Stellenbosch is one of the two main towns in the Cape Winelands, the other being Franschhoek (read more about our top Franschhoek wineries here). A must-visit destination, this historic town is surrounded by some of the best wineries in the country. Just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town, you can make it a day trip or stay over in a winelands cottage or luxury hotel. Ready to explore? Here are just some of the top wineries around Stellenbosch.
Details correct as of June 2018
Delaire Graff Estate
One of the fanciest wine estates in South Africa, it’s worth a visit to Delaire Graff for the ‘wow factor’ alone. Owned by Laurence Graff of Graff Diamonds, the estate is packed with art, from sculptures to paintings, and the views across the valley are sensational. If you’re thinking about popping the question during a trip to South Africa, this is a top spot. Delaire is also home to a luxury hotel with two excellent restaurants.
Opening hours – daily, 10am-5.30pm.
Meerlust
Meerlust is one of the most historic wine estates in the Cape Winelands, dating back to 1756. It is still owned by the Myburg family who founded it – currently, it’s helmed by Hannes Mybrug, the eighth generation of wine makers at Meerlust. Learn about the family history and a bit of Western Cape history too, whilst enjoying some of the excellent wine: make sure you try their famous Rubicon.
Opening hours – Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat, 10am-2pm.
De Trafford
A little out of the way, but worth the journey, De Trafford is a little family-run winery overlooking a stunning valley. They only have a small turnover, but their attention to detail is second-to-none. Rita Trafford, wife of wine maker David, paints the beautiful chenin blanc labels, creating a new design for each vintage. Sit around the farm house’s wooden table for a personal and intimate wine tasting.
Opening hours – Sat, 10am-1pm; Mon-Fri, by appointment.
DeMorgenzon
One of the most original things about DeMorgenzon is that they play classical music to their vines 24/7. Perhaps it works, because this is one of the top wineries in Stellenbosch. On your way in, admire the colourful wild flowers that grow amongst the vines.
Opening hours – Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm.
Jordan Wine Estate
Just down the road from DeMorgenzon, Jordan Wine Estate is based on a farm with 300 years of history. It’s not only a great place for some wine tasting, but the perfect place for a scenic lunch. Ask for a table on the terrace overlooking the lake and the surrounding rolling hills.
Opening hours – Mar-Oct, daily, 9.30am-4.30pm; Nov-Feb, Mon-Wed & Sun, 9.30am-6.30pm; Thurs-Sat, 9.30am-6.30pm.
Stark-Condé
Idyllic Stark-Condé has its wine tasting area located on a little island in the middle of a pond surrounded by mountains. This winery uses traditional methods in their wine making, such as manual basket pressing, and all wines are bottled without using filtration. After you’ve sampled their delicious wines, stop by the Postcard Café for a bite to eat.
Opening hours – daily, 10am-4pm.
Read more about the Cape Winelands here – or get in touch to plan your trip.