I was born in South Africa, as was my mother and grandmother — so going home was heart-wrenching and an emotionally deep experience to revisit my homeland. I live in San Diego which is similar to South Africa in climate and many other ways.
Discovering Stellenbosch Wineries is a great way to explore South Africa’s exquisite Cape Winelands. I was blown away by the stunning mountains and the charming 17th-century Cape Dutch architecture throughout South Africa, but particularly in Stellenbosch. Aside from the wineries, a visit here should include shopping in Stellenbosch, dining at extraordinary restaurants (best oysters too!!), enjoying the fresh produce, and drinking the region’s remarkable, award-winning wines. We chose to stay at a winery resort and would have stayed another week had I not made other plans. Many visitors to Stellenbosch Wineries do day trips from Cape Town which is another option, however, to see the most and enjoy this incredible region, it’s best to stay and do Stellenbosch at least for a couple of days.
Stellenbosch is located in South Africa’s renowned wine country about 40 minutes from Cape Town, half an hour-ish from the airport. Spanning 30,000 acres, it is among the country’s largest wine-producing districts, with over 150 wineries. The region’s Mediterranean climate, shaped by misty winters and hot summers, provides ideal conditions for vineyards.
Stellenbosch wineries are surrounded by majestic mountains including Simonsberg, Papegaaiberg (Parrot Mountain), Jonkershoek, and Die Twee Pieke (or The Twin Peaks). Stellenbosch offers diverse geography, with elevations ranging from 490 to 1,312 feet above sea level. For those terroir lovers, its geological history spans millions of years, resulting in a remarkable variety of soils, including decomposed granite, sandstone, and alluvial soils on clay bases. With approximately 50 different soil types, Stellenbosch wineries are a haven for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
According to James Suckling “South Africa is turning into a great white wine producer overall, and is perhaps even better with modern chenin blanc than the holy grail for the grape, France’s Loire Valley.”
13 BEST Stellenbosch Wineries
With over 150 wineries in and around Stellenbosch, South Africa — it’s hard to pick just 13 Stellenbosch Wineries. For the best experience though, work with a knowledgeable, local guide. That way, you can also taste and not worry about driving, which is on the wrong side of the road if you’re from the US! Double trouble. Visit at least three of these options – don’t cram more than three into one day and choose high and maybe lesser-known, but equally impressive Stellenbosch Wineries to understand the full breadth of this gorgeous winemaking region.
South Africa is the ninth largest wine producer in the world and produces approximately 4% of the world’s wine. The wine industry contributes more than R55 billion to the country’s GDP. ~ https://www.wosa.co.za/
Stellenbosch encompasses ten primary areas: Franschhoek, Jamestown, Kayamandi, Klapmuts, Kylemore, Languedoc, Pniel, Robertsvlei, Stellenbosch, and Wemmershoek. The town of Stellenbosch functions as the central hub of this local municipality. The Cape Winelands, a picturesque area, comprises three main wine regions: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Stellenbosch, in particular, consistently leads the South African wine scene in terms of quality.
If you book with a guide or through your hotel, you can share what type of wines you prefer in advance and they’ll create the itinerary around that for your Stellenbosch winery advenure. We chose whites and red and definitely wanted to include Graff Delaire for its stunning grounds and sculpture garden. We enjoyed a magnificent lunch al fresco there with the mountains as the backdrop.
Reserve or not to reserve your Tastings at Stellenbosch Wineries?
Depending on the season, reservations may be required. I’ve listed all the wineries’ websites so you can see their hours, holidays, and reservation requirements. I will state, that the best experiences were those who knew we were coming and had set aside a knowledgeable guide for us. When it comes to wineries that have restaurants, again — it is best to reserve in advance.
1. Delaire Graff Estate
Are you thinking of diamonds? – Yes, same Graff family. Visit Delaire Graff in the middle of your day so you can relax and take in its panoramic beauty and enjoy a lovely lunch.
The winery-resort-spa is perched on the picturesque Helshoogte Pass in Stellenbosch, Delaire Graff Estate Winery is a true jewel in the Cape Winelands. It has breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains, and as you might imagine, it is synonymous with elegance and excellence. Founded by Laurence Graff, an internationally renowned diamond jeweler, the winery blends the art of winemaking with the allure of fine art and impeccable hospitality. And, if you’re looking for that special gift, they do have the world’s smallest Graff Diamond Shop.
We didn’t stay there on our Stellenbosch winery discovery trip, but we did do the very educational wine tour and indulged in a magnificent Michelin-starred lunch. We also explored the grounds to enjoy the vast artwork collection in the gardens as well as the interior. BTW, all of the seafood in the region is fresh, fresh, fresh! Especially excellent are the mussels and oysters from Saldanha, quite nearby.
➡️ Add this winery to your private guided tour
➡️ Stay here instead and enjoy this top-notch experience!
2. Lanzerac Winery Resort and Spa
For our Stellenbosch wineries adventure, I picked Lanzerac – and WOW!!!! This is actually my top-rated winery because it has everything for a perfect stay. The estate is quite large and they have everything you’ll ever need including two restaurants. We relaxed in a specious cottage with our own pool and enjoyed daily breakfast, the bike rides, the spectacular and very generous wine tasting as well as the spa. They offer free shuttles into town as well, but it’s so close, you can walk to town. We also hiked these gorgeous hills in the early morning with nobody around.
Nestled in the heart of the Jonkershoek Valley in Stellenbosch, Lanzerac Winery stands as a testament to South Africa’s rich winemaking heritage. Established in 1692, Lanzerac is one of the country’s oldest wine estates, steeped in history (which you’ll learn all about during your tasting) and surrounded by scenic beauty.
➡️ Add this winery to your customizable wine tour
➡️ Stay at this AMAZING resort
3. Waterford Estate Wines
I particularly love this Stellenbosch winery because it is such a gorgeous property — and they do chocolate pairings, which I’ve always heard was a big no-no. It was love at first bite. Though we did purchase some wines, I thought they were quite expensive compared to other wineries. We got caught up in the moment. The swans are quite aggressive if you go for that up-close shot.
Waterford Estate is set in the scenic Blaauwklippen Valley near Stellenbosch and has swiftly earned its reputation as one of Stellenbosch’s premier wineries since its establishment in 1998. It was founded by two passionate families with roots in the renowned Rust & Vrede wine estate. It has a rather diverse portfolio of wines with a focus on sustainable viticulture practices, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques.
Waterford Estate offers an array of wine-tasting experiences and unique and immersive experiences such as the Wine Drive Safari and the Porcupine Trail Walk. The Wine Drive Safari takes guests on a scenic tour of the vineyards, providing a close-up view of the winemaking process and the opportunity to taste wines amidst the picturesque landscape. The Porcupine Trail Walk offers a leisurely stroll through the estate’s natural habitat, allowing visitors to connect with nature while enjoying selected wine tastings along the way.
➡️ Add this winery to your private guided tour
4. Meerlust Estate and Resort
More stunning Cape Dutch beauties — Set in Stellenbosch wineries’ lush landscapes, Meerlust Estate has been here since 1693, and it’s stunning. Its vineyards benefit from the region’s cool ocean breezes, producing exceptional wines, like the renowned Rubicon Bordeaux blend. The estate also offers a luxurious resort experience. Elegant accommodations, from cottages to suites, blend comfort and style. The resort features a gourmet restaurant, where culinary delights are paired with Meerlust wines.
Great activities here too including vineyard tours, cycling, and spa treatments.
➡️ Add this winery to your private guided tour
5. Boschendal Farm Estate
Truly the heart of Stellenbosch, Boschendal Farm Estate dates back to 1685, inviting travelers to step into a world where history meets the serenity of nature. This charming estate, with its rich heritage and lush surroundings, offers an array of experiences designed to immerse visitors in the essence of the Cape Winelands. Delve into the past with enlightening farm tours, or explore the vineyard trails on horseback for a truly authentic adventure—each activity promising an intimate encounter with Boschendal’s storied legacy. For a tranquil interlude, indulge in a leisurely picnic by the pond, surrounded by the estate’s natural splendor and the songs of native birds.
Want to stay longer? Boschendal offers great accommodations! Opt for the timeless elegance of the Herbert Baker-designed Cottage 1685 or the rustic allure of the Orchards’ farm cottages, your stay at this STellenbosch winery promises to be memorable.
➡️ Add this winery to your private guided tour
6. Tokara
Isn’t it wild and different from all the others? During our visit to Tokara in Stellenbosch, my sister and I loved the understated elegance of the winery. The focus on art and nature was immediately apparent, with a remarkable collection of contemporary artworks throughout the space. The staff, knowledgeable and friendly, guided us through the wine tasting, sharing insights about each wine without any pretense. There was a lack of ostentation, allowing us to focus solely on the wines and the beautiful surroundings. The restaurant offered a menu rooted in local flavors, paired impeccably with Tokara’s wines.
Tokara felt like a place where the quality of the wines and the natural beauty of the surroundings spoke for themselves. It was a refreshing change from more commercial wineries, allowing us to appreciate the art of winemaking in a relaxed and authentic setting. The visit was a reminder of how simplicity and authenticity can make a wine-tasting experience truly enjoyable.
7. Babylonstoren
During our visit to Babylonstoren, we were fascinated by the farm’s natural beauty and commitment to organic farming. The gardens were like a colorful paradise, filled with various plants and herbs that smelled amazing. We learned about their eco-friendly practices, which made us appreciate the environment even more.
Inside the wine-tasting room, the staff was friendly and helpful. They taught us about the wines without using sommie-complicated words, quite refreshing! We got to taste the wines right where the grapes were grown, making the experience special. What really made Babylonstoren even more appealing was their farm-to-table approach.
8. Jordan Winery
Jordan Winery is on a picturesque estate, spanning 164 hectares, and is meticulously curated by the passionate owners, Gary and Kathy Jordan. Surrounded by the grandeur of the Stellenbosch Mountains, the winery’s vineyards and olive groves paint a stunning natural tapestry. Jordan Winery is not just a vineyard; it’s a testament to sustainable practices and environmentally conscious viticulture. Their commitment to quality is reflected in every bottle, especially in their renowned Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a fabulous Stellenbosch wine-tasting experience and also a gorgeous place to stay!
➡️ Add this winery to your private guided tour
➡️ Stay at this gorgeous Resort and Winery
9. Oldenburg Vineyards
In the captivating Banghoek Valley, Oldenburg Vineyards showcases the artistry of winemaking. At 9th of the Stellenbosch wineries, this boutique estate, with its scenic vineyards and meticulously cultivated terroir, crafts wines of exceptional quality and character. Oldenburg Vineyards’ commitment to sustainable practices and hands-on viticulture shines through in every bottle, making it a standout in the Stellenbosch winemaking landscape.
10. Hartenberg
This was the last stop for us after a full day of Stellenbosch wineries, and we loved the grounds and the very casual, relaxed atmosphere here. Hartenberg Wine Estate is surrounded by the sprawling vineyards of the area. The tasting rooms, adorned with oak barrels and subtle historical accents, provide the backdrop for a truly exquisite wine-tasting experience. Each sip reveals the estate’s commitment to producing wines that boast distinctive character and complexity, reflecting the unique terroir of the region.
We bought several wines here, quite reasonably priced and exceptionally excellent. For wine aficionados seeking an authentic and immersive wine-tasting adventure, Hartenberg Wine Estate offers an unparalleled journey into the world of fine wines.
11. Stark-Condé
Stark-Condé, the gorgeous Stellenbosch winery holds a special place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts. It’s a real hidden gem and a family legacy, where handcrafted wines are made using time-tested traditional methods. The family’s property in the Jonkershoek Valley sprawls over 600 acres, with 85 acres dedicated to vineyards. The estate isn’t just a viticultural gem; its beauty is awe-inspiring, drawing visitors from distant places.
What sets Stark-Condé apart are their meticulous practices. From hand-picking grapes to small-batch fermentation, the guiding principles behind their wines are rooted in patience and craftsmanship.
➡️ Add this Stellenbosch winery to your private guided tour
12. Warwick
Situated in the foothills and mid-slopes of Simonsberg Mountain, Warwick Estate with altitudes ranging from 240 to 360 meters above sea level, this estate possesses all the crucial elements required to produce world-class wine. They have a storied legacy dating back to the 17th century. In 1964, winemaker Norma Ratcliffe, alongside her husband Stan, meticulously honed their craft, culminating in the release of Warwick’s pioneering La Femme Bleu Cabernet Sauvignon in 1984. This marked the beginning of a remarkable era, where Warwick Estate not only bottled the world’s first ‘Cape Blend’ but also garnered international recognition, adorning prestigious wine lists globally and even becoming a choice of James Bond.
Warwick Estate offers diverse wine-tasting experiences tailored to various preferences, from the cozy indoor setting, the inviting outdoor patio, or the laid-back picnic gardens. Each area provides a distinct ambiance for sampling and indulging in the estate’s superb wines.
In the indoor tasting room, guests are greeted by a decor that beautifully blends homely warmth with refined style and understated simplicity. The atmosphere here invites a sense of comfort, creating the ideal environment to appreciate Warwick Estate’s exquisite wines.
➡️ Add this winery to your private guided tour
13. Spier Winery, Hotel and Farm
The final Stellenbosch Winery top 13! On the scenic Eerste River, Spier Estate dates back to 1692 is a luxurious four-star retreat and winery that offers plush rooms and modern amenities. They have award-winning wines and as a farm, they really focus on sustainability everything from treating the staff like family, to free-range livestock. you can enjoy wine tastings at the airy Tasting Room, adorned with a Heath Nash chandelier made from recycled Spier wine bottles.
Spier Estate’s restaurant serves an exquisite blend of local and international cuisine amidst a sophisticated ambiance. Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery, a farm-to-table gem, is celebrated for its artisanal offerings. The Spier Hotel Restaurant offers rustic charm, a wine bar, and an expansive outdoor terrace. The Farm Café tempts with ready-to-eat treats or personalized picnics, immersing diners in nature.
➡️ Add this winery to your private guided tour
➡️ Book a fabulous stay at Spier
Stellenbosch Wineries Map
Here’s a map of the 13 BEST Stellenbosch Wineries 2023 to help you decide which wineries to go to, perhaps group 2-3 together over a couple of days.
Best Wine Tasting In Stellenbosch
Depending on how long you stay in Stellenbosch, there is a nice variety of activities around wine tasting including eBike tours, half and full-day tours, and wine safaris.
Best Full Day, Private Guided Wine Tour – Stellenbosch Wineries
Whether you’re a wine novice or an enthusiast, join this guided tour by Jim, a knowledgeable expert fluent in both English and Swedish. With Jim, you’ll explore the intricacies of wine, delve into the realms of history, culture, and nature, and feel free to inquire about his passion for winemaking and African heritage.
➡️ Reserve this Private Full Tour
Best Half Day, Guided Wine Tour Including Historic Stellenbosch – Stellenbosch Wineries
This is a great 4-hour tour if you want to learn a little about Stellenbosch wineries and history and do a wine tasting. Depending on time, you might even squeeze two tastings in.
Best eBike Tour in Stellenbosch – Stellenbosch Wineries
Embark on a memorable cycling adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Stellenbosch wineries, leading you into the breathtaking Jonkershoek Valley. Explore two charming wine estates in the mountains, and indulge in delightful wine and chocolate tastings, complemented by an educational cellar tour.
➡️ Reserve this Amazing Bike Tour
Where To Stay In Stellenbosch
📍Budget Option: Lucano Stellenbosch – Fabulous location, one bedroom, one bathroom with kitchenette, private parking, even a BBQ!
📍Mid-Range Option: Gemoedsrus Farm – Gemoedsrus Farm features views of the surrounding winelands and offers amenities including an outdoor swimming pool and barbecue facilities. Some of the rooms are fitted with a kitchenette.
📍Luxury Option: Lanzerac Winery and Hotel – There are so many options in this category, but we found that Lanzerac in the Jonkershoek Valley, surrounded by the Helderberg Mountains offered everything we wanted, privacy, luxury, wine on the estate, incredible rooms, spa, grounds and restaurant, plus it was so close to town!
Stellenbosch Wineries: FAQs
We were a bit overwhelmed planning this first trip to Stellenbosch, so you’re bound to have all sorts of questions as well. Unless you’re a wine connoisseur or sommelier doing research, you should combine your wine tasting with other activities as Stellenbosch is just gorgeous throughout the year. The best time to go is their fall (opposite of ours, so spring in the USA) but that’s also the most crowded and expensive time to visit Stellenbosch Winereies. When we went recently in August, their winter — we got great deals and were often were the only ones in the Stellenbosch wineries. The small town of Stellenbosch has great restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.
Eat at The Fat Butcher in Stellenbosch. Be sure to have a reservation.
How many wineries are there in Stellenbosch?
There are at least 170 according to local experts.
What wines is Stellenbosch known for?
Think of Stellenbosch as Napa Valley with very similar productions. The most esteemed wines typically originate from vineyards situated on the alluvial fans of the ancient granite mountains. These wines are frequently characterized by a delicate mineral undertone (which you can really taste in some of the wines!), believed to stem from the decomposed granite soils of these areas. Remarkably, the granite mountains boast an age of approximately 600 million years, making them over three times older than the soil found in Napa.
Reds: Syrah, Merlot, Pinotage and Cabs
Whites: Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier
Do they take US Dollars in Stellenbosh?
In South Africa, the official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR); US dollars aren’t commonly accepted. Rands work in Namibia and eSwatini. For other Southern and East African travels, having US dollars (USD) is highly practical. On our safaris in Kenya and Tanzania, we were delighted to use our US dollars.
What is the difference between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek?
Both of these areas, plus many others are comparable. Stellenbosch is a bit more central than Franschhoek so you’ll have more winery options with less of a drive. Think Napa vs. Sonoma.
Stellenbosch stands as South Africa’s second oldest town (1685) and arguably its most enchanting. In 1679, Governor Simon van der Stel recognized the Eerste River Valley as the ideal location to establish farms, catering to the increasing demands of ships voyaging from Europe to the Dutch East Indies via Cape Town. Beyond its historical charm, Stellenbosch is a culinary haven, hosting three restaurants currently ranked in South Africa’s top ten (Terroir, Rust en Vrede, and Overture). It also houses some of the country’s finest wine estates and is home to the prestigious Stellenbosch University. Also, if you’re on a budget, Stellenbosch will offer more options.
Franschhoek is very touristy and quite a bit smaller. The town is primarily structured along a single main street, complemented by secondary streets in a grid layout. Franschhoek’s charm lies in its compact size, making it more intimate than Stellenbosch, with a lush mountainous backdrop setting the scene. Amidst this picturesque setting, delightful street cafes and bistros abound, providing perfect spots to bask in the sunshine and unwind.
Conclusion: Stellenbosch Wineries
As you can see, there is such a wide variety of fabulous Stellenbosch wineries to choose from, along with other excellent activities to explore the charm of this unique wine-making unique. Pick from any of these wineries to ensure you have the best cellar experience while enjoying the extraordinary mountains and valleys.
From the historical significance of Lanzerac Winery to the artistry of the Delaire Graff Estate, this journey offers a realistic, first-hand experience of South Africa’s winemaking excellence. Picture yourself wandering through the vineyards of Waterford Estate, savoring the velvety textures of its wines and chocolates, or experiencing the sustainable practices at Babylonstoren. Feel the rustic charm of Meerlust Estate and the tranquility of Boschendal Farm Estate. Each winery visit unveils a unique narrative, inviting you to appreciate the craft, history, and passion behind every bottle.
This is the perfect escape for anyone and everyone, and extremely romantic as well. Let me know if you made it to all 13 Stellenbosch Wineries or which others you might add.
BTW – I am now a certified travel agent! So I can help you plan your amazing Cape Town and Stellenbosch travel. Just email me, and please join the subscriber list in the footer.
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