Claire Gunn
Two appealing venues for a leisurely wine-tasting journey.
Ever since it was founded back in 1685, Boschendal has been known for its down-to-earth working-farm ethos and welcoming hospitality. Mature oaks, white-washed Cape Dutch farm buildings, gorgeous gardens (including a stunning organic vegetable garden supplying the restaurants), a sustainable approach to agriculture, not to mention the award-winning wines, make it a must-visit on your Franschhoek wine-tasting journey.
You can now hop off the wine tram at the Boschendal Farm platform and take a farm shuttle to one of the farm’s two wine-tasting venues. Along the way, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes peek into the dynamics of a working farm: free-ranging chickens, Duroc pigs, tractors, and perhaps a glimpse of the legendary Black Angus herd in the distance…
Wine-tasting under the oaks
Overlooking the glorious heritage rose gardens next to the farm’s old Rhone homestead, the Cellar Door tasting tables are laid out in the shade of a giant oak tree. It’s a tranquil and scenic spot at the other end of the farm, away from the bustle of the main Werf, serving a selection of platters to accompany the wine.
Book through DinePlan
Historic Werf buzz
Outdoor tables next to the Werf restaurant (or inside the old cellar) offer the whole tasting experience in the heart of the historic Werf. It’s a hop and a skip to the Tree House play area and picnic lawns, and perfectly placed to browse the tempting display of produce at the farm shop. Or move on to lunch at the Deli or Werf restaurant…
Tastings, pairings and platters
The same award-winning selection of varied wine flights is on the tasting menu at both venues. Choose between six straight wine tastings, perhaps accompanied by a platter of charcuterie from the on-site butchery or local cheeses.
Cost R250 (Premium Tasting: 5 wines)
R125 (Red Wine Tasting: 4 wines)
R85 (Cap Classique Tasting: 4 variations)
R85 (1685 Range Tasting: 5 wines)
R85 (White Wine Tasting: 3 wines)
R50 (Under the Oaks Tasting: 5 wines)
Or opt for one of the irresistible pairings celebrating Boschendal’s fresh produce:
Charcuterie Pairing Handmade at the farm butchery from free-range Angus beef and Duroc pork: 5 wines + pairings
Cheese Pairing Handcrafted by neighbouring Boland producers: 5 wines + pairings
Chocolate Pairing Specially created chocolates (also available to buy at the fabulous new Chocolate Pod): 6 wines + pairings
Cost R150 each
Book through DinePlan
Settle in for an afternoon of sensory sipping and take the last tram home.
Good to know Boschendal is a cash-free estate. Use card payments, Zapper or Snapscan.
It’s pet-friendly but dogs should be kept on leads in case of free-range chicken encounters.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5.30pm (last seating at 5pm)
Contact 021 870 4210, reservations@boschendal.co.za
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Pniel, Franschhoek
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