A region famous for its wines, accommodations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa are surrounded by miles and miles of vineyards producing high-quality grapes. As such, the biggest attractions of the province include its numerous wineries, which offer wine tastings and fine dining. But of the numerous wineries in the area, which ones are worth your time? Here are the top 5 wineries in Stellenbosch.
Delaire Graff Estate
Located to the east of the Stellenbosch city center, the estate is situated on the crest of the Helshoogte Pass, on the slopes of the Botmaskop peak. Owned by Laurence Graff, founder of Graff Diamonds, it is home to one of the most state-of-the-art wineries in the southern hemisphere. Many of the wines grown and aged on this estate have won numerous international awards. These include the Delaire Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, which has a 4 ½ stars rating in the 2012 Platter Guide, the Delaire Chenin Blanc 2010 and the Delaire Cape Vintage Port 2009, which were both awarded with a Double Gold status at the 2011 Veritas Awards.
Tokara
Also on the crest of the Helshoogte Pass, Tokara is famous for its 650-ton cellar, where their award-winning wines were aged. These include the Reserve Collection Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010, which won a Double Gold Medal at the Five Nations Wine Challenge in 2011, and the TOKARA Stellenbosch Chardonnay, which won a Double Gold at the Veritas Awards in 2010. Purchased by GT Ferreira in 1994 and originally intended as a residential development, the Tokara farm also produces brandy and olive oil. Meanwhile, the property is also home to a gallery of fine art, delicatessen, and restaurant.
Jordan Wines
While it is located west of the city center and farther from the famed Helshoogte Pass, the Jordan Wines estate has also produced numerous world-class wines. Examples are their 2009 Riesling, which won Trophy Gold at the 2011 Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show; and their 2009 Nine Yards Chardonnay, which won a Gold Medal at the 2011 Decanter World Wine Awards. Apart from the great wine, the estate owned by Gary and Kathy Jordan is also home to a fine dining restaurant, which can be used for different functions and events. It is also located near several establishments offering Western Cape accommodation, such as the Cultivar Guest Lodge.
Warwick Estate
Named after the Warwickshire regiment of Colonel William Alexander Gordon, the former owner of the farm who fought in the Anglo-Boer War in 1902, is now operated by the Ratcliffe family. This family owned and run estate has produced notable wines such as the Warwick Trilogy 2006, which won Gold in the 2010 Santam Classic Wine Trophy. Unlike other wineries that specialize in fine dining, the Warwick Estate encourages something a little more down to earth: gourmet picnic baskets. Packed with one of their wines, these can be eaten at several areas around the estate. Another unique offering is their silver and nickel Wedding Cup, from which a couple can drink at the same time without spilling anything.
Uva Mira Vineyards
Located on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountains, this family owned vineyard has Matthew van Heerden, winner of the 2011 Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year Award, as its winemaker. It then comes as no surprise that their Uva Mira Red Blend and Single Vineyard Chardonnay won not only a Gold, but the Regional Trophy at the 2010 Decanter World Wine Awards. Apart from making high-quality wine, the vineyards are also a great example of sustainable farming, with the raw materials grown and harvested using organic methods.
With their wide range of wines, a visit to these 5 wineries is a must for any traveler in Western Cape, South Africa. So after settling in your Stellenbosch accommodation, treat your taste buds to a wine experience like no other.
