While a day exploring the big wine names in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek is never a day wasted, we’ve put together a list of 7 of the best wineries that are slightly off the beaten track, each which have something very special to offer.
Glenelly (Stellenbosch)
The glass museum on the estate is located underground and contain over 160 pieces of glass pieces dating from XVII and XVII century Rome, as well as works from Salvador Dali, Daum and some local artists. It’s a journey through time, like none other.
Glenelly estate is committed to sustainability and is especially well known for their incredible award winning white wines. Enjoy a delightful meal at the Bistro and soak up breathtaking views from the deck.
Hidden Valley (Stellenbosch)
If spectacular views, fine food and delicious wine sounds like a the making of a perfect lunch, then Hidden Valley should be on your travel itinerary. Hidden Valley’s Overture Restaurant is owned by South Africa’s top award winning chef, Bertus Basson.
Located high on the winding path on a Stellenbosch hill, Hidden Valley is a rare find. Fantastic wines and food (almost) too beautiful to eat.
Noble Hill (Franschhoek)
Noble Hill is a small family run affair offering a splendid wine tasting, including a memorable sparking wine (MCC). The restaurant specialises in authentic Mexican cuisine and there’s plenty of tranquil spaces to lunch under the trees in the courtyard, or picnic style on the lawns. It’s kid friendly, and the little ones love it because because they get sent off with a little restaurant packed picnic lunch with which to go and explore. Perfect for families with children aged 5 and older.
Oldenburg (Stellenbosch / Banhoek)
This upmarket boutique winery sells small quantities of handcrafted wines. In 2013 they added a magnificent Bordeaux blend to their portfolio, the Rhodium, which, wine connoisseur, Tim Atkin awarded 91 points. Expect to be blown away by the award winning wines and their views, which you will be hardpressed to matched anywhere in the world. Unfortunately, this winery does not have a restaurant.
Conde-Stark wines (Stellenbosch / Jonkershoek)
As pretty as a postcard – there’s no other way to describe this hidden gem. Tucked away in between the Stellenbosch mountains, this estate will not only give you a unique tasting location with its tasting room situated in the middle of a pond, it also is one of the few wineries in South Africa that has Petit Syrah on offer.
Their Postcard Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch and cheese boards are available at the tasting room.
Altydgedacht (Durbanville)
Unpretentious and a little rustic, Altydgedacht is a firm favourite with locals. Not only are the wines well priced, it’s Pinotage made the South African top 10. If Reisling, Gewurztraminer and Barbera are some of your favourite cultivars, then you will feel like you hit the jackpot at this Durbanville winery. The restaurant menu is fresh and generous and geared at al fresco dining.
Bonus: it’s also kid friendly.
Remhoogte (Stellenbosch)
How about a spot of game viewing while you do a wine tasting? Remhoogte is small family run farm with a chilled tasting deck overlooking the Zebra, Wildebeest and Springbok that roam the farm fields. More-ish artisanal cheese boards and their own craft beer adds to the appeal.
To avoid disappointment, remember to call in advance and make reservations where necessary.
