Stellenbosch is the epitome of South Africa’s Cape Winelands region, with a picture postcard setting of lush vineyards set in front of imposing granite mountains, and the area is deservedly considered the centre of the country’s wine tourism.
Situated on the banks of the Eerste River, Stellenbosch established the country’s first wine route in 1971, which provided the catalyst for the current burgeoning wine travel industry in South Africa. Stellenbosch wine farms, which range from large commercial estates to small boutique wineries, produce some of South Africa’s most highly acclaimed wines. Traditionally, wine farms in Stellenbosch were renowned for their white varietals – with Sauvignon Blanc dominating, while Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Chardonnay are also grown.
Stellenbosch farms, however, have recently turned their attention to producing quality red wines, with Cabernet Sauvignon the most popular grape planted trailed by Shiraz and Merlot.
Traditionally, wine farms in Stellenbosch were renowned for their white varietals – with Sauvignon Blanc dominating, while Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Chardonnay are also grown.
While the region hosts hundreds of wineries, the best wine farms in Stellenbosch tend to be vineyards settled on the alluvial fans of the 600 year-old Cape mountains. At Wine Paths, our local expert can organise exclusive tours of wine farms in Stellenbosch, which can include elaborate tastings, luxury stays, incredible cuisine and some unique activities.
Our private tours of Stellenbosch wine farms can be tailor-made to meet your exact requirements, ensuring every detail is taken care of so that you can relax and enjoy the matter at hand – sampling the southern hemisphere’s finest wines while surrounded by bewildering beauty.
The Marianne estate is another Stellenbosch wine farm that has drawn from French influences, pampering the grapes to produce Bordeaux-style blends with more age than its neighbouring farms. Wine Paths’ Full Marianne Experience includes a professional guided tour of the vineyards and cellar room, which uses only the best French oak barrels, and tastings of their flagship wines.
There is also a wine and biltong (South Africa’s local dried, cured meat) tasting experience at Marianne, which pairs five different meats with premium wines that can be enjoyed from the estate’s excellent tasting room.
Visit our South Africa destination page for more inspirational ideas before planning an exclusive tour of farms in Stellenbosch for an experience like no other.
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