Top Wine Estates
The historic Cape Winelands terminates in the north in the shadow of Grootwinterhoek Peak, around the town of Tulbagh. It lies in the long valley between the Grootwinterhoek, the Hexrivier and the Witsenberg Mountain ranges, where the Berg River has cut its way out of the Western Cape's mountain vortex.
The climate of the valley allows for fertile soil and pristine grape growing, with the most diverse and attractive conditions for viticulture in the Cape. There are a number of wineries and private cellars in the region, and Tulbagh has always been a pioneer in innovative wine-making. A wide diversity of distinctive wines can be produced in the valley, which has attracted many new-age producers.
Twee Jonge Gezellen is a family-owned farm in the Tulbagh valley flanked by rugged mountains. They have vineyards reaching up the east-facing slopes of the Saron Peak, while the cellar lies at the foot of the mountains. The wine farm has a rich history dating back 300 years, but is well-known for its innovation. In the 1950’s, the farm introduced the cold fermentation process, which was a first for the wine industry of South Africa. The estate specialises in producing Krone Sparkling Wines and Méthode Cap Classique. They have a dedicated tasting deck for visitors to enjoy their superb offerings.
Drostdy-hof Wine Estate was first established in 1964 at the foot slopes of the Winterhoek Mountains. The Estate has a number of award-winning wines, including the Drostdy-Hof Chardonnay 2010 vintage that won a gold medal at the 2011 Decanter World Wine Awards in London. The Estate produces easy-drinking wines with an authentic fruitiness. Drostdy offers daily tastings, as well as a tasting by candlelight for the romantic wine-lovers.
Manley Private Cellar started as a small enterprise producing white wines, but planted red grapes in 1999 and is now known for its fine reds. The annually produce 5 000 - 40 000 bottles of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Merlot and Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc blend. They aim to make wines that are easily drinkable with lasting quality.
Blue Crane Vineyards is named after two blue cranes that were found nesting on the farm in 2008. The vineyards are set amongst the picturesque mountains of Witzenberg, Winterhoek and Saronsberg. They produce award-winning wines and are invested in improving the area’s natural ecology. The estate boasts with a tasting room and restaurant that visitors can enjoy.
Head across the magnificent Du Toitskloof Mountains and the vine-clad expanse of the Breede River Valley onto Route 62 , and you’ll experi...