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Do you like to drink wine? Great, me too, you have come to the right place! You may have heard that there are some great wines to be found in South Africa. If you are planning a holiday and like wine, a visit to the wine farms in Stellenbosch is an absolute must.
Stellenbosch and its wine routes are home to some of the best wines in the country and easy to reach when you are coming from Cape Town or the airport.
Quite a few vineyards are part of Stellenbosch Wine Routes and if you wanted to visit them all, you might as well move to South Africa. To help you out, I visited a few in person and will share my favorites with you and what to expect when you visit!
My favorite wine farms in Stellenbosch
It’s hard to decide which my favorite wine farm in Stellenbosch is. I like some for the views, others for their rosè… and you might feel completely different. To make it easy, I have simply listed them in alphabetical order. If you can’t find the wine farm you are looking for, check the Stellenbosch Wine Routes website as they have them all.
Table of Contents
An Intro to famous South African Wines
South Africa is famous for its crisp, dry Sauvignon Blanc and oaked Chardonnay as well as its Shiraz or Syrah, a smoky and spicy grape, and Pinot Noir, a notoriously difficult grape to grow outside of Burgundy (but so worth it, it’s my favorite!).
Another varietal that has become quite famous is Pinotage, a crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsaut created in 1925. Today it is the second most planted red grape in South Africa and unique to the country.
Fans of champagne should look out for the label MCC – Methode Cap Classic. South Africa’s answer to champagne usually made from Chardonnay or Pinot Noir grapes is excellent and gives French bubbly a run for its money.
Alluvia
Alluvia (the name is inspired by the word alluvial to show a connection to the soil) is not just a winery but also a small boutique hotel located between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. If you get to stay there, check-in already is a treat as you will be welcomed with a glass of their wonderful rosé.
Rooms are modern, sleek, and comfortable with some lush jewel-toned accents – perfect for a good rest after a day of exploring (and drinking). They also have a spa on-site and a pool with the grandest views over the mountains, the vineyards, a picturesque lake as well as a gaggle of guinea fowls that seem to roam freely in the valley.
Luckily the terrace has the same stunning views though I did spot a fireplace inside, perfect for wine tasting in winter. The staff is lovely and knowledgeable, sharing a real passion for their products. In addition to wine tasting, they also have a restaurant on the same premises or you can get a picnic basket to eat by the lake.
While the rosé is lovely, Alluvia is probably best known for their incredible Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. I am a big fan of Cabernet Franc especially when it is not used in a blend but can shine on its own. Even better is the Cabernet Sauvignon with just the right amount of tannins, in fact, it was good enough that I bought a few bottles. Lucky for me, in-house guests get a 10% discount on any wine purchases.
Estate Range tasting of 4 wines is R90
Delaire Graff
For some of the best wine tasting in Stellenbosch head to the esteemed and very beautiful Delaire Graff. They have the most spectacular setting and are well known for their incredible restaurant Indochine.
They also offer accommodation and after an extensive session at their ultra-luxurious spa, I am very keen to stay for an extended amount of time.
Their tasting area takes you out on the terrace (weather permitting of course) and you can sit surrounded by Dylan Lewis cheetahs overlooking the mountains and the vineyards. There is plenty of shade so even on a hot summer’s day, your rosè won’t get too warm.
They offer a few different so-called tutored wine experiences and you can choose how many wines you want to try and from which of their ranges. If you get hungry while tasting you can also offer some nibbles and cheese in the tasting area.
Tastings with 3 wines start at R120
Delheim
Delheim is one of the oldest when it comes to Stellenbosch wine farm and was run for decades by the late “Spatz” Sperling. They were one of the first vineyards that recognized wine and wine farms to be a draw for tourism. With that, they were the first to serve cheese platters with their wines and to have a restaurant.
Today while still run by the Sperling children, the wine is made by Nongcebo Langa. Noni is one of South Africa’s first black female winemakers and is trailblazing her way through the Delheim vineyards. Noni got into winemaking almost by chance but is now making her way confidently and proudly in the industry.
She has been working at Delheim for 4 years now and some of her treasures are already out for tasting. You can either sit in their nice tasting room or enjoy a glass while overlooking the garden and on a good day – Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. If you have a sweet tooth try their wine & fynbos cupcake pairing or go for a glass of the “Edelspatz”, Delheim’s incredible noble late harvest.
Tastings start at R85
DeMeye Vineyards
DeMeye has gotten into the focus of foodies everywhere in recent years due to their famous Table at DeMeye. These family-style lunches are hosted on the extensive lawn and are apparently worth a trip. This also means that they book out far in advance so if you are heading to Stellenbosch during the summer season, I recommend you secure your table far in advance.
If you don’t manage to get a booking you should still pop in because DeMeye also offers wine tasting and some very tasty snack platters to go with. My favorite was their Chenin Blanc made from old vine planted in 1978 and their rosè. The rosè is meant to be drunk with ice – perfect for a hot Stellenbosch day and without having a winemaker roll their eyes at you for watering down their precious drops.
Unpretentious and very yummy are the food options: local produce with great bread, charcuterie, cheeses – whatever is in season – at a very reasonable price.
Tasting with 6 wines is R80
DeMorgenzon
One of the premier Stellenbosch wineries, DeMorgenzon, is aptly named for a morning wine-tasting session. I learned here that there is no such thing as an inappropriate wine-drinking/ tasting hour in the Winelands!
DeMorgenzon is famous for their Chardonnay and Shiraz which are grown in a very special setting. You can take a walk into the vineyard where you will see speakers next to the vines that are playing classical music for the grapes to grow.
While studies are not conclusive yet if the music actually has a positive effect on plants I do like the effect it has on the overall setting of the vineyard – simply beautiful and very festive. And you can be the judge if it works for the well-being of the wine – tasting starts at R10 per glass, perfect if you don’t want a set amount of tastings.
Jordan
Jordan must be one of the prettiest vineyards in Stellenbosch because from the hills you can see as far as Table Mountain and False Bay. The latter is especially important when it comes to the grapes that grow at Jordan – some do particularly well with a bit of sea breeze.
While they offer regular wine tastings either in the cellar or by a little lake, I suggest you book their 360° tasting experience that is done in an open safari-style Land Rover. You will be taken through the vineyards and not only learn more about the terroir and the geology but do your tasting right then and there – amazing views included!
During your tasting, you will learn more about their “The Real McCoy Riesling” (which even this non-Riesling fan enjoyed) and why they are the first South African vineyard to plant Assyrtiko, try some “Black Magic Merlot” and see firsthand how their motto “unique by nature’s design”came about.
Tasting starts at R112, vineyard tasting in a safari vehicle is R656
Kanu
How to get to Kanu? Well, you could take a helicopter or so I presume since there is a big H landing pat. Alas, I am not so fancy so I arrived by car just a little envious…
Kanu was established in 1692 like many other wineries in Stellenbosch as part of the well-known Nooitgedacht farm. Since 1997 it has been known and operated as Kanu. The name is derived from a Xhosa legend and refers to a mythical bird of promise. You can still see the bird on their logo everywhere.
Regardless of the weather make sure to visit their lush tasting room and ask to see the cellar. It is equally spooky and romantic down there with a beautiful twang of history and mash in the air. You can do your wine tasting there or head next door to Du Vin Restaurant. This is the perfect setting for families as kids can play putt-putt and have a playground to hang out at.
Kanu was the first to launch a sushi & wine pairing, an unusual combination to be sure but one that works surprisingly well. A total of six wines are paired with six pieces of sushi – prawn, salmon, and tuna in various combinations. Some are more light and acidic, others rich and creamy depending on what the wine requires. You will try your way through their range, starting with the beautiful MCC Angelina and finishing with reds.
As you probably won’t get full with six pieces of sushi, you can order more from the extensive sushi menu afterward. In addition, make sure to try their delicious, buttery Viognier.
Wine tasting for any 5 wines is R 75, sushi & wine pairing is R190
Kleine Zalze
Kleine Zalze (meaning ‘little salt’ a nod to its German owner’s heritage) is not far from the Stellenbosch town center and well worth a visit especially if you come hungry. Their tasting area offers a terrace as well as a tasting room inside – choose the outside to enjoy the garden views.
I was surprised to realize how inexpensive wine tasting in Stellenbosch is compared to tasting in Constantia and Kleine Zalze is a great example of this. Back in the day, tasting used to be free at most vineyards however, owners have realized that too many people take advantage of it. But even now you can get lekker tipsy at Kleine Zalze as their tastings are quite the steal.
They are well known for their Chenin Blanc and while I am generally not a fan, they have won prizes and accolades so if you like Chenin you are in for a treat! I like the concepts of their different ranges which offer each varietal at different price points (and to my surprise, the most expensive one wasn’t always the best). My favorite? Their rosè bubbly was also a steal at R128 per bottle!
Tasting with 3 wines starts at R45
Lanzerac
Lanzerac dates back to 1692 and considers itself the grande dame of Stellenbosch wineries. Still today, Cape heritage and old-world charm all around! You can stay at Lanzerac, visit the spa, or simply do a bit of wine tasting. They are home to the world’s first bottled Pinotage and are still known for their Pinotage today, a uniquely South African varietal.
They offer a so-called Jonkershoek tasting and a Heritage tasting, chances are you will end up like me and do both. For those more interested in the winemaking process and history of Lanzerac they offer daily guided cellar tours.
And if you decide to stay the night, you can do your own oyster & bubbly pairing at the breakfast buffet!
Tasting with 5 wines starts at R105
Lievland
Lievland must win the prize for the prettiest name as it means Loveland and also has the cutest logo with a bokkie riding Cupid. The farm has a long tradition and was brought to new life in 2017 by MAN Family Wines.
It is hidden along Route 44 and as pretty as it gets. If you Google “winefarm in Stellenbosch” Lievland should come up as a picture-perfect example.
The wine tasting takes place in a beautiful manor house, equally breezy in summer and cozy in the winter. We got lucky with the weather so we opted to sit outside for the best views. Tasting brings six wines including their absolutely stellar rosé, a blend of Syrah, Mourvedre, and Cinsault.
Honestly, I haven’t had a rosé this good in a long time – they should bottle it up and sell it. Ha! They are also one of the first farms to barrel-ferment Chenin Blanc and as a newly minted Chenin fan, I was keen.
If you need something to snack on while you taste, you can get a yummy grazing platter. They also have one for vegetarians. Those still hungry afterward, head next door to the Lievland Cafe. Oysters, tarts, and some delicious local bistro fare await.
Wine tasting for any 6 wines is R 110
Marianne
Marianne is a great wine farm in Stellenbosch known for their wine and biltong tasting. Named after the fictional character that personifies the French Republic, Marianne, the wine farm wants to merge the best of South African terroir and the heritage of Bordeaux winemaking.
Some of their specialties include a wooded Sauvignon Blanc, highly unusual and delicious albeit for R170 a little pricey, and a Floreal. This is their flagship wine from 2006 and was served at Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday at Buckingham Palace.
Biltong is a dried, cured meat similar to beef jerky and is beloved by South Africans. Our biltong didn’t last long enough for a proper tasting (one can never have enough biltong!) so I recommend if you come for a pairing buy a whole bowl for the table to start with!
Middelvlei
If you picture “House on a Prairie” in South Africa you can picture Middelvlei. Rolling green hills, lots of cows and birds, and a beautiful building with a restaurant and wine-tasting area and a barn as picturesque as it gets. There is also a fun enclosure where ducks, goats, and a few tortoises live. Yes, you have read correctly – tortoises and goats – who chill next to, sometimes on top of each other, live here!
Middelvlei is as proudly South African as can be and that shows in the bottle as well as on the menu. In addition to regular wine tasting you can do the “Middelvlei Braaibroodjie and Wine Pairing” or add a Boerebraai for a full-on local dining experience.
We opted for the wine blending experience, a fun way to spend a few hours that is not offered by nearly enough wine farms I think. You start with your own blending kit with measuring cups, vials, and tannin drops (the sugar drops were quickly discarded at our table!) as well as a bottle of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinotage. First up was some tasting as we needed to know what we were working with before we got started with our concoctions. Eventually, happy with the results, we filled two empty bottles, corked them, and named them.
While we were told that we could keep them for up to five years none of our bottles lived past dinner – I am that good of a winemaker!
Wine tasting of 4 wines for R 75, wine blending experience is R380
Muratie
I guess one is not supposed to have a favorite but if you want to know what I consider the best wine farm in Stellenbosch head to Muratie.
Located right next to Delheim, they are another contestant with the claim for ‘oldest vineyard in Stellenbosch’ and manager Lawrence will gladly tell you the farms ancient history. There is a love story, a freed slave, a feisty female owner with a shotgun, wives, mistresses, a great port, crappy wine, and finally the sale for allegedly 1 Rand. They should really write a book about it…
When I arrived at Muratie I was instantly charmed by how undone it looked compared to some of the other wine farms in Stellenbosch. My friend called it higgledy-piggledy and we both agreed that this was a good thing. While the outside is stunning, resembling an Alice in Wonderland garden, you may want to sit inside when the temperatures rise and to soak up all of that fascinating history.
They offer a few different tastings, I recommend you drink as much as you can because to me they have some of the best Stellenbosch wines we tasted. A special delight is their MCC which is only available at the cellar or for a function at Muratie (I have now found my future wedding location and only need a groom). Another highlight is their 100% Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. And obviously, each wine has a little story telling you more about the history and the wine’s namesake on the label.
Oh and best of all – they have alpacas on the farm!!
Tasting starts at R100
Pink Valley Wines
Pink Valley is a wine farm in Stellenbosch with a single purpose: to make incredible rosè. They are the first South African vineyard to do so and they do it well. The rosè is blush, bright, and well-balanced without being bubblegummy, something too many rosès struggle with. Because unlike the name, there is nothing pink about their wine…
Since the owners are from France wine tasting here comprises of 3 rosès including a French and an Italian one. At R165 not cheap and I recommend you rather buy yourself a bottle of their very own rosè at R200. They also have a great tapas menu with delicious little dishes and zou can sit in the shade while enjoying the views, the food and maybe another bottle of rosè.
The labels are also a literal work of art by painter Walter Battiss. If you can get your hands on a magnum – buy it, they make for a beautiful present!
Spier
Spier is one of the oldest if not the oldest wine farm in Stellenbosch. They have beautiful cottages where you can stay, various restaurants, and a light exhibition on their grounds each January. While it has become quite commercial over the years it is a great place to start your wine-tasting adventure in Stellenbosch.
Next to regular wine tasting, Spier also offers a wine & chocolate pairing which is meant to bring out the best in both sinful worlds. While I am usually not a chocolate fan this tasting quickly became one of my favorite things to do in Stellenbosch. Spier has its own chocolatier who comes up with perfect combinations to go with their wines.
The pairings change over time but each chocolate makes sure to bring out the best in the accompanying wine and vice versa. And best of all: as a palate cleanser you get to drink their Cap Classique. They also offer a wine blending experience for groups as well as a grape juice tasting for children.
Tasting with 3 wines starts at R85 and chocolate & wine tasting is R95
Vergenoegd Löw
Not to diss their wines but the highlight of Vergenoegd Löw are their Indian Runner Ducks. But luckily you don’t need to choose! The ducks are herded once a day from the main lawn to the dam – we were delighted to have made it just in time.
Even if you don’t care for birds in general or ducks in particular they are honestly such a sight to behold. And once they are gone (they are not called Runner Ducks for nothing) you can bring your attention to the wine.
The whole property is stunning as they are part of the European Heritage Project portfolio. You can do wine tastings outside or in various beautiful adorned rooms and even stay the night. In addition, they have two restaurants including the famous Clara’s Barn and an intimate spa for the best massage in Stellenbosch.
Of course, they offer various different wine tastings but a fun novelty is the unique indigenous pairing. You will taste six wines and pair them – according to your palate – with indigenous South African ingredients. Some are a sure hit like biltong, dune spinach, and mebos, a salty dried apricot preserve; others are a bit more unusual with a glass of wine like Amasi or bokkoms which is a very salty dried mullet. Regardless, it is a clever version of a regular wine pairing and a great way to try some truly authentic South African foods.
Wine tasting of 5 wines starts at R 110, indigenous pairing is R 200
How to get to the best wine farms in Stellenbosch
I hope you are now in the mood for wine tasting! The question remains – how to get to all these wine farms in Stellenbosch? Whether you are staying in Stellenbosch or in Cape Town you will need a car to get around.
If you have a rental car make sure you have a designated driver or are very strict when it comes to the concept of ‘spit or swallow’. Personally, I find tasting and spitting quite difficult. Maybe you travel with a friend or partner and can take turns to be the designated driver – please do not drink and drive!
Alternatively, there are many organized wine tours that you can take which will include your tasting fees and a driver. However, these can to be quite pricey and you will have to follow a set itinerary.
A great alternative to exploring the different Stellenbosch wine routes is the Vine Hopper. These tours start in the center of Stellenbosch and will take you to different vineyards much as a Hop-On Hop-Off bus does. You can pick and choose where you want to get off and taste wine. Tasting fees are not included in your ticket, so you don’t pay for wines you don’t want to taste.
They have a couple of different routes available that cover different wine farms in Stellenbosch on a set timetable.
By the way, many wine farms in Stellenbosch offer free tasting if you buy a certain amount of bottles after. Just ask! And yes, of course they will happily help you organize domestic or international shipping.
Alternatives to wine tasting in Stellenbosch
Once you have seen enough wine farms in Stellenbosch you can head ‘next door’ to Franschhoek. One of my favorite places to visit is the Babylonstoren Gardens. And yes, they also make their own wine!
Especially their Viognier is beautiful and their wine-tasting area is second to none. Many wine farms in the Winelands either offer an outside tasting area that can get too hot in the Summer (and keep in mind that temperatures in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are usually higher than in Cape Town) or you are stuck in a wine cellar on a beautiful day.
The tasting room at Babylonstoren is different since it is a climatized glass cube. You are sitting in a chilled environment and can still enjoy the stunning views over the garden and the surrounding vineyards.
Tasting with 3 wines starts at R65, you can also add flagship wines as a premium
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