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The British are becoming more knowledgeable about both South African white
wines, with their fresh fruity elegance and the reds, full-bodied with a
distinct bouquet. White wines lead the market. Popular grapes are Chenin
Blanc, Cape Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Leading red
varieties are Cinsaut, Pinotage, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and at the top of the
league, Cabernet Sauvignon, which merits being laid down for at least 10
years.
"The natural habitat in the Cape is more than favourable,"
observed wine buff Hugh Johnson, a fact known to all South African wine
farmers. The winter rainfall and Mediterranean climate of the Cape,
together with its rich, fertile top and sub-soils, ensure the growth of
strong and healthy vines - ideal conditions found nowhere else in the
world.
Jan van Riebeeck, the first Commander of the Cape, recognised the
remarkable potential of viticulture shortly after establishing a shipping
supply base at Table Bay in 1652, badgering his superiors at the Dutch
East India Company to supply him with vine cuttings from Spain, France and
Germany. His persistence paid off - less than seven years after he had
arrived he was able to write in his diary on February 2, 1659:
"Today, so praise be to God, wine was pressed from Cape grapes for
the first time."
He mentions nothing about the quality of the wine. Since he and his fellow
settlers had little prior knowledge about wine making, one can speculate
that the first vintages may have been disappointing. If so, the Cape's
wine drinkers would have noticed a distinct improvement following the
installation of his successor as Commander, Simon van der Stel, who
arrived in the Cape in 1679. Van der Stel explored a long verdant valley
east of the present-day Cape Town, decided that its rich soil was perfect
for viticulture and established the Stellenbosch vineyards, today one of
the cornerstones of South Africa's wine production. Indeed, so keen was
van der Stel on wine, that he set up his own estate, Groot Contantia,
which tourists can still visit today. So van der Stel laid the first
foundations of South Africa's important wine trade.
A further contribution to South Africa's wine industry
resulted in the expulsion from France of the Huguenot Protestants, who
emigrated to South Africa. Many of these experienced wine producers settled
in an area subsequently named Franschhhoek
(French Corner), which also became an important wine growing region.
During the 18th century the Cape's wine industry flourished as the
Napoleonic Wars cut off the supply of French wines to Britain and South
African vintages were imported instead. By 1822 - with the Cape now under
British rule - wine exports exceeded all other exports from the Cape,
saving the colony from bankruptcy.
In 1886 however, South Africa's wine growers were faced with ruin when the
disease phylloxera found its way into the vineyards. However, by using
American vine cuttings, the estates' vines recovered. In fact, by 1918,
they were producing a large surplus, which forced down prices. As a
result, the Co-operative Winegrowers Association of South Africa (KWV),
was formed. Its main objective was to direct, control and regulate the
sale and disposal of the wine produced by its members. Today, such
controls and regulations are no longer required. Yet more than 5,000 wine
makers are still shareholders in the organisation and over half of the
wine sold in the UK is of KWV origin.
A popular way of discovering the joys of South African
wines is on a day trip from Cape
Town - either self-drive or on an organised excursion by a local travel
organiser. Devotees of the grape however can spend several days - weeks
if they wish - finding out about the subtle differences between the various
types, there are so many estates to visit. In all, there are 13 wine routes
to explore - and 2,000 varieties of wine to sample!
The simplest way of enjoying the wines is with a generously portioned
South African meal. A Cape lobster complimented by a dry white wine or a
tender steak accompanied by a full-bodied red, are experiences in
themselves. In addition to savouring the vintages, tourists can enjoy the
idyllic countryside, - with its rugged, blue-tinged mountains, admire the
architecture of the Cape Dutch homes, soak up the sunshine and simply fall
in love with the bewitching charm of the Cape.
- Stellenbosch
Only 35 minutes away from Cape Town lies the second oldest city of South
Africa. Commander van der Stel already recognised in 1679 the fertility of
this long valley located at the Eerste River, and decided not only to
establish a city but also a wine growing region.
Stellenbosch
is regarded as the wine capital of South Africa, with its 23 private
wine estates and 5 corporations. More than 280 wines can be tasted on
the wine estates – accompanied at some of them by cheese savouries.
Stellenbosch opened the first Wine Route of the Cape in 1971, inspired
by the French Route du Vin and the German Wine Routes.
Stellenbosch Tourist Information: Tel:021/883 3584/9633, Fax: 021/883
8017, Stellenbosch
Wine Route: 021/886 4310, Fax: 021/ 886 4330.
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Blaawklippen
Blaawklippen was established during Stellenbosch’s founding 300 years
back. White, red, port and sparkling wine are produced 3,9 km outside the
wine town. The wine estate has often received awards for its Zinfandel and
Cabernet Sauvignon.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mo.- Fr.: 09h00 - 17h00 and Sa.: 09h00 - 13h00
Cellar Tour: Mo.- Fr.: 11h00 and 15h00 and upon request during high season
(1 December until 31 January). Group excursions can be arranged.
Lunch: Mon.- Sat: 12h00 - 14h00, (from Oct. to April).
Tel:021/880 0133, Fax: 021/880 0136.
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Kanonkop
Small, but great: according to the experts Kanonkop produces the best
Pinotage (a cross between Pinot Noir and Hermitage). Their red wine has
been awarded prices more than once - the Kanonkop Pinotage was recognised
as the "Wine of the Year" in 1991. The wine farm with its
fruity, full-bodied high-quality products is only 9 km away from
Stellenbosch.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mon. - Fri: 08h30 & 13h30 - 16h30, Sat:10h00 -
13h00
Cellar Tours: by appointment. Tel: 021/884 4656
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Neethlingshof
Since Hans Schreiber purchased the historic Wine farm with its 273
hectares in 1989, Neethlingshof has become famous as the most modern wine
producer in South Africa. With his wine maker Günter Brözel at his side,
Schreiber was awarded the most sought after distinction, that of South
Africa’s greatest farm. 3,7 km outside Stellenbosch 16 different grape
varieties are cultivated, for instance, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon
Blanc amongst the white, and Cabernet, Pinotage and Pinot Noir amongst the
red.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mo. - Fr.: 09h00 - 17h00 Sa./So.: 10h00 - 16h00.
The Lord Neethling Restaurant offers chinese meals. Tu. - So.: 12h00 -
14h30. Buffet lunch: So.: 12h00 - 14h30 , Dinner: 19h00 - 22h30
Palm Terrace has convention facilities and can cater for 75 people in a
wine cellar; Tel:021/883 8988, Fax: 021/883 8941.
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Spier
South Africa’s oldest wine farm was founded in 1692. Only a 25-minute
drive from Cape Town and 5 minutes from Stellenbosch, the visitor may
expect a truly cultural experience. The newly renovated and expanded
complex features a 1 000 seater open-air amphitheatre which regularly
offers classical and jazz concerts, a conference centre - The Spier Wine
Centre, where Cape Wines and international wines can be tasted and
purchased. The three restaurants offer culinary specialities. The Spier
Cafe offers lunch, tea and cake, the Taphuis serves solid pub meals and
the Jonkershuis specializes in authentic Cape Cuisine and gourmet style.
Picnic lovers may select their own picnic basket from the various
delicious home-made delicacies, on offer at the farm stall - and then to
be enjoyed along the river.
Wine Tasting: Mo. - Fr.: 9h00 - 17h30 , Sa./So. 10h00 - 16h00.
Sales: Daily from 9h00 to 17h00.
Lunch: Mo. - So.: 12h00 - 14h30 ,
Dinner. Tel: 021/881 3096, Fax: 021/881 3087
Recommended Restaurants
Restaurant Doornbosch, Old Strand road, Stellenbosch,
Tel: 021/886 6163, Fax: 021/887 5079
Die Volkskombuis, Old Strand road, Stellenbosch,
Tel: 021/887 2121, Fax: 021/883 3413
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Paarl
Situated a little further from the cooling ocean than Stellenbosch, in the
picturesque Berg River Valley is the wine growing area of Paarl .
Climatically less influenced by the mountain ranges in the west, this area
is dependant on irrigation. Long hot summers and moist winters are almost
ideal for vine growing. Its Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling have
received international awards along with its red ranging from Cabernet
Sauvignon to Merlot. This wine farm is regarded as the “cornerstone of
Afrikaans”. A visit to the Language Monument erected at the edge of the
town, is as popular as a visit to Paarl’s largest wine festival - The
Nederburg Auction - which is held at the end of summer and regarded as a
must on the international wine calendar. Paarl’s wine route is the
country’s second oldest and includes 14 cellars.
Paarl
wine route: Tel: 021/872 3605, Paarl Publicity Association: Tel:
021/872 4842 or 872 3829.
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Nederburg
Situated in an idyllic setting, Nederburg offers South Africa’s largest
range of quality and award -winning wines. The famous Nederberg Auction is
an annual event held on this estate. It produces a wide variety of white
and red wines as well as sparkling wines.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mo.- Fr.: 8h30 - 17h00, Sa.: (Nov - Feb) 9h00 -
13h00.
Cellar Tours: by appointment.
Picnic lunches: Nov - Feb (advance reservation)
Tel: 021/862 3104, Fax: 021/862 4887.
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Laborie
The mighty KWV co-operative with its Paarl headquarters offers a wide
selection of wines at the distinctive Laborie Estate and Laborie
Restaurant. KWV wines may be tasted here and in turn ordered back in
Europe after your return. KWV wines are for export only and not sold in
South Africa. The historic building was converted into the Laborie
Culinary Temple which offers a la carte as well as traditional dishes.
The Laborie Restaurant: Lunch: Mo. - Su.: 12h30 - 14h00 ,
Dinner: Tu. - Sa. : 19h30 - 21h15 ,
Tel: 021/807 3094, Fax: 021/863 1955
KWV: Tel: 021/807 3008, Fax: 021/863 1942
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Rhebokskloof
Situated on the border to the Paarl Nature Reserve, this historic farm has
a new image since its change of ownership. White, red wines and sparkling
wines are produced in this stimulating environment. Three restaurants are
available. A tour of the wine lands can be done by four wheel drive.
Wine Tasting: Mo. - Fr. 9h00 - 17h30 , Sa./So. 10h00 - 16h00,
Sales: Daily from 9h00 to 17h00.,
Lunch: Mo. - Su.: 12h00 - 14h30,
Dinner: We./Fr./Sa. 19h00 - 24h00,
Tel: 021/863 8386, Fax: 021/863 8504
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Constantia
South Africa’s oldest, yet shortest and smallest wine route is the producer
of extraordinary quality. Favoured by the cool breezes of the Atlantic
and Indian Ocean the ripening process of the grape achieves the very
best results, an advantage for all wine makers wishing to produce noble
wines. During the founder years under Simon van der Stel, Constantia
was one large wine farm. After his death the area was divided into three
estates: Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia and Buitenverwachting. Only
a twenty minute drive from Cape Town will put you on the beginning of
the Cape wine routes.
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Groot Constantia
Simon van der Stel selected this farm to build his home on. With cool
breezes, regular rainfall, fertile soil, Groot
Constantia proved to be a blessed part of nature.Large numbers of
visitors from all over the world are attracted by its historic ambience,
restored main building and formidable cellar.
Wine Tasting: Daily 10h00 - 16h00,
Wine Sales: Daily 10h00 - 17h00,
Cellar Tour: (Nov - June) hourly 10h00 - 17h00. (Jul - Oct, 11h00 &
15h00); Tel: 021/794 5128 Fax: 021/794 1999
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Klein Constantia
This tastefully restored estate has won various awards during recent
years. Red and white wines are under strictest quality controls.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mo. - Fr.: 9h00 - 17h00, Sa.: 9h00 - 13h00,
Cellar Tour: During tasting and by appointment,
Tel: 021/ 794 5188, Fax: 021/794 2464
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Buitenverwachten
As the name Buitenverwachten means "above expectation"- the
owners concentrate on top quality products - which have resulted in
regular awards from abroad.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mo. - Fr.: 9h00 - 17h00, Sa.: 9h00 - 13h00,
Cellar Tour: Mo. - Sa.: 11h00 and 15h00.
The Nouvelle Cuisine Restaurant is regarded as one of the best in the
country. Lunch: Tu. - Fr.: 12h30 - 14h30,
Dinner: Tu. - Sa. 19h30 - 21h00,
Tel: 021/794 5190, Fax: 021/794 1351.
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Franschhoek
After being persecuted by their own people, some of the French Huguenots
settled in a valley (Hoek = corner) near the Drakenstein Mountains. This
was the ideal location for the French wine experts, as the valley offered
not only tranquil and beautiful scenery, but was ideally suitable for vine
cultivation. In 1984 this area became even more renowned, after the
opening of the Franschoek Wine Route (officially called “Vignerons de
Franschhoek”). Cultivars planted are Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon
Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir.
The historic Huguenot Monument which depicts the European expulsion of the
Protestant Huguenots by the Catholics is the major tourist attraction of
the area. Franschhoek has 14 wine producers and is only an hour’s drive
from Cape Town. Franschhoek Tourist Association: Tel/fax.: 021/876 3603
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Boschendal
Boschendal is owned by South Africa’s mine industrialist, Anglo
American, who changed the ambience of the farm into one of the finest
complexes of its kind in the area. Boschendal processes elegant,
tantalising white and full-bodied red wines, as well as sparkling wines.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mo.- Fr.: 08h30 - 16h30, Sa. 8h30 - 12h30,
Wine tours: Mon. - Fri: 11h00 and 15h00. Sat: 11h00
Boschendal boasts an excellent restaurant as well as offering picnic
lunches. The meticulously restored Manor House, which reflects a period of
transition, is a museum really worth visiting. Tel: 021/874 1031, Fax:
021/874 1864.
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Bellingham
Bellingham introduced the Premier Grand Crû: this characteristically
bone-dry white wine was designed for wine buffs, it became very popular on
the market and made the name of Bellingham. The farm produces white, red
and sparkling wines and is only a 16 kilometre’s drive from Paarl.
Tip: Wine tasting is free of charge.
Wine Tasting and Sales: Mo. - Fr.: 8h30 - 16h30. Sat. 10.00 - 12.30
(Dec-Apr); Tel: 021/874 1011, Fax: 021/874 1712.
Restaurant Recommendations
La Petit Ferme,
Franschhoek Mountain Pass, Franschhoek; Tel: 021/876 3016, Fax: 021/876
3624
Le Quartier Francais
Hugenot Road, Franschhoek; Tel: 021/876 2151
Country Hotels in the Winelands
Alphen Hotel
P. O. Box 35, Constantia 7848; Tel: 021/794 5011, Fax: 021/794 5710
Auberge Rozendal
P.O. Box 160, Stellenbosch 7599 Tel: 021/887 6854, Fax:021/883 8738
Bonne Esperance
17 van Riebeeck Str., Stellenbosch 7600, tel.: 021/887 0225/6, Fax:
021/887 8328.
Constantia Uitsig Farm
P.O. Box 32, Constantia 7848; Tel: 021/794 6500, Fax: 021/794 7605
Dorphius Country House
P.O. Box 999, Stellenbosch 7600; Tel: 021/883 9881, Fax: 021/883 9884
Die Ouwe Werf
30 Church Street, Stellenbosch 7600; Tel: 021/887 1608, Fax: 021/887 4626
Die Ou Pastorie Guest House
41 Lourens Str., Somerset West 7130; Tel: 021/852 2120, Fax: 021/851 3710
Erinvale Estate Hotel and Golf Club
Somerset West 7130; Tel: 021/847 1160, Fax: 021/847 1169
Fynbos Guest House
14 Neethling Street, Stellenbosch 7599; Tel: 021/883 8670, Fax: 021/883
8479
Goedemoed Country Inn
P.O. Box 331, Paarl 7620; Tel: 021/ 871 1020, fax 021/872 5430
Grande Roche Hotel
P.O. Box 6038, Paarl 7620; Tel: 021/ 863 2727, Fax: 021/ 863 2220
Lanzerac Hotel
P.O. Box 4, Stellenbosch 7599; Tel: 021/887 1132, Fax: 021/887 2310
L'Auberge Du Quartier Francais
P.O. Box 237, Franschhoek 7690; Tel: 021/876 2151, fax 021/876 3105
Lebensart Guest House
19 Alphen Drive, Constantia 7800 Tel: 021/794 1013 Fax: 021/794 101,
Mountain Shadows
P.O. Box 2501, Paarl, 7620; Tel 021/862 3192, Fax: 021/862 6796
Roggeland
P.O. Box 7210, Noorder Paarl 7623; Tel: 021/868 2501, fax.: 021/ 868 2113
Rusthof
P.O. Box 188, Franschoek 7690; Tel: 021/876 3762, Fax: 021/876 3682
Stellenbosch Hotel
162 Dorp Street, Stellenbosch 7600; Tel: 021/887 3644, Fax: 021/887 3673
The Cellars Country House
P.O. Box 270, Constantia 7848; Tel: 021/794 2137, fax 021/794 2149
Wedge Farm
P.O. Box 3219, Matieland 7602; Tel/Fax: 021/883 2826
Zevenwacht Country Inn
P.O. Box 387, Kuils River 7580; Tel: 021/906 1560, Fax: 021/906 1570
Zomerlust Guest House
193 Main Road, Paarl 7646; Tel: 021/872 2117, Fax: 021/872 8312
Wine on the web
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