The 30 Best Wine-Tasting Farms in The Cape

Cape Town is bordered by not one, but six, venerable viticultural regions – all less than an hour’s drive from the city centre – where hundreds of wineries beckon, with the promise of wide-open spaces, stunning outlooks and world-class wine!

From easy-drinking to critically acclaimed, the Cape’s highly coveted wines are enjoyed across the globe – from Sydney to San Francisco – but there’s something inordinately special about enjoying them at their place of origin, on the farms where they were produced.

So, we went in search of the top wine-tasting experiences – from Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek to Durbanville, Constantia and Somerset West – where you can enjoy fruits of the vine while drinking in the spectacular settings.

Which are your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Where would you like to go wine-tasting?

Wine-tasting in Stellenbosch
Wine-tasting in Franschhoek
Wine-tasting in Paarl + Simondium
Wine-tasting in Somerset West
Wine-tasting in Constantia
Wine-tasting in Durbanville

Wine-tasting in Stellenbosch

Stark-Condé Wines

Wineries

In one of the most naturally beautiful locations in the Jonkershoek Valley, this celebrated estate and tasting room flaunts spellbinding vistas. Even James Mukosi (sommelier at Rust en Vrede) agrees: “The view is just stunning, especially on a sunny day. It’s a serene and relaxing destination.”
Wine-tasting The tasting room offers a unique experience – even by Stellenbosch standards, where the competition is tough. Hovering over the dam, the venue has oversized glass windows that maximise views of the Jonkershoek mountains. Visitors are invited to taste a selection of wines, most notably three cabernet sauvignons, each grown at different elevations on the mountainous estate.
Cost R175 (Best of Estate Tasting: includes 2 classic whites + 3 premium reds)
R140 (High Altitude Tasting: 3 premium reds)
R95 (5 wines)
R75 (4 wines)
R55 (3 wines)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm
Contact 021 861 7700, info@stark-conde.co.za
Where to find it Oude Nektar Farm Jonkershoek Valley, Stellenbosch
Book through DinePlan

Rust en Vrede

Surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens dotted with sweet-smelling rose bushes and towering oaks, Rust en Vrede welcomes guests with warm and welcoming arms, making it the ideal setting for a wonderful day out with friends and family.
Wine-tasting Taste the full range of wines in the Tasting Room (located in the estate’s cellar) or under the shade of towering oaks, as the warm and knowledgeable tasting staff take you through each variant. You can also go on an informal guided tour of the underground cellar, or choose to combine your wine-tasting with a Winemaker’s lunch, which we did and thoroughly enjoyed.
Jono Le Feuvre (of HanDrinksSolo Wine Community) rates it, too: “Rust & Vrede oozes a sense of old-world class blended with new-world sex appeal – in terms of decor and wine styles. The Tasting Room and restaurant are stunning in their modern starkness, but for a slightly cosier experience, ask to be seated down in the barrel room.”
Cost R60 (Estate Tasting: 3 wines)
R130 (Single Vineyard Tasting: 4 wines)
R150 (Full Range: 6 wines)
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm
Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact 021 881 3881, sales@rustenvrede.com
Where to find it Annandale Road, Stellenbosch

Quoin Rock Wine Estate

On the slopes of the majestic Simonsberg Mountains just outside of Stellenbosch, Quoin Rock’s serene, vineyard-dotted terrain is a fitting canvas to enjoy all the pleasurable pursuits offered on the estate, not least of all the wine!
Wine-tasting Sommelier Duane Jansen and his team deliver an array of tantalising tasting options (cultivated by winemaker Schalk Opperman and viticulturist Nico Walters) that are pitch-perfect. Enjoyed in the elegant restaurant, the menu includes CC, chardonnay, a white blend, shiraz and a red blend.
Good to know Walk-ins allowed for groups of five or less.
Cost R300 per person (R150 deposit required)
R300 (additional charcuterie or cheese platter)
R400 per person (picnic)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Contact 021 888 4740, winelounge@quoinrock.co.za
Where to find it Quoin Rock Wine Estate, Knorhoek Road, Stellenbosch

Bartinney Private Cellar & Tasting Shed

Perched on the Botmaskop Mountain in the Banhoek Valley, this historic wine farm boasts awe-inspiring views of the Drakenstein and Simonsberg ranges, with a tasting cellar on site, and a small passionate team of staff for an intimate tasting experience.
Wine-tasting The wonderful selection of wines on offer – cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc and chardonnay – are served inside the warm tasting cellar or outside on their two terraces, either upstairs or down. Gosia Zieliñska (restaurant manager at The Test Kitchen) gives the Wine & Fynbos Experience a thumbs up: “I highly recommend taking a seat on the terrace, and enjoying the astonishing panoramic views over the valley and Simonsberg.”
Cost R50 (3 wines: cost waived for wine purchases of R1 500 or more)
R75 (Wine & Fynbos Experience: 3 estate wines + farm-grown fynbos)
R100 (Vertical Chardonnay Tasting: 4 wines)
R100 (Vertical Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting: 4 wines)
Opening times Tuesday – Thursday, 10am – 5pm
Friday, 10am – 8pm
Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Contact 021 885 1013, tastingshed@bartinney.co.za
Where to find it Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch

Oldenburg Vineyards

The winding stretch of road between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek is arguably one of the most beautiful mountain passes in the world, snaking its way past a handful of vista-drenched, internationally renowned wine estates. Oldenburg Vineyards is one such destination. Nestled in a corner of the Banghoek Valley, somewhere between the Drakenstein and Simonsberg mountains, this 40-hectare family-run winery is a hidden slice of paradise. At the heart of the farm lies Rondekop – the iconic rounded that creates a unique terroir for the vineyards planted on and around it.
Wine-tasting Oldenburg’s tasting room, a stone’s throw from its luxurious homestead, is the perfect spot to while away an afternoon, sampling some of the farm’s award-winning wines. Visitors have the choice of six tastings – all utterly delicious.
Cost R95 (<CL° Tasting: 2 wines)
R140 (Oldenburg Vineyards Series Tasting: 6 wines)
R250 (8 Elements Tasting: 6 wines)
R260 (Rondekop Tasting: 3 wines)
R300 – R550 (Vertical Tasting: 4 wines, selection changes monthly)
R300 – R550 (Library Tasting: 3 wines, selection changes monthly)
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 885 1618, tastingroom@oldenburgvineyards.com
Where to find it Zevenrivieren Road, Banghoek Valley, Stellenbosch

Meerlust

Welcoming visitors to the estate with a majestic palm-and-oak-lined driveway, leading all the way to the historic manor house, Meerlust Estate has been in the Myburgh family for eight generations, operating as a working wine farm since 1756. Now dubbed a National Monument, the estate emanates a unique style, charm and heritage that blend seamlessly with spectacular surroundings.
Wine-tasting The cosy indoor wine shop doubles as the tasting room, where passionate wine connoisseur Trish Lombard, and her assistant Carol Agus, take visitors through a relaxed tasting of the full range of estate red and white wines.
Cost R30 (refundable if you purchase wine)
Opening times Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Saturday, 10am – 2pm
Contact 021 843 3587, info@meerlust.co.za
Where to find it  Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch

Waterford Estate

The picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley is home to this scenic estate, whose understated architecture – of terracotta and bricks – was designed by architect Alex Walker in conjunction with winemaker Kevin Arnold. A gurgling fountain at the entrance sets the scene for an unforgettable day in the country.
Wine-tasting Offering a plethora of unique tasting experiences, the tasting room has something for everyone – whether you’re an old-timey oenophile or a novice. Says Gosia Zieliñska (restaurant manager at The Test Kitchen): “The famous chocolate-and-wine pairing and vintage tasting are unique! In addition to these cellar-door experiences are two vineyard experiences you must do: the Wine Drive Safari and Porcupine Trail Walk.”
Cost R295 (Library Collection Tasting)
R125 (Waterford Estate Experience)
R125 (Salt-and-Wine-Tasting Taste Journey)
R115 (The Jem Tasting)
R95 (Wine & Chocolate Experience)
R95 (Portfolio Tasting)
R75 (Waterford Summer Tasting)
R1 450 (Wine Drive Safari)
R650 (Porcupine Trail Walk)
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 880 5316, cellardoor@waterfordestate.co.za
Where to find it Blaauwklippen Road, Stellenbosch
Book through DinePlan

Tokara Wine & Olive Estate

On the southern slopes of the Simonsberg Mountains, home to exceptional vineyards since the 17th century, Tokara Wine Estate on the heartbreakingly beautiful Helshoogte Pass is easy to miss, but you’ll be glad you didn’t.
Wine-tasting Surrounded by striking artwork, the tasting lounge overlooks vines, olive trees and mountains, adding an impossibly beautiful backdrop to an already-wonderful experience, where visitors are invited to enjoy an array of tastings. Wayve Kolevsohn (head sommelier at Ellerman House) rates Tokara as her top wine-tasting destination: “World-class wine presented in an architectural masterpiece of a cellar, and a tasting room overlooking greater Stellenbosch. You must try the Director’s Reserve white and red wines.”
Cost R100 (Flagship Tasting)
R100 (Limited Release Tasting)
R120 (Reserve Tasting)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm (last tasting at 5.30pm)
Contact 021 808 5912, winelounge@tokara.com
Where to find it Helshoogte Pass, Stellenbosch

Muratie Wine Estate

Almost as old as time itself, this Stellenbosch estate (founded in 1685) captures the very essence of the Cape’s history inside its every nook and cranny. Everything from the buildings to the artefacts and trees are relics of a bygone age, yet wonderfully at home in the present.
Wine-tasting History buffs, walk this way! Tastings take place in the cobwebbed Tasting Room (complete with old paintings and stained glass); the beautifully maintained, old-styled George Paul Canitz room (which honours famous Stellenbosch painter and farm owner); or amid the cellar’s weathered-looking, old wine tanks.
Here, you really will taste (and feel) the past, complemented by the winemakers’ passion and painstaking approach.
Cost R60 (Standard Tasting: 5 wines)
R95 (Premium Tasting)
R80 (Chocolate Pairing Experience)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 865 2330, info@muratie.co.za
Where to find it Knorhoek Road/R44, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch

Wine-tasting in Franschhoek

Boschendal

Dating back to 1685, Boschendal’s rich agricultural heritage is palpable throughout the estate, with its rambling fruit orchards, massive herb and vegetable gardens and rolling vineyards yielding fresh and delicious bounty season after season.
Wine-tasting With its long tables set under towering oak trees, The Werf Restaurant’s outside area is the estate’s most popular wine-tasting spot. Here, you can enjoy a variety of tasting options, as well as a selection of farm-to-fork cheese and charcuterie plates and even oysters.
Good to know If you’d prefer, opt for your wine-tasting at The Werf Wine Bar (inside) or Cellar Door on the opposite end of the estate, next to the rose garden and Manor House. The Cellar Door is only open in the winter on Saturdays and Sundays.
Cost R350 (Premium Tasting: 5 wines)
R180 (CC Tasting: 4 variations)
R105 (Red Wine Tasting: 4 wines)
R90 (1685 Range Tasting: 5 wines)
R85 (White Wine Tasting: 4 wines)
R75 (4 CCs + Chocolate Tasting: 1 glass each)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm (last seating at 4pm)
Contact 021 870 4210, reservations1@boschendal.co.za
Where to find it Pniel Road, Groot Drakenstein, Franschhoek
Book through DinePlan

Paserene

This boutique wine farm, with estates in Tulbagh and Elgin as well as Franschhoek, offers an unprecedented wine-tasting experience surrounded by manicured gardens and uninterrupted views of the Franschhoek mountains.
Wine-tasting Overlooking a sparkling farm dam through floor-to-ceiling glass windows, the stylish tasting room is inspired by, and themed around, the migratory swallow. Savour a selection of four estate wines from either the Paserene Range or Elements Range, complete with a delicious selection of small plates and platters for two.
Cost R95 (Elements Range)
R200 (Paserene Range)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 876 2714, info@paserene.co.za
Where to find it Paserene Farm, R45, Franschhoek
Book through DinePlan

La Motte

Under the shade of ancient oaks, this esteemed estate is home to a restaurant, farm shop, tasting room, museum and an array of internationally recognised fine wine.
Wine-tasting Renowned for their quality and elegance, La Motte wines are available to taste in the scenic tasting room, whose floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the cellar and maturation room. A fireplace and couches set the scene for cosy tastings in winter.
Cost R30 (La Motte Straw Wine Tasting)
R30 (La Motte CC Tasting)
R50 (Cellar Tour, maximum 16 people)
R60 (Current Vintage Tasting)
R60 (Virtual Wine Tasting)
R80 (Hanneli R Tasting)
R120 (Limited Release Tasting)
R250 (Vinoteque Tasting, older vintage wines or syrah varietals)
R250 (Varietal Glass-Specific Wine Tasting)
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm
Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Contact 021 876 8000, tasting@la-motte.co.za
Where to find it La Motte, R45 Main Road, Franschhoek

Haut Espoir

Spread across 23 hectares of shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot and cabernet franc vines, this boutique wine farm (which means “high hope”) prides itself on nature conservation, dedicating its remaining land to fynbos restoration, a riverine ecosystem, olive groves and a vegetable and herb garden.
Wine-tasting Tastings and farm tours are by appointment only, to allow each visitor an intimate, hands-on experience of the handcrafted wines on offer.
Cost R150 (waived when purchasing wine)
Opening times Arranged when booking
Contact 021 876 4000, rob@hautespoir.com
Where to find it 3 Excelsior Road, Franschhoek

Haute Cabrière

This beautiful farm on the slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains has been in the Von Arnim family (who’ve cared for it passionately and proudly) for generations, and boasts the most exceptional views of the valley beyond.
Wine-tasting Housed in a stone cellar that’s built into the side of a mountain, the beautiful tasting room was conceived by legendary cellar master and winemaker Achim von Arnim, whose epic sabrage demonstrations are still talked about today! With views into the underground barrel-maturation room, guests are invited to embark on an informative – and dare we say, delicious – journey of tastings and explore the winery’s history wall, glass in hand.
Light snacks are available, but if you’re looking to end the experience in true Haute Cabrière fashion, head to the terrace restaurant for lunch with a view.
Cost R40 (Fan Favourites Tasting: 4 wines)
R40 (Poetic Pinot Noir Tasting: 3 wines)
R65 (Cap Classique Discovery Tasting: 3 CCs)
R65 (Cellar Master’s Selection Tasting: 5 wines)
R90 (Pierre Jourdan + Macaron Pairing)
R250 (Haute Collection Tasting: 4 wines)
Opening times Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm
Saturday, 10am – 6.30pm
Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Contact 021 876 8500, reservations@cabriere.co.za
WhatsApp: 064 928 1044
Where to find it Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek

Wine-tasting in Paarl + Simondium

Nederburg Wines

Perfectly positioned just outside Paarl, Nederburg Wines offers breathtaking views of the Drakenstein mountains and the farm’s vineyards and gardens. Add to that a rich history of wine production, dating back to 1791, and an array of tasting experiences, and you have a wonderful Winelands escape on your hands.
Wine-tasting Enjoy a leisurely tasting in the stately Manor House, or sip and savour under the oaks with a delicious something from the kitchen. The friendly and knowledgeable team will guide you through a wide range of wines, suited to your preference. Designated drivers, the bar serves a wide range of nonalcoholic ciders, beers and cocktails, while kids and the young at heart will be delighted with the popular hot-chocolate experience.
Cost R60 (standard wine-tasting)
R165 (Oyster and Bubbly pairing)
R500 (Five senses experience)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm (closed on Tuesdays)
Contact 021 862 3104, info@nederburg.com
Where to find it Sonstraal Road, Paarl
Book through DinePlan

Druk My Niet

Situated on a biosphere reserve, among 24 hectares of endangered fynbos and several species of proteas, this boutique winery is known for its environmentally friendly farming methods and scenic surrounds. It’s also home to a view-drenched tasting room and a scattering of beautiful farm cottages available for rent.
Wine-tasting By appointment only, visitors can do private tours of the winery, learning about the area and production methods before enjoying a tasting at the beautifully designed tasting room that overlooks the Paarl Valley.
Cost R190 (waived when purchasing 6 bottles or more)
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 4pm
Contact 021 868 2393, alex@dmnwines.co.za
Where to find it Bodal Road, Daljosafat, Paarl

Babylonstoren

Dating back to 1692, this 200-hectare farm in the Drakenstein Valley, almost halfway between Franschhoek and Paarl, is owned by the inimitably stylish former magazine editor Karen Roos,  who has masterfully created an incredible destination. A string of sensory pleasures awaits, but ultimately the luxury is in the integrity and authenticity of the setting.
Wine-tasting Next to the vintage wine cellar is a modern yet warm tasting room, where oenophiles are invited to sit back, relax and enjoy a few glasses of excellent homegrown wine, accompanied by farm-fresh platters. You can also arrange a cellar tour, to see where the magic happens.
Cost R80 (standard tasting: 7 wines)
R40 (express tasting: 3 wines)
R295 (75-minute-long cellar tour, includes tasting and a visit to the new wine tunnel. 10am; 1pm; 4pm)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 863 3852, enquiries@babylonstoren.com
Where to find it Klapmuts Simondium Road, Simondium

Vrede en Lust

The historic Cape Dutch manor and farm buildings of Vrede en Lust date back to 1688, beautifully restored by the Buys family who bought the farm in 1996 and have continued to harness the authentic working wine-farm vibe. Winemaker Karlin Nel produces award-winning boutique wines known for their balance, elegance and reflection of terroir.
Wine tasting Offering beautiful views over the vines of the Simonsberg and surrounding mountains, the wine-tasting room is a comfortable modern building with a wide, open-air terrace, and three wood-burning stoves indoors that keep things toasty on cooler days. A popular stop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram route, the estate offers a varied selection of wine-and-food pairings – most notably its Tapas Tasting.
Cost R80 (Premium Tasting: 5 pre-selected wines; waived after purchases of R300 or more)
R100 (Flagship Tasting: 5 wines including Barrique, Kogelberg Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, Boet Erasmus and Cabernet Franc)
Dalewood Cheese Pairing R150 (5 Dalewood cheeses paired with 5 wines)
Lindt Excellence Pairing R150 (5 Lindt Excellence dark chocolates paired with 5 wines)
Tapas Tasting R300 (5 Tapas paired with 5 wines)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm (last tastings 4.30pm)
Contact 021 874 1611, info@vnl.co.za
Booking is essential for wine pairings and groups larger than eight.
Where to find it Vrede en Lust Estate, Intersection R45 + Klapmuts Road, Simondium

Avondale

Claire Gunn

This 300-hectare, family-owned estate at the foot of the spectacular Klein Drakenstein Mountains is home to Faber Restaurant and Ochra Deli, and is renowned for its sustainable and holistic farm methods and, of course, exceptional wine.
Wine-tasting Chandeliers and a beautiful piano set the scene in the cosy, elegantly adorned Tasting Gallery, where visitors are invited to enjoy seven handcrafted wines, known as Avondale’s Magnificent Collection. There is also the option of experiencing an Eco-Wine Safari.
Cost R75 (7 wines)
Free cellar tour daily from 10am to 3pm.
R300 (Eco-Wine safari, by appointment only)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact 021 863 1976, wine@avondalewine.co.za
Where to find it Lustigan Road, Klein Drakenstein, Paarl

Wine-tasting in Somerset West

Waterkloof

On the south-facing slopes of the Schapenberg Mountains, with views of False Bay beyond, Waterkloof is perched at the top of a steep ravine and hugged in an amphitheatre-like cove – creating the perfect stage (and terroir) for an unforgettable wine-tasting adventure.
Wine-tasting Sample some of the region’s finest white, rosé and red wines in the tasting lounge, which is especially lovely in winter when the fireplace is aglow, while the view-drenched balcony is the only place to be when the sun is out.
Says Gosia Zieliñnska (restaurant manager at The Test Kitchen): “Waterkloof’s modern tasting room has the most spectacular views of False Bay where you can enjoy their delicious terroir-driven wines. You can explore the estate’s natural beauty during a guided full-circuit walk.”
Cost R80 (6 wines: False Bay range)
R120 (Premium Tasting: 6 wines from Waterkloof, Circumstance, Seriously Cool + Circle of Life ranges)
R215 per platter
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 10am – 4.30pm
Contact 021 200 2559, zandri@waterkloofwines.co.za
Where to find it Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, Somerset West

Cavalli Estate

In the Helderberg’s magnificent Golden Triangle, Cavalli (Italian for horses) is, obviously, famed for its magnificent livestock; but it’s also regarded among foodies and scenery-seekers as a top-drawer wining-and-dining destination.
Wine-tasting A true underground experience, the tasting room at Cavalli is found on the lower-ground level of the estate – offering a perfect spot to escape hot Somerset West summers, or cosy up to a crackling fire in winter. The art gallery alongside the tasting room means you can browse art while sipping.
Cost R100 (Premium: 6 wines)
R50 (Lifestyle Range: 3 wines)
Opening times Wednesday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm
Contact  021 855 3218, info@cavalliestate.com
Where to find it Strand Road, Somerset West

Idiom

Set against the backdrop of a granite mountain range with majestic views of the ocean, vineyards and mountains, Idiom’s monumental restaurant and tasting room allows visitors to experience the spectrum of cultivars while enjoying the Bottega family’s warm hospitality.
Wine-tasting The glass-walled restaurant and tasting room combines old-world Roman architecture and contemporary design, with an outdoor view-drenched terrace. Idiom’s signature pairings are worth doing before sitting down for lunch.
Says Jono Le Feuvre (of HanDrinksSolo Wine Community): “Idiom’s full range of wines, made up of fascinating Italian cultivars, as well as their signature blends and an extensive range of imported Italian wines are all available for sampling. An essential education for any aspiring grape hunter! And for your designated driver, the views of the vineyards and striking Brutalist architecture will console them while they watch you living it up.”
Cost R85 (single varietal tasting: 4 wines)
R125 (Idiom blends tasting: 4 wines)
R250 (Idiom structured canapés: 4 canapés + 2 white + 2 red wines)
R250 (3 wines + 3 macarons)
R250 (3 canapés + 3 red blends)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Contact 021 858 1088, reservations@idiom.co.za
Where to find it Da Capo Vineyards, Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, Somerset West

Vergelegen

Reminiscent of a fairytale garden, Vergelegen Wine Estate is as expansive as its “far away” moniker suggests, yet is conveniently located in Somerset West in one of the most fertile valleys in the country (between the Hottentots Holland and Helderberg Mountains).
Wine-tasting The historical wine-producing estate offers guests (including the Queen of England) a more relaxed experience than its counterparts, with a wine-tasting centre overlooking an extensive herb garden that’s open for lovely, laidback tastings daily.
Cost R30 (Premium Tasting: 4 wines)
R60 (Reserve Tasting: 4 wines)
R80 (Vineyards Tasting: 3 wines)
R100 (Flagship Tasting: 3 wines)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 8.30am – 4pm
Contact 021 847 2100, info@vergelegen.co.za
Where to find it Lourensford Road, Somerset West

Wine-tasting in Constantia

Beau Constantia Wine Estate

Although the entrance may sneak up on you, you’ll be glad you made the sharp turn into this breathtaking estate, famously home to Chefs Warehouse. The stylish tasting room boasts spectacular views over the Constantia Valley as far as the eye can see.
Wine-tasting Encased in oversized glass windows, offering unobstructed views from Hout Bay to Hangklip, the tasting room is where you get to sample the beautiful wines. When the sun is out, pull up a seat at one of the outdoor wooden tables above the vineyard-dotted slopes and let the views do their thing.
Cost R100 – R160 (complimentary when you purchase a case)
Opening times Tuesday – Sunday, 11am – 6pm
Contact 021 794 8632, reservations@beauconstantia.com
Booking is essential.
Where to find it 1043 Constantia Main Road, Cape Town

Klein Constantia

One of the oldest (dating back to 1685) – and arguably one of the most beautiful – wine estates in the Cape, Klein Constantia is home to a scattering of heritage buildings tucked under ancient oak trees, perched on the upper foothills of the Constantiaberg mountains.
Wine-tasting Overlooking spectacular views of rolling vineyards leading the eye towards False Bay, the indoor tasting room and cellar is warm and contemporary, offering a lovely, offering a lovely environment to enjoy a selection of estate wines.
Chris Groenewald (resident cork puller at Culture Wine Bar) rates Klein Constantia as one of his top 10 wine-tasting spots, saying: “It is worth going here just to taste the Vin de Constance. Its history is incredible, and it is without a shadow of a doubt one of the best sweet wines produced in South Africa, and arguably the world.”
Cost R150 (Sauvignon Blanc tasting: 3 wines)
R150 (Signature Tasting: 5 wines including Vin de Constance)
R450 (The Vineyard Drive: a 45-60-minute drive through the vineyards, stopping off at the dam)
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact 021 794 5188, info@kleinconstantia.com
Booking is essential.
Where to find it End of Klein Constantia Road, Constantia
Book through DinePlan

Buitenverwachting

Founded by the Cape’s first governor, this historic wine farm is rich in history and bucolic charm. Home to Peter Tempelhoff’s restaurant, Beyond, the estate is surrounded by sweeping vineyards and expansive lawns shaded by ancient oaks, making it a coveted destination for families, couples and those seeking an authentic wine-farm experience without venturing too far.
Wine-tasting Housed in a traditional thatched-roof wine cellar, the tasting centre offers delicious platters to accompany your wine that can be enjoyed at wooden tables on the sheltered terrace or on the lush lawns (in spring and summer).
Cost R70 (5 wines)
R340 (Harvest or Veggie for 2)
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Contact 021 794 5190, info@buitenverwachting.com
Where to find it 37 Klein Constantia Road, Constantia

Steenberg Vineyards

The oldest farm in the Constantia Valley, Steenberg Vineyards produces award-winning wines with a spectacular setting to match: verdant vineyards, mesmerising mountains, and an indigenous garden boasting dazzling water features and intriguing metal sculptures.
Wine-tasting Steenberg offers guests a selection of wine-tasting experiences, with a wine tasting bar, tasting lounge and outdoor terrace to choose from.
According to Wayve Kolevsohn (head sommelier at Ellerman House): “Their Cap Classique selection, sauvignon blanc and merlot are high up on my do-not-miss list. Head over to Bistro 1682 after your tasting for some tasty tapas.”
Cost R80 (Express Tasting: 3 wines)
R110 (Classic Tasting: 5 wines)
R150 (Bubbly Tasting: 4 variations)
R200 (Flagship Tasting: 6 wines)
R250 (Cheese-and-Wine Pairing: 4 wines + 4 cheeses)
R250 (1 Cap Classique + 6 wines)
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm (last tasting is at 4.30pm)
Contact 021 713 2211, winetasting@steenbergfarm.com
Booking is essential.
Where to find it Steenberg Road, Constantia Valley, Constantia
Book through DinePlan

Wine-tasting in Durbanville

Groot Phesantekraal

Just outside the hustle and bustle of Durbanville, Groot Phesantkraal is a tranquil, otherworldly escape, with a 400-year-old history. Fourth-generation owner André Brink and his wife Ronelle, were the first to plant vineyards on this working farm, which today produces the spoils of their boutique wine range.
Wine-tasting Inside the old stable, the indoor wine-tasting venue offers visitors a laidback environment in which to taste a selection of wines. When the sun is out, tastings take place on the grassy terrace, overlooking sweeping vineyards and farmlands beyond. Afterwards, enjoy a cheese and charcuterie platter or lunch if you’re peckish.
Cost R60 (Standard Tasting: 4 wines)
R80 (Premium Tasting: 4 wines)
Opening times Tuesday – Friday, 8am – 3.30pm
Saturday + Sunday, 9am – 2.30pm
Contact 021 825 0060, restaurant@phesantekraal.co.za
Where to find it Klipheuwel Way, Durbanville
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De Grendel

This scenic restaurant and wine estate on the slopes of the Tygerberg Hills, between Durbanville and Bellville, continues to live up to its reputation as the World Luxury Restaurant Award winner in 2017.
Wine-tasting Drink in the views from the vineyards towards Table Mountain as you enjoy your tasting in the glass-encased patio, or inside the cosy lounge adorned with plush ottomans and couches.
Cost R100 (Premium Tasting: 6 wines)
R120 (Flagship Tasting: 6 wines)
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm
Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Contact 021 558 6280, tasting@degrendel.co.za
Where to find it Plattekloof Road, Panorama, Durbanville Wine Valley

Diemersdal

In the heart of Durbanville wine country, Diemersdal Estate has been brought to life by the Louw family (six generations deep). With an outdoor seating area and view-drenched interior, this historic estate boasts a relaxed, country atmosphere with the added appeal of panoramic vistas of hill-top farmlands.
Wine-tasting Pull up a seat inside the cosy tasting room or outside on the sun-soaked terrace and enjoy an array of award-winning wines. Top off the experience with a Dalewood cheese platter or vegetable crisps.
Cost R50 (Estate Tasting: 6 wines)
R70 (Reserve Tasting: 6 wines)
R100 (Flagship Tasting: 6 of the best estate wines)
Opening times Mondays – Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Contact 021 976 3361, info@diemersdal.co.za
Where to find it Koeberg Road, Durbanville

Maastricht Wine Estate

This family-owned wine estate (where the Louws have been cultivating wine for over 30 years), is tucked among the rolling hills of the fertile Durbanville wine route and offers magnificent views all the way towards Cape Town and the ocean beyond – only 10km away!
Wine-tasting The passionate Louw family will take you through their handcrafted wines inside the newly renovated tasting room. You can even opt for a plate of traditional Dutch bitterballen to accompany your tasting (Maastricht is named after the city in the Netherlands), or savour a seasonal cheese and meat platter.
Good to know Wine-tasting is on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cost R60 (6 wines)
R80 (6 wines + CC)
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Contact 076 540 5105, info@maastricht.co.za
Where to find it Tygerberg Valley Road, Durbanville

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