VIN IK LEUK: WINERIES
Panoramic views over the vineyards, bright blue skies, and those typical white Cape Dutch buildings. Welcome to the Cape Winelands!
There are hundreds of wineries in the Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Constantia, Paarl, and Wellington area. A lot of drinking if you want to visit them all.
To make things a little easier for you, here's a selection of my favorites. They're all special in their own way and definitely worth a visit. The kids can join. They can drive home.
You can also order the VIN IK LEUK MAGAZINE and the special VIN IK LEUK edition of the Platter's Wine Guide here.
DELHEIM, STELLENBOSCH
A classic one and one of Stellenbosch's oldest wineries, situated in a beautiful garden with views of Table Mountain. You'll feel like you're in the Garden of Eden. The drive there is a truly floral experience and worth the journey.
You can have a good and affordable lunch, while the children have fun on the large field in the garden or play with the Jack Russell doggies.
The wines are tasteful, and the rosé is addictively delicious. I almost would call it lemonade.
If you're around at the end of January, go to their Harvest Festival. You can pick and stomp your own grapes. Barefoot, as they say here.
DELAIRE GRAFF ESTATE, STELLENBOSCH
Perhaps the most beautiful one? It begins with the imposing driveway with all its floral splendor, artwork, and panoramic views over the vineyards.
Then there's the estate itself, an impressive building with a grand entrance and a stream flowing inside—yes, you read that right. All of this combined with the requisite African art. Plus, they have the most delicious-smelling toilet in the southern hemisphere.
But the best part is the magnificent view over Helshoogte. Spectacular during sunset.
The owner, Swiss diamond dealer Graff, has spared no expense. The wines are also top-notch; the Coastal Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc and the Summercourt Chardonnay are my favorites. If you're in the area, stop by for lunch, a wine tasting, or a sundowner. It's magnificent in every way.
SIMONSIG, STELLENBOSCH
This is where the Méthode Cape Classique was born. Abbreviated to MCC, known as "bubbly." Did you by the way know, that you can't say "bubbly" angry? Try.
They also call it "Kaapse vonkel It can't be called champagne, because it's not made in that region. But it is the same, tastes like it, is perhaps even better.
Go for a tasting and order a delicious platter. With a bit of luck, you might spot owls in the tree, and if not, it's still a lovely place to taste the stars.
JORDAN, STELLENBOSCH
Has everything you like and want. Let's start with the stunning view overlooking the vineyards till the expansive Simonsberg mountain.
The Cellar Door is the right spot for a "brekkie" or enjoy an extensive and delicious lunch or dinner at the restaurant. You can have a picknick in the garden and of course you can taste their wines. They offer a jeep wine safari too.
You can even stay overnight; the suites are truly wonderful.
And the wines? At Jordan, they certainly know how to handle grapes and they are making optimal use of the climate and the location of the vineyards. That's how you get quality wines. Location, location, location—I could live there.
Rainbow's End, Stellenbosch
Sometimes you discover something you want to share with everyone, or maybe not, because it is so special.
This is a true hidden gem. Tucked away far off the beaten track, and you really need to know your way. Past Oldenhof, the protea fields and even a bit further.
The winery itself has a stylish decorated tasting room with a stunning view over the mountains. And yes, when it rains, the most beautiful rainbow appears.
The wines are also good. I LIKE IT in capital letters.
CAVALLI, STELLENBOSCH
If you want something a little neater or are looking for a beautiful thoroughbred, then Cavalli is the right place for you.
But also if you love good food and postcard views, it's a lovely place to sit.
Besides the outdoor deck, the restaurant, and the wine tasting area, there's also a gallery. There, you can even see, alongside many original Springbok shirts, the soccer ball used during the World Cup final between the Netherlands and Spain in South Africa.
This way, visiting a winery suddenly also gets an educational touch.
TOKARA, THE DELICATESSEN, STELLENBOSCH
If you're looking for a magical view of over the vineyards and olive fields, and a kick ass jungle gym, this is the place to be. And it's a nice place to buy some typical South African products gifts too.
Located next to the Tokara winery, in a beautiful modern building. It's an ideal spot for children. While they play, you can enjoy a delicious lunch with a glass of Tokara, of course.
Will it be a Cabernet Sauvignon or Sauvignon Blanc, because those are the grapes they mainly focus on,. And olives.
This is just a small selection. If you'd like more information or have any questions, please contact me directly.