Esteva, the estate’s Wine Studio is a suitably beautiful space in which to appreciate the estate’s fine wines, produced by Chris & Andrea Mullineux. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through tastings of both the Swartland and Franschhoek wineries.
  • Stay Leeu Estates encompasses various luxury accommodation options, including six classically styled rooms within the immaculately restored Manor House, and cottages around the estate with sublime views of the surrounding vineyards, gardens and fynbos beyond.
  • While you’re there Go for a scenic stroll through the Bokkie Garden, book a luxury treatment at Leeu Spa, where you’ll find a deliciously inviting 15-metre-long pool and heated plunge pool, or visit the newly established Everard Read Gallery.

Contact 021 492 2455, info@mlfwines.com
Where to find it Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek

Anthonij Rupert

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Anthonij Rupert
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Terra del Capo at Anthonij Rupert
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Anthonij Rupert Wine Cellar

Tucked beneath the Groot Drakenstein Mountains, the illustrious L’Ormarins Estate is where Anthonij Rupert Wines produces award-winning vintages in state-of-the-art facilities. And, although wine takes centre stage, it’s the artful mix of heritage architecture, cutting-edge wine-making facilities, spectacular scenery, delicious cuisine, and a slew of other pleasurable attractions that make this a one-stop Winelands destination suited to any occasion.

  • Food Under the olives trees, with views of Franschhoek’s vineyards and mountains, the Terra del Capo tasting room does an Italian-style antipasti experience that is simply divine: seasonally inspired dishes accompanied by a selection of world-class wines.
  • Wine There is a choice of three wine tasting experiences, depending on your wallet and preference: either  Terra del Capo tasting room or in the stylish Anthonij Rupert Tasting Room.
  • While you’re there Pop into the Franschhoek Motor Museum for a sighting of 80 vintage cars, or enjoy a tram ride around the estate. The Estate Package includes lunch, wine, a tram ride and a museum visit – all for R650. There’s also a decadent high tea experience.

Contact 021 874 9004, tasting@rupertwines.com
Where to find it Anthonij Rupert Wines, R45 Wine Route, Franschhoek Valley, Franschhoek

La Motte

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: La Motte Museum
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: La Motte Farm Shop

Situated under the shade of majestic oak trees, this esteemed estate is home to a famed restaurant, a wonderful farm shop, tasting room, estate museum and an array of internationally recognised fine wine.

  • Food Named after South African landscape artist Jacob Hendrik Pierneef, Pierneef à La Motte restaurant offers a similarly creative streak, with chef Eric Bulpitt (former head chef of Faber at Avondale) at the helm of this fine-dining establishment.
  • Wine Renowned for their quality and elegance, from the aperitif-style sauvignon blanc and popular Millennium to the classic chardonnay, syrah and cabernet sauvignon, La Motte wines are available to taste in the estate’s tasting room.
  • Shop Pop into the farm shop for delicious artisanal bread and other take-home baked treats.
  • While you’re there Take in some history in the La Motte Museum or do a scenic hike through the surrounding property.

Contact 021 876 8000, info@la-motte.co.za
Where to find it La Motte, R45 Main Road, Franschhoek

Eikehof Wine Estate

Eikehof View
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Eikehof Wine Estate
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Eikehof

Surrounded by lush, century-old oaks, this family-owned winery dates back to 1903, and is still run by the passionate Malherbe family who gave it its name (“eike” means oak in Afrikaans). A hidden gem, the estate is perfect for a relaxed day of good wine with family and friends.

  • Food Enjoy a farm-fresh platter with your wine-tasting, or grab a blanket and enjoy it on the lawns, overlooking the vineyards and picturesque Drakenstein Mountains beyond.
  • Wine As a warm welcome when entering the tasting room, guests are invited to enjoy a complimentary sampling of the estate’s rosé.
  • Good to know The Stable under the old oak trees is an ideal venue for special occasions.

Contact 021 876 2469, info@eikehof.com
Where to find it La Motte, R45, Franschhoek, South Africa

La Petite Ferme

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: La Petite Ferme
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: La Petite Ferme Dining
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: La Petite Ferme Restaurant

With some of the best panoramas of the valley and surrounding mountains, La Petite Ferme has always had a decidedly well-heeled (and far-flung) reputation, not least for the superb collection of small-batch wines produced on the property, but also for the one-and-all appeal of its valley-facing front lawn.

  • Food The seasonal menu at the view-drenched restaurant offers an array of fresh, prettily plated starters, mains and desserts prepared by head chef Kyle Norris and his team.
  • Wine Despite being a comparatively small winery, LPF produces some of the most sought-after wines in the country, caringly produced by winemaker Wikus Pretorius who comes with barrelfuls of experience from working in the wine regions of France, California and Australia. Enjoy a selection of exclusive estate wines, either in the tasting room or in the garden.
  • Stay There are nine individually decorated rooms – five recently refurbished stylish Vineyard Suites, each with their own private pool and log-burning fireplace, overlooking the valley, and four Manor House Rooms that open onto a shared pool.
  • While you’re there Enjoy a leisurely walk, strenuous hike, or go mountain-biking on one of the estate’s fleet of bicycles. Alternatively, the front lawn is the ideal place to linger longer with a bottle of wine.

Contact 021 876 3016, reception@lapetiteferme.co.za
Where to find it La Petite Ferme, Franschhoek Road, Franschhoek

Haute Cabrière

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Haute Cabrière
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Haute Cabrière Cellar
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Haute Cabrière Restaurant

Owned by the Von Arnim family for generations, Haute Cabrière lies on the slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains and boasts exceptional views of the undulating valley beyond.

  • Food The restaurant’s terrace seating is a drawcard, particularly in times of Covid, when you can push back the glass doors and let the views (and ventilation) in. The menu, created by chef Nic van Wyk and his team, is a selection of à la carte dishes and shareable tapas. The bakery and deli is a must-visit for some of the best croissants this side of the Champs-Elysées. Stock up on sourdough, pastéis de natas and other ambrosial treats, as well as pantry staples, wine accessories and gifts.
  • Wine Housed in a stone cellar built into the side of a mountain with views into the underground barrel maturation room, the tasting room is where the fun happens. Don’t forget to stock up on some quality bottles before you head home!
  • While you’re there Stroll around the grounds before settling down on the sunkissed deck with a pre-lunch glass of CC.

Contact 021 876 8500, reservations@cabriere.co.za
Where to find it Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape

Mont Rochelle

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Mont Rochelle Estate
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Mont Rochelle Restaurant
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Mont Rochelle Hotel

Overlooking rolling meadows and vineyards that stretch out towards the distant mountains, this illustrious Richard Branson-owned estate offers visitors a serene spot in which to enjoy good food, scenic picnics and a wonderful selection of homegrown wines.

  • Food At Miko, Polish-born executive head chef, Arek Witaszek, concocts a selection of delectable breakfast, lunch and dinner options made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Those seeking a more relaxed ambience will love the estate’s sister restaurant, The Country Kitchen, while the scenic picnics are a must for an alfresco dining experience.
  • Wine The magnificent 40-hectare estate makes superb award-winning wine, whatever your preference. Visitors can sip away at the estate’s tasting lounge or enjoy a wine-paired meal.
  • Stay The hotel at Mont Rochelle has 22 stylish rooms, each with exposed-beam ceilings and oversized floor-to-ceiling windows offering killer views of the mountainous valley beyond.

Contact 021 876 2770, reception@montrochelle.virgin.com
Where to find it Mont Rochelle, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape

Maison Wine Estate

Maison Estate Chefs Warehouse
Maison Estate
Maison Estate Bedroom

Derived from the French word meaning “house”, Maison epitomises warm, Winelands hospitality, and celebrates slow, relaxed living. Set against the Franschhoek mountains, Maison’s pitch-perfect contemporary design creates the ideal canvas to enjoy an exquisite meal fuelled by top-notch wine.

  • Food Occupying a vineyard- and mountain-facing space next to an orange orchard, Chefs Warehouse at Maison is headed by chef David Schneider (a longtime Chefs Warehouse alumnus). As the other wildly popular restaurants in the Chefs Warehouse group, the emphasis is on superb (and award-winning) “global tapas” accompanied by excellent wines in sophisticated surroundings.
  • Wine Experience a curated range of award-winning wines in the picturesque tasting room.
  • Stay Since acquiring the farm in 2023, owners Seb Ackerstaff and Jessie Verdonschot have emblazoned their inimitable style stamp on the three meticulously designed villas, creating havens of tranquility and relaxation.

Contact 021 876 2116, info@maisonestate.com 
Where to find it R45, Franschhoek, Western Cape

Grande Provence

The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Grande Provence Estate
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Grande Provence Hotel
The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek: Grande Provence Restaurant

One of the most historic estates in the valley, Grande Provence is reminiscent of a French country escape, with a slice of homespun comfort thrown in. Known for its sweeping vineyards, accolade-accruing restaurant and wonderful wine-tasting facilities, the estate is a veritable hole in one, offering luxe lodgings, top-drawer wines, a gallery and a five-minute walk into the town centre.

  • Food Open on weekends only, the restaurant serves traditional South African cuisine with a modern twist, available à la carte, or as a three-course set menu, with or without wine. Guests might also enjoy a country picnic, before stocking up on take-home treats at the deli.
  • Wine Leading off the restaurant is the contemporary wine-tasting area with a cosy indoor fireplace, inviting guests to savour various of the estate’s award-winning wines.
  • Stay With five individually decorated rooms, The Owner’s Cottage is a stylish and intimate space that accommodates 10 people, while the La Provençale Villa sleeps four across two bedrooms. Complete with a pool, spacious lounge, dining room, garden and daily housekeeping, both are available to rent as an exclusive-use guesthouse, or on a per-room basis.
  • While you’re there Tour the on-site gallery and sculpture garden, which showcase some of South Africa’s finest and emerging artists.

Contact 021 876 8600, reservations@grandeprovence.co.za
Where to find it Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Main Road, Franschhoek

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Disclaimer:

The Inside Guide has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.

Time of publication: 19 April 2021

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6 Responses to “The Best Wine Farms in Franschhoek”

  1. Hannes tour's and shuttle service

    Please visit 100%black own winery in franschhoek on R45 Klein Goederust very good wines support local business

    Reply
  2. Carol

    Wine estate restaurants in the franschoek are

    Reply
  3. Ntutu Lupuwana

    Can someone pls kindly get back to me , I would love to do a booking for my self and my husband pls
    083 9977081

    Reply
  4. TEA VAN DER MERWE

    WE TRAVEL A LOT IN THE CAPE.AND WE LIKE TO KNOW THE WINE FARMS
    WERE TO GO TO;
    WE TRAVEL TO THE CAPE ON THE FIRST OF JULY 2021.

    Reply
  5. Asle Torset Skogstad

    Look forward to your presentations!

    Reply