The Winelands are home to an array of picturesque wine estates and cellars that are the perfect destination for a chilly winter’s day. It’s the time of year that calls for all things cozy. Think roaring fires, warm coats, gourmet meals and a rich, full-bodied glass of red wine or two!
While Cape Town and the surrounding winelands are a premier destination during the summer months, winter in the winelands brings with it a special charm and host of activities to keep visitors warm and entertained.
Here are seven top Winelands destinations guaranteed to warm you up this winter:
Franschhoek’s La Motte offers visitors a romantic day out in the Cape Winelands. Explore the grounds, art gallery and barrel room before heading to the tasting room to warm up next to the log fire with a glass of La Motte wine – the La Motte Pierneef Syrah Viognier is a great option. Make sure to enjoy a unique culinary journey at the Pierneef restaurant which offers a winter menu and special food and wine pairings.
Klein Zalze
In the heart of the winelands just outside of Stellenbosch is Kleine Zalze. The family-owned estate is in a stunning location and is home to the award winning Terroir restaurant. Sample the wines of Kleine Zalze and the gourmet flavours of Terroir. Head Chef Michael Broughton creates seasonal menus – look forward to a winter menu sure to warm you up. Don’t miss out on the Kleine Zalze Cabernet Sauvignon.
Constantia Glen
Found in Cape Town’s Constantia Winelands, Constantia Glen is one of the Cape’s most picturesque vineyards. Situated just below Constantia Nek Pass in a sweeping valley and surrounded by hills dotted with vineyards, Constantia Glen offers up breathtaking views and fantastic wines. Relax on the protected outdoor terrace and enjoy the best of the cosy indoors and beauty of the outdoors while enjoying a glass of the Constanta Glen Five.
Another beautiful spot in Stellenbosch’s Simonsberg Mountains is Delheim Estate. Visit the “downstairs” cellar door and the famously quirky cobwebbed window. In winter, you will be greeted with a glass of hot, spicy gluhwein. Delheim also hosts a much-loved Delheim Jazz and Cheese Fondues. Enjoy a Sunday afternoon filled with live music, great wine and a hearty fondue!
Nestled in the Jonkershoek Valley in Stellenbosch, Lanzerac is an estate with a rich history dating back to 1962 and is the home of the world’s first bottled Pinotage. Snuggle up in the Tasting Room in front of the fire and enjoy some of Lanzerac’s finest wines. For a super cosy, old-world charm type experience visit the Craven Lounge at Lanzerac which is filled with a roaring fireplace, antiques and a grand piano (and the fun addition of rugby memorabilia adorning the walls). Keep an eye out for their winter wine tasting evenings.
Fairview is a favourite for lovers of wine and cheese. The working farm based in Paarl is a great destination for anyone looking to taste fine wine and enjoy some fresh, homemade country style meals. In the inviting tasting rooms, sip on a glass on the Fairview Shiraz. On selected dates throughout winter, there are special food and wine pairing evenings – the perfect stop for comfort food and wine to warm the soul.
The Cape’s oldest wine farm continues to be a popular destination for visitors to Cape Town. The historic sprawling vineyards offer a fantastic outing for a crisp winter’s day. Explore the grounds on the Visitors Route making stops at Cloete Cellar and the original Cape Dutch Manor House as well as the Jonkerhuis and Simon’s Restaurant. Celebrate the beautiful chilly season settling in with a glass of the Groot Constantia Gouverneur’s Reserve enjoyed next to the fireplace.
