Now it’s no secret that we love wine, and there’s no better place in the world to indulge in the divine elixir than Cape Town. Our ocean breezes, clay-rich soils and perfect temperatures mean that the city and its surroundings are some of the best places on earth to grow grapes. Pair this with stunning architecture, the summer sun and a guide like Pure Local and you’ve got a life-changing experience that will transform your view of the grape forever.
So, without further ado, let’s run through our top 12 wine experiences in and around the mother city:
#1 – Constantia Glen
Only in Cape Town can you experience the exquisite stillness and grand opulence of a 200-year-old wine farm nestled 20km from the city centre. Constantia Glen boasts expansive views of the Constantia valley and a historic charm that just can’t be bought.
PURE LOCAL TIP: Make sure to try their ‘Constantia Glen Five’ wine – a blend of five archetypal Bordeaux varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.
#2 – Beau Constantia
Another Constantia farm located just a stone’s throw from the city centre – perfect for a midday tasting without the fuss of driving to Stellenbosch or Franschhoek. Beau Constantia is more modern than Constantia Glen, studded with jaw-dropping architecture and sweeping views of the vineyards.
PURE LOCAL TIP: Try and get a booking at their on-farm restaurant, Chef’s Warehouse, for the best tapas you’ll ever have.
#3 – Boschendal
Located just an hour outside of Cape Town, Boschendal sits regally between the Simonsberg and Drakenstein mountains. It’s the second-oldest wine farm in the Cape, dating back to 1685, and this shines through its old-world charm and architectural splendour.
PURE LOCAL TIP: They do incredible picnics using only naturally grown produce from the estate, perfect for a day-trip with family or friends.
#4 – Tokara
A fusion of wine, art and fine dining, Tokara oozes luxury at every turn. Located just outside Stellenbosch the modern estate offers spectacular views (this seems to be a theme here), and a delicious fine-dining restaurant appointed by five large-scale William Kentridge tapestries.
PURE LOCAL TIP: Tokara is almost more art-gallery than wine farm, and it’s worth going just to explore their gallery.
#5 – Silvermist Estate
Silvermist is perched just above its Constantia counterparts glen and beau. The estate’s position only 20 minutes from the inner city makes it a practical and beautiful solution for time-pressed patrons. The estate is also completely organic, serving as a biological haven for birds and insect life.
PURE LOCAL TIP: If you’re organised enough try and get a booking at La Colombe, currently ranked as the seventh-best restaurant in the world.
#6 – Delaire
Referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Cape Winelands’, Delaire Graff is more than a winery, it’s an estate. Boasting everything from fine dining restaurants, boutique spa experiences, luxury lodges and state-of-the-art wineries this Stellenbosch giant is well worth an afternoon visit, or a whole weekend!
PURE LOCAL TIP: They have the most insane art collection, make sure to join one of the tours!
#7 – Cavalli
Located in the Helderberg region of Stellenbosch, Cavalli’s philosophy centrs around their love for horses and the Cape floral kingdom. Reflected in the state of the art equestrian centre, extensive fynbos gardens and sustainable architectural design, the estate is a perfect blend between the natural world and the modern.
PURE LOCAL TIP: This is one of our favourite wedding venues in the country if you can get a booking 😉
#8 – La Petite Ferme
Finally, we move onto Franschhoek. This celebrated wine-region of SA is only a stone’s throw from Stellenbosch but the surrounding mountains lead to more rain and different varieties of grapes. La Petite Ferme’s dedication to spectacular service is what makes them stand out in our books, and their luxe accommodation makes it the perfect place for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.
PURE LOCAL TIP: A firm Pure Local Franschhoek Fave to wine, dine and stay.
#9 – Grand Provence
Another Franschhoek fave, Grand Provence is truly a sight to behold, as she wears her 325-year-history with grace. The breathtaking architectural features, manicured gardens and delicious wines make for an experience that is certain to uplift and satisfy the spirit.
PURE LOCAL TIP: Who wouldn’t love an oyster happy hour from 5pm – 6pm every day this summer? Just saying…
#10 – Buitenvervachting
Another Constantia gem, originally a part of the extensive Constantia estate, this restored historical marvel is steeped in legend and mystery. Its unpretentious charm makes it a relaxing place to grab a glass and chill with some friends or family.
PURE LOCAL TIP: We love buying a bottle of wine and sharing it outside their tasting room on the lawns.
#11 Waterford:
A wine estate with a difference. Located just outside Stellenbosch, Waterford prides itself on simplicity and connection with the natural world. The terracotta architecture is perfectly complimented by sustainable farming practices and acres of untouched fynbos. A natural haven to indulge in the finer things in life.
PURE LOCAL TIP: The chocolate and wine pairing is divine!
#11 Creation:
Situated a little further outside the city in the Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) region near Hermanus, Creation has one main focus: Wine. Their unique position within the Cape Wine region has granted them a highly elevated terroir and allowed them to grow different varieties of grapes to those grown elsewhere in the country. Visit them for an exquisite tasting experience, and take a stroll through their magnificent sculpture garden.
PURE LOCAL TIP: We’re VERY excited about Creations gin, which is being released in 2020.