Winelands
South African wines, which are some of the finest in the world, originate within a 162 km radius of Cape Town. The soils and microclimates within this region are so varied that all different wines can be produced, from sweet and dry whites to roses, reds and wines in the style of Sherry and Port. There are about 15 wine estates and cooperatives that welcome visitors for yours and tasting.
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A winefarm surrounding a Cape Dutch homestead. These blend harmoniously with the backdrop of mountains and forests. |
The most popular grapes are: Riesling, Chardonay and Sylvaner among the whites, and cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Gamay and Merlot for the reds. The South African varieties are Steen (used to make sweet and medium-dry white, rose, and Champagne-style wines) and Pinotage (makes full red wines).
The map below shows the Winelands region. The two principal centres in the Winelands are Stellenbosch and Paarl. Other settlements include Wellington and Franschoek.
The two principal centres in the winelands are Stellenbosch and Paarl.
Stellenbosch
Under 50 km east of central Cape Town, Stellenbosch has more beautiful old buildings than any other municipality in South Africa. It's an aesthetically pleasing and relaxed university town named after the great 17th Century wine enthusiast Governor Van der Stel. Fires destroyed the original thatched cottages, and the best of the buildings on view today date from between 1775 and 1820.
One such building is Grosvenor House which is an early 19th Century mansion. It has an amazing garden and is filled with authentic Old Cape furnishings.
Paarl
Paarl is about 60 km from Cape Town, just off the N1 motorway. It's about twice the size of Stellenbosch, with a huge modern civic centre that is also home to the information office. Paarl, however, is an old town whose main street is lined with historic buildings, working vineyards, and the headquarters of KWV (Coopeative Wine Growers Association).