10 Best Stellenbosch Wineries & Wine Farms in South Africa

When it comes to the ultimate wine country trip, South Africa and its Stellenbosch wineries always top my list.

Not only do they offer incredible wines that are an excellent bang for your buck, but the region itself is simply stunning. And let’s not forget about the mouthwatering food!

But with more than 150 wineries in Stellenbosch to choose from, it can be hard to narrow your list down. That’s where I come in.

As a certified wine expert, I’ve personally explored the region and hand-picked the cream of the crop. This curated list includes my absolute favorite Stellenbosch wine farms. And I’ve put together all the details to plan your visit. So let’s get started!

The 10 Best Stellenbosch Wineries

While there are many great options in this wine region, these are some of the best wineries in Stellenbosch for exceptional wines, beautiful views, and wonderful hospitality.

1. Rust en Vrede

The Governor of Cape Town, one of the original South African winemakers, granted the land for the Rust en Vrede property all the way back in 1694. And the current owners, the Engelbrecht family, acquired it in 1977.

Jannie and Ellen Engelbrecht first tackled restoring the beautiful Cape Dutch buildings on the property to their former glory. And then produced their first vintage of wine in 1978.

The vineyards are planted on the warmer north-facing slopes, ideal conditions for making some of South Africa’s best red wines.

In fact, Nelson Mandela selected Rust en Vrede wines to be served at the Nobel Peace Prize dinner. Not to mention, they had the first South African red wine named to Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines in the World.

Wines to Try

Their Cabernet Sauvignons are stunning, with concentrated blackcurrant flavors balanced with fresh acidity. I also love their soft and elegant style Syrahs. And don’t miss trying their Estate blend for a Bordeaux-style wine with a Syrah twist.

Visiting

Enjoy a wine tasting on their picturesque terrace, overlooking the lush lawn. Then ask the tasting room staff for an informal tour to get a peek at the underground wine cellar.

And if you’re a foodie, don’t miss their award-winning restaurant. Named one of San Pellegrino’s Top 100 Restaurants in the World, they serve up contemporary French cuisine with inspiration from the chef’s Brazilian and Italian heritage.

Make it a stop for lunch with a glass of wine. Or splurge for the 6-course dinner with wine pairings. Just be sure to make a reservation well in advance.

2. Warwick Estate

Norma Ratliffe is credited with being the first female winemaker to operate commercially in South Africa. She, along with her husband Stan, bought the land for Warwick Wine Estate in 1964.

It took about 20 years to release their first wine, a Cabernet Sauvignon named La Femme Bleau. Not long after, they bottled South Africa’s first-ever Cape Blend, whose claim to fame is a cameo in a James Bond film.

Today, Warwick makes blends and single-varietal wines, many with their signature “lady” names.

Fun fact: The Wedding Cup symbol on their label comes from the legend of Princess Kunigunde. Her father disapproved of her love for a young goldsmith. He challenged the goldsmith to make a cup that two people could drink from at the same time.

The goldsmith’s love of the princess was so great that he succeeded in this seemingly impossible task within a matter of days. The two were able to marry and live happily ever after (or at least enjoy drinking wine together out of their new fancy cup).

Wines to Try

Don’t miss the Three Cape Ladies, a Pinotage-based Cape Blend. And the award-winning Trilogy blend, with spicy peppery notes from Cabernet Franc. I also loved their crisp Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

Visiting

Warwick is the perfect place for a winery picnic. The lawn is dappled with blankets and oversized pillows that you can recline on like royalty. Enjoy a gourmet picnic box with a bottle of wine. Or book the Harvest Table for a 4-course meal in their majestic forest courtyard.

For those seeking adventure, see if you can spot the “big five” on a wine safari. No, we’re not talking about lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos. These are the big five grapes! Hop on an open-top safari vehicle to tour Warwick vineyards and learn all about grape growing from your “safari guide.”

3. Simonsig Wine Estate

For you bubbly lovers, Méthode Cap Classique is South Arica’s answer to Champagne. And Simonsig Wine Estate is home to the original version. Frans Malan, the founder, produced the first bottle in South Africa.

These wines are made in the traditional method used for Champagne. This is when a secondary fermentation happens in the bottle. This gives the wine those delicious notes of toast and brioche.

Simonsig makes a range of these sparklers, from dry (Brut) to sweet (Demi-Sec). Plus, rosé and a Blanc de Blanc (meaning a white wine made from white grapes).

Wines to Try

Their sparkling wines are delicious. And Simonsig also makes excellent still wines. You can try reds from Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, and Syrah. Or whites from Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and even Gewürztraminer.

Visiting

Walk-ins are welcome, but I recommend making a reservation on weekends or for larger groups. Grab one of their artisanal cheese and charcuterie platters to accompany your tasting.

While there, you may even get to witness a Sabrage demonstration. This technique is used to open a bottle of sparkling wine with a saber (yes, like a sword!). You slide the blunt side of it up the neck of the bottle and, with enough force, it will break the top of the neck off.

4. Delheim Wine Estate

The original vineyards of Delheim Wine Estate were planted in the 1940s. Michael Sperling, known as “Spatz” to those in the know, took over the winery in the late 1950s.

Spatz taught himself winemaking, began winning awards, and became a major player in South African wine. In 1971, he got together with Frans Malan of Simonsig and Neil Joubert of Spier Wine Farm and created the Stellenbosch wine route, the first in South Africa.

Wines to Try

You’ll find some unique wines here, like the Spatzendreck dessert wine made from white grapes left on the vine to dry out (a technique called passerillage). This concentrates the sugars and, after barrel aging, results in luscious flavors of dried fruits, honey, and toasted almonds.

If you’re a rosé lover, try the Pinotage Rosé, the first of its kind when it was released in 1976. And I personally loved their Grand Reserve, a smooth Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

Visiting

A tasting on their garden patio is lovely, with a beautiful view of Table Mountain. But for some real character, I recommend heading to the downstairs cellar. The old-bottle-lined walls and cobweb-filled windows give it an authentic feel you won’t see elsewhere.

While you’re there, you can enjoy dishes like Springbok carpaccio, lamb shank, and bacon benedict at their on-site restaurant. And for those with a sweet tooth, try the cupcake and dessert wine pairing!

5. Thelema Mountain Vineyards

From working as an accountant to selling out wines within a month of release in just a decade, Gyles Webb is the Cinderella story of Stellenbosch.

After falling in love with Burgundy, Gyles and family founded Thelema in 1983. The first wines were released in 1988. And they became so successful that they bought a second vineyard in 2002, which is bottled under the Sutherland label.

Thelema wines are warmer-climate varieties grown in Stellenbosch. Sutherland wines are a cool-climate style with grapes grown in Elgin Valley, a high-altitude plateau cooled by ocean breezes.

Wines to Try

A comparative tasting of the Thelema and Sutherland wines is a great way to see how climate and terroir impacts the style of wine.

I love Thelema’s bold and complex Cabernet Sauvignons. They’re one of my regular purchases back home since visiting. But if you’re more of a Burgundy lover, the Sutherland Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are excellent too.

Visiting

Reservations are recommended for tastings at their beautiful estate. You’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain views. And if you take any bottles with you, your tasting is on the house.

6. Beyerskloof

If you’re a fan of Pinotage, Beyerskloof is the place for you. Founded in 1988 by Beyers Truter, this Stellenbosch wine farm won best Pinotage at the 2018 International Wine & Spirits Competition.

They use bush vines and strive for smaller berries. This makes the wines more concentrated and complex.

Beyers’ son Anri currently runs Beyerskloof and focuses almost exclusively on Pinotage and Pinotage blends.

Wines to Try

The Pinotage is of course where it’s at here. I love their traditional red style. But they also produce it as a nice dry rosé. And even as a white wine blended with Chenin Blanc.

Visiting

Wine tasting flights include options for a mix of five white, rosé, and red wines, or all red wines. Or you can book a private tasting of their premium wines and older vintages in the Winemaker’s Cellar.

And if you’re hungry, check out the Red Leaf Bistro where you can dine while overlooking the vines. Don’t miss their specialty — the Pinotage burger with an onion reduction made with…you guessed it, Pinotage.

If you don’t make it to their winery, Beyerskloof also has a wine bar (called Wynbar) in downtown Stellenbosch where you can sample their wines and snack on some sliders and “sarmies.”

7. Tokara

For a modern, yet family-friendly winery option, check out Tokara. The name comes from a combination of the founders’ children’s names, Thomas and Kara.

And if great wines, delicious olive oil, a farm-to-table restaurant, and an art gallery weren’t enough, they also have an outdoor play area for the little ones.

Tokara is perched on the side of a hill, with sweeping views of the surrounding vineyard-lined slopes. The first vines were planted in the mid-90s on the upper slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain. These sit next to their olive groves, from which they produce olive oil that rivals the ones I tasted at Crete wineries.

Wines to Try

Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc are the speciality here. But you’ll also find Chardonnay, Syrah, and Semillon. These are made as both blends from different sites and as single vineyard wines.

And if your a fan of spirits, check out their Chenin Blanc-based brandy. Plus, they make a delicious dessert wine from nobly rotted Sauvignon Blanc grapes.

Visiting

Book ahead to sample Tokara’s wines and olive oil. Enjoy a cheese platter with your tasting or grab a bite from the delicatessen. Afterward, you can stroll through the art gallery and sculpture park to walk off all that food.

For a special treat, make a dinner reservation, which includes a four or six-course chef’s menu with wine pairings.

8. Neethlingshof Estate

Vines have been grown on the Neethlingshof vineyards since the late 1600s. It’s changed hands a few times since then, but today the Schreiber Family owns it. And they produce a variety of different vegan-friendly estate-grown wines.

Tasting options include samples from their Estate Range of nearly a dozen white and red single-variety wines. I also recommend tasting the Short Story Collection, with each wine representing a different tale from Neethlingshof’s history. They also offer fun food experiences like chocolate pairing.

If you’re looking for a good lunch spot, Neethlingshof has a deli and a wine garden with a selection of pizzas and platters. And you can enjoy live music on Wednesday evenings.

9. Meerlust Estate

Meerlust is one of the oldest wine farms. The Myburgh family has been producing wine on the Meerlust Estate for eight generations. They specialize in red wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.

Their flagship wine is the Rubicon, one of my favorite wines from South Africa. This Bordeaux-style blend was inspired by Nico Myburgh’s trip to France in the 1970s. And I’ve tried a number of their other wines and they’re all excellent.

You can taste the full range and learn about the history of Meerlust in their wine tasting room. And if you’re looking for unique places to stay in wine country, check out their on-site accommodation options.

10. Kanonkop Wine Estate

For you Pinotage lovers, Kanonkop is a must-visit. This red-wine-only producer is one of the best examples of Pinotage I’ve tasted.

You can even do a Pinotage-only tasting, including six different wines made from the grape. Other options include sampling Kanonkop’s full range of current vintage wines. And single samples of their premium Estate range.

While you’re there, don’t miss taking a self-guided tour of their cellar and visiting the art gallery.

Pin for Later!

Best Stellenbosch Wine Tour

Wine tours are a great way to explore the Stellenbosch region without having to drive yourself.

I’d recommend this private tour that allows you to customize your itinerary based on the wineries you’re most interested in visiting.

Or if you’re looking for a more affordable option or like the social aspect of a group tour, this is a great full-day tour that visits some of the top wineries.

🚌 Book the Private Tour or the Group Tour

^{Recommendations may be affiliate links on which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me share new wine destinations with you and I only recommend products and services that I love and think you’ll love too!}

Where to Stay for Stellenbosch Wine Tasting

The picturesque town of Stellenbosch is about a half-hour drive from Cape Town International Airport. It’s the second oldest town in South Africa, known for its Cape Dutch architecture. And it’s home to the University of Stellenbosch.

The Eendracht Hotel is a great boutique hotel option that’s also a fantastic value. It’s right in the center of town just steps from all the best restaurants and wine bars. The hotel also serves up a delicious complimentary breakfast.

🏨 Book the Eendracht Hotel

FAQs About Visiting Wineries in Stellenbosch

What Wine is Produced in Stellenbosch?

Stellenbosch is known for top-quality red wines. The region specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which are often blended to create a Bordeaux-style wine. You’ll also see quite a bit of Syrah too.

For whites, Chenin Blanc is the most widely planted grape in South Africa. It’s made in both dry and sweet styles and sometimes sees oak. In cooler sites, they’ve been successful with growing high-quality Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay as well.

South Africa is also credited with creating the Pinotage grape. This crossing between Pinot Noir and Cinsault is often described as having flavors of chocolate and coffee. And it’s the main component in what’s known as a Cape Blend.

When is the Best Time to Visit Stellenbosch Wineries?

If you’re traveling from the Northern Hemisphere, keep in mind that the seasons are reversed in South Africa. So, the grape harvest in Stellenbosch usually happens at the beginning of the year (January to March). These are also some of the warmest months.

I recommend visiting the Cape Winelands during March, April, September, or December. These are the best months for great weather and you’ll avoid peak season. 

How Many Wineries Are There in Stellenbosch?

The Stellenbosch region has more than 150 wineries.

Do You Need Reservations for Stellenbosch Wineries?

While not all Stellenbosch wine estates require reservations, it’s a good idea to book ahead. Especially during the busy season so you don’t miss out on visiting your top choices.

How Much is a Tasting at Stellenbosch Wine Farms?

Stellenbosch has incredibly affordable wine tastings compared to other wine regions. Most are in the $5 range but you’ll find some are as little as $2. Plus, if you buy a bottle, they’ll often waive your tasting fee.

Is There a Train From Cape Town to Stellenbosch?

There isn’t a train that goes from Cape Town to Stellenbosch. But South Africa does have rideshare apps like Uber that would be a good option. And at less than a 45 minutes drive, it’s definitely doable as a day trip.

Stellenbosch Wine Region

Stellenbosch’s Climate and Terroir

When you think Africa, you think hot, right? Based on its latitude, the Stellenbosch region should have a hot climate. In fact, it does have a Mediterranean climate, meaning temperatures are fairly consistent year-round. And summers (i.e., the growing season) tend to be warm and dry.

But there are a few things that cool down the Western Cape of South Africa. And this makes it an ideal location for wine grape growing.

First, you have the Benguela Current. This brings icy-cold water up from Antarctica. It flows along the west coast of Africa, making the South Ocean pretty darn chilly.

Then there’s the Cape Doctor. What does a doctor have to do with wine you ask? Well, this isn’t your stethoscope-wearing-prescription-wielding kind of doctor. It’s the local name for the strong summer winds that bring cool air from the ocean further inland.

On top of all of that, you’ve got the surrounding mountains. These sky-scraping beauties channel the winds from nearby False Bay through the vineyards, cooling them further.

They also give plenty of options for planting at higher altitudes to get off the warm valley floors. And vines can be planted on south-facing slopes, which see less sun and heat than those that face north toward the equator.

History of South African Wine

South African wine is somewhere between Old World and New World. The country has been making wine as far back as the 1600s. But they had a few hiccups along the way that have prevented them from gaining international popularity.

The first wines were made by Dutch settlers during the days when Cape Town was a stopover for The Dutch East India Company. At the time, wine was thought to prevent scurvy. We’re not sure how good the wine was, but it at least appeased all those drunken sailors!

Moving into the 1700s and 1800s, dessert wines were all the rage throughout the world. And South Africa became famous for Constantia, a sweet wine originally produced by the Governor of Cape Town.

Then South African wines took a big hit in the late 1800s when phylloxera arrived. The root louse wiped out pretty much all the vineyards.

And just when they were starting to recover, apartheid began in 1948. Many countries boycotted products from South Africa. So, the wines were essentially cut off from the rest of the world.

Since apartheid’s end in 1994, it’s taken some time to get visibility in the wine industry. But South African wines are on the rise.

Today, there are more than 500 wineries in South Africa, and it’s becoming a hot spot for wine tourism.