South Africa is well-known for its world-class wines and stunning vineyards

Below is a list of some of South Africa’s best, well-known wine farms & what they have to offer:

1. Anthonij Rupert Wyne (2003)

Anthonij Rupert Wyne Estate is located in the heart of South Africa's picturesque Franschhoek Valley, which is renowned for its spectacular vineyards and wineries.

Here are some of the highlights of Anthonij Rupert Wyne Estate:

1. 1. Anthonij Rupert Tasting Room: The estate offers a range of wine tasting experiences; including with nougat and High Tea The knowledgeable staff will guide you through a range of award-winning wines, including red, white, and sparkling varieties 

2. 2. Terra del Capo Antipasti Bar & Tasting Room: This stylish tasting room is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and soak in the beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards. Enjoy delicious antipasti, Italian cheese & Wine pairings, Shiraz & Charcuterie tastings

3. 3. The Franschhoek Motor Museum: The estate is also home to a world-class collection of 80 vintage and rare automobiles, housed in a museum on the property. Car enthusiasts will be delighted by the unique collection. The Estate Package is a tram tour that can be booked. Starting at the Anthonij Rupert Tasting Room, it takes you on a tour to the Franschoek Motor Musuem, followed by an antipasti set menu lunch paired with wines from their Terra del Capo wine range, and ends off with a wine tasting at Anthonij Rupert tasting room, featuring their premium wine ranges.

4. 4. Olive Oil Tasting: The estate offers tastings of their Award winning Estate produced Extra Virgin Olive Oils with freshly baked bread ad their marinated olives. You will also learn how to select the best olive oils and how they are produced.
5. 5. Classic Car Drive: You can book a chauffered drive on weekends around the estate in an available classic car!

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2. Babylonstoren (1692)

One of the oldest working Cape Dutch farms, Babylonstoren is a true gem in the heart of South Africa's Cape Winelands. This 300-year-old working farm has been transformed into a luxurious and sustainable retreat, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. 

Here are some reasons why you should visit Babylonstoren:

1. 1. Gardens: The estate is well-known for its acres of beautiful gardens. The gardens are divided into different sections, each featuring a variety of plants and herbs. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gardens, which includes a tasting of seasonal fruits and vegetables. The Babylonstoren Garden is so beautiful that it has its own coffee-book which can be purchased here.
2. 2. Farm-to-table dining: Babylonstoren has several restaurants with a farm-to-fork philosophy:
1. - Babel Restaurant: Found in an old converted cow shed, Babel's beautiful Cape Dutch architecture with contemporary glass walls is representative of their delicious yet unconventional offerings. 
1. - The Greenhouse: Found at the rear end of the garden, it offers a retreat after walking through the garden. All their food is served picnic-style, highlighting fresh and seasonal ingredients inspired by their garden. The Spice House  is a tranquil greenhouse which tells the tale of the ancient spice trade with the East through a unique menu and 
2. - The Bakery: Their bakery supplies the Farm Shop & restaurants during the day, and by night serves up Italian family style food; allowing guests to dish up for themselves while sipping on the farms wines. 
3. 3. Tastings: Babylonstoren farm produces wine, olive oil & teas. Their range of wines, includes Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Shiraz. Visitors can taste Babylonstoren wines in the tasting room, which features views of the surrounding vineyards.
4. 4. Farm experiences: Babylonstoren has a multitude of experiences on offer. Tour through the gardens or underground in their cellar tunnels. Stroll through The Story of Wine, their new wine museum. Attend weekly workshops hosted by master gardeners, chefs and specialists on a range of different topics such as beekeeping and cheese making, and a chance to feed the farm animals. Visit the Farm Shop (also available online) which features Fine Living (Scented Room & Homeware) and Farm Fresh sections (Milk Room, Meat Room, Bakery & Lekker Room)
5. 5. Accommodation: Babylonstoren has several accommodation options, including hotel suites, cottages, and a farmhouse. Each room is unique and features a mix of modern and antique furnishings.
6. 6. Wellness spa: The estate has a wellness spa, which offers a range of treatments inspired by the gardens and the surrounding landscape.

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3. Delaire Graff Estate (2003)

A luxurious wine estate located in Stellenbosch, this estate boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. Ranked as one of the most prestigious wineries in the world, it has produced some of South Africa's best wines.

Here are some of the highlights of Delaire Graff wine estate:

1. 1. Wine tasting: Delaire Graff is known for producing some of the best wines in South Africa, including their Bordeaux-style blends and Chardonnay. Visitors can taste a range of Delaire Graff wines in the tasting room, which offers stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains.
2. 2. Art & Gardens: The gardens have been designed by globally recognised, celebrity horticulturist Keith Kirsten, and feature an extensive sculpture collection, with works by famous South African artists like Anton Smit, Lionel Smit, and Dylan Lewis. Laurence Graff's private art collection of more than 400 works includes paintings, sculptures and installations are displayed throughout the estate.
3. 3. Luxury accommodation & Spa: Delaire Graff offers several luxurious accommodation options, including lodges, suites, and a villa. Each room features modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
4. 4. Dining: The estate has two restaurants, Indochine and the Delaire Graff Restaurant, which offer fine dining experiences. The menus feature locally sourced ingredients and are paired with Delaire Graff wines.
5. 5. Boutiques: The estate is home to three exclusive flagship boutiques. 1. Graff: The only destination in Africa with Graff's exquisite jewellery & watches on offer. 2. 100% Capri: Luxury Italian linen clothing brand. 3. Africa Nova: Traditional & contemporary African art

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4. Jordan (1982) 

A boutique wine estate located in Stellenbosch. The estate produces a range of exceptional wines, including a signature Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon. The estate also has a restaurant that offers panoramic views of the vineyards, making it an ideal location for a luxurious wine tasting experience.

Jordan Wine Estate is located in the Stellenbosch Wine Route of South Africa. Here are some of the highlights of Jordan Wine Estate:

1. 1. Wine tasting: Jordan Wine Estate produces a range of award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can taste these wines in the tasting room, which offers views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains.
2. 2. Restaurant: The estate has 2 restaurants;
1. 'The Cellar Door at Jordan' focuses on their award-winning wines that are all offered for tasting alongside fresh, light meals - all served on their beautiful deck under the trees.
2. Their main restaurant, 'The Jordan Restaurant with Marthinus Ferreria' (One of South Africa's top chefs) also offers a wine and food pairing option with every meal. Marthinus uses his finely tuned skills while maintaining a strong focus on homegrown farm to table, ethically sourced meat from local farmers, and the freshest seasonal ingredients.
3. 3. Cellar tours: Jordan Wine Estate offers cellar tours, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and see the barrel cellar and bottling line.
4. 4. Accommodation: The estate has 13 luxury suites, called 'The Luxury Suites at Jordan.' They accommodate up to 30 people sharing, which includes 2 x 2 bedroom suites that can sleep 4 people at a time. Accommodation includes wine, wine tasting, breakfast, and if booked directly you’ll also receive R1000 credit which can be put towards dinner or lunch at either of their 2 restaurants, picnics, vineyard tours, cellar tours or even purchasing wine. (2023)

• 5. Outdoor activities: The estate offers picnics, and is connected to the Bottelary Mountain Bike. Conservancy. Day passes may be purchased that grant you access to almost 70km of single track featuring stunning views of the vineyards, Table Mountain and the Stellenbosch Winelands.

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5. Klein Constantia (1685)

This renowned winery dates back to 1685 and is described as one of the world's most beautiful wine estates. Klein Constantia produces some of South Africa’s top wines, including one of the world’s best natural sweet wines, Vin de Constance, which has been enjoyed by royalty and writers for centuries.

Here are some of the highlights of Klein Constantia estate:

1. 1. Wine tasting: Visitors can taste a range of Klein Constantia wines in the estate's tasting room, which offers beautiful views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains.
2. 2. Vin de Constance: Vin de Constance is a sweet wine made from Muscat grapes, which was famously enjoyed by Napoleon Bonaparte and was mentioned in Jane Austen's novel, Sense and Sensibility. Visitors can learn about the history of Vin de Constance and taste this renowned wine in the estate's tasting room.
3. 3. Historic Cape Dutch architecture: Klein Constantia's manor house dates back to the 17th century and features beautiful Cape Dutch architecture. The estate's buildings have been meticulously restored and offer a glimpse into South Africa's past.
4. 4. Dining: Alongside their elegant tasting room & under the jacaranda trees you can find The Bistro. Offering country bistro style food with fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients that are complemented with a selection of Klein Constantia wines as well as older and rare vintages from their wine library.
5. 5. Scenic location: Klein Constantia is situated in a beautiful, conserved location, with stunning views of the vineyards, mountains, and ocean. Visitors can take a walk through the estate's gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

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6. La Motte (1752)

A premium wine estate located in the Franschhoek Valley that has much to offer, from restaurants, shops, wine and food pairings to cellar tours, and a museum that showcases the history of wine in South Africa.

La Motte Estate is a picturesque wine estate located in the Franschhoek Wine Valley of South Africa. Here are some of the highlights of La Motte Estate:

1. 1. Wine tasting: La Motte Estate is renowned for producing a range of award-winning wines, including Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Visitors can taste these wines in the estate's Historic Cellar, which features beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains.
2. 2. Art collection: La Motte Estate has a unique collection of South African art, which is displayed throughout the estate's buildings and gardens. The collection features works by artists such as JH Pierneef, Irma Stern, and William Kentridge.
3. 3. Historic architecture: La Motte Estate's buildings date back to the 18th century and feature beautiful Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture. The estate's buildings have been meticulously restored and offer a glimpse into South Africa's colonial past.
4. 4. Culinary experiences: La Motte Estate offers a range of culinary experiences, including a restaurant, a farm shop, and a bakery. The estate's restaurant, La Motte Restaurant is under renovations through 2023 and set to re-open in 2024. They have a seasonal culinary experience called JAN Franschhoek, situated alongside picturesque lavender fields and presented in a charming historic cottage. The Artisanal Bakery & Garden Cafe offers freshly baked goods and day time eating.
5. 5. Gardens: La Motte Estate has beautiful gardens, with ancient oaks, stretched lawns, tranquil pond and a farm-yard inspired playground for the children. There is a Grade 1B hiking trail on the estate, prior booking is essential and can be done here. 

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 7. Lanzerac (1692)

Lanzerac Estate is a historic landmark and Stellenbosch icon. It hosts an elegant five-star Country hotel, acclaimed bars, restaurants and Deli, a remarkable tasting venue, and a chic day spa.

Here are some of the highlights of Lanzerac Estate:

1. 1. Wine tasting: Lanzerac Estate produces a range of award-winning wines, including Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visitors can taste these wines in the estate's tasting room, which features beautiful views of the vineyards.
2. 2. Historic architecture: Lanzerac Estate is known for its beautiful Cape Dutch architecture, which dates back to the 18th century. The estate's buildings have been meticulously restored and offer a glimpse into South Africa's colonial past.
3. 3. Dining experiences: Lanzerac Estate has several dining options and has established itself as one of Stellenbosch's top gourmet destinations. The Lanzerac Deli tucked amidst vineyards and giant oaks, offers fresh, artisan produce. The Manor Kitchen offers an opulent buffet breakfast and classic dinner dishes with contemporrary twists. Taphuis Bar offers a gourmet pub-style menu and has welcomed thirsty travelers since the 1960s. Craven Lounge offers a tapas menu with an extensive selection of the finest spirits, a curated wine list, and a wide range of craft beers.
4. 4. Spa and wellness: The estate has a new luxury spa that offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs. The spa has four manicure and pedicure stations, a private relaxation lounge, a sauna, steam room, experience shower, mist room, and a fully equipped fitness room. The Spa's Vitality Corner has wholesome dishes, raw juises & smoothies on offer.
5. 5. Accommodation: Lanzerac Estate has a range of accommodation options, including 53 luxury hotel suites, manor house and 5-star conferencing facilities. 

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8. Rust en Vrede (1694)

Located in Stellenbosch, it is one of South Africa's oldest wine estates and has a reputation for producing some of the country's best red wines.

Rust en Vrede is a renowned wine estate located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Here are some of the highlights of Rust en Vrede:

1. 1. Wine tasting: Rust en Vrede is best known for producing premium red wines, including its flagship wine, Rust en Vrede Estate, named Platter's Red Blend of the Year (2022). The Tasting Room is found in the Rust en Vrede Cellar which can also be toured.
2. 2. Dining: The Rust en Vrede Restaurant offers a fine dining experience of a set six course menu with wine pairing & is housed in the Estate's original cellar. The restaurant has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Top 10 Restaurant award from Eat Out and was included in the San Pallegrino Top 100 Restaurants of the World.
3. 3. Historic architecture: Rust en Vrede's buildings date back to the 18th century and feature beautiful Cape Dutch architecture. The estate's buildings have been meticulously restored and offer a glimpse into South Africa's colonial past.
4. 4. Vineyards: Rust en Vrede has some of the oldest vineyards in the Stellenbosch region, with some vines dating back to the 1970s. The estate's vineyards are planted with a variety of grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot. In 2014, Travel & Leisure recommended Rust en Vrede as the #1 vineyard in Cape Town.

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9. Spier (1692)

Spier Wine Farm is a historic wine estate located in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. Here are some of the highlights of Spier Wine Farm:

1. 1. Wine tasting: Spier Wine Farm is known for producing a range of award-winning wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Shiraz. Visitors can taste these wines in the estate's tasting room, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards.
2. 2. Art and culture: Spier Wine Farm has a strong focus on art and culture, with a range of art installations and galleries located throughout the estate. The estate also hosts a range of cultural events, including music concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
3. 3. Dining experiences: Spier Wine Farm offers a range of dining experiences, including picnics, a farm café, the manor house, Vadas smokehouse & bakery, as well as a hotel restaurant. The estate's restaurants use locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that showcase the flavors of the region.
4. 4. Activities: Spier Wine Farm is a popular destination for families, with a range of activities the whole family. Visit the food garden, blend wine, hop on a Segway adventure, browse the shop & craft market, enjoy a spa day, mountain bike across the farm,  let the children explore the elemental play garden and encounter Birds of Prey at the Estate's Eagle Encounters raptor rehabilitation project.
5. 5. Accommodation: Spier Wine Farm has luxury hotel with conferencing facilities. Every direct booking comes with a complimentary glass of wine upon arrival, a bottle of Spier wine & a wine tasting voucher!

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10. Tokara (1994)

Tokara is a family-owned wine farm located in Stellenbosch & named after the founder's children. The estate focuses on two of the greatest grape varieties; Cabernet Sauvignon & Sauvignon Blanc.

Here are some of the highlights of Tokara Wine Farm:

1. 1. Award-winning wines: Tokara is known for producing some of the best wines in South Africa. The estate has won numerous awards for its wines, including the Michelangelo International Wine Awards, Decanter World Wine Awards, and Platter's Wine Guide.
2. 2. Tastings: Tokara offers  wine and olive oil tastings. Alongside wine, the estate produces high-quality extra virgin olive oil, which has won several awards, including the ABSA Top 5 Olive Oils Award.
3. 3. Art collection: The estate has a large collection of contemporary South African art, which is displayed throughout the property. Visitors can take a guided tour of the collection, which includes works by artists such as William Kentridge, Marlene Dumas, and Sam Nhlengethwa.
4. 4. Dining: The Tokara Restaurant offers a fine dining experience, with a menu that features organic, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has been recognized by the Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards as one of the Top 10 Restaurants in South Africa, alongside other awards. Lunch is an A la carte menu whilst dinner is a four or six course chef's menu.
5. 5. Deli and shop: The Tokara Delicatessen offers a selection of artisanal breads, pastries, and other treats. The deli also has a shop where visitors can purchase Tokara wines, olive oil, and other products.
6. 6. Art: Tokara has an art gallery, and sculptures that adorn the walkways and gardens from the Winery to the Delicatessen. 

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11. Vergelegen (1700)

Vergelegen Wine Estate is a world-renowned winery located in Somerset West. It produces award-winning wines and has a 18 unique gardens to explore.

Here are some of the highlights of this beautiful estate:

1. 1. Rich history: Vergelegen Wine Estate has a rich history that dates back over 300 years. It was founded in 1700 and has been owned by some of the most influential figures in South African history, including Willem Adriaan van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape Colony.
2. 2. Beautiful gardens: The estate is known for its magnificent gardens, which are among the best in the world. The gardens were designed by landscape architect, Harry Hart, and feature a variety of plant species, including camphor trees that are over 300 years old.
3. 3. Award-winning wines: Vergelegen is renowned for its award-winning wines, which have received numerous accolades both locally and internationally. The estate produces a range of wines, including red, white, and rosé varietals.
4. 4. Dining: The estate has three main dining experiences. Cafe Fleur at Vergelegen is a classic French style pop-up dining experience. Stables at Vergelegen is a more relaxed, bistro style dining experience. Picnics can be booked under the Camphor Forest.
5. 5. Cultural heritage: The estate is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Cape Dutch Homestead, which is a national monument. The estate also has a museum that showcases the history of the property and the people who have lived and worked there over the centuries.

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12. Waterford Estate

Located in the heart of the Stellenbosch wine region, Waterford Estate is known for its award-winning wines and beautiful views. The tasting room here is a must-visit for any wine lover.

Here are some of the highlights of Waterford Estate Wine Farm:

1. 1. Wine tasting: Waterford is known for producing some of the best wines in South Africa, including their flagship blend, The Jem. Visitors can taste a range of Waterford wines in the tasting room, which offers stunning views of the vineyards and mountains.
2. 3. Wine Drive Safari: A unique three-hour safari type trip through the 120-hectare estate in which you will receive expert guidance and teachings on the area. You will be able to taste the Estate's award-winning wines amongst the vineyards of their origin and the tour will end off with their Wine & Chocolate pairing, as well as a tasting of the Estate's flagship, award-winning red blend, The Jem.
3. 4. Porcupine Trail Wine Walk: Waterford has three different hiking routes at different levels of intensity. The walk will feature a light lunch accompanied by a selection of three wines, and will end off with their signature Wine & Chocolate Pairing.
4. 5. Art collection: Waterford has a collection of contemporary African art, which is displayed throughout the estate. Visitors can take a guided tour of the collection, which includes works by artists such as Dylan Lewis and Deborah Bell.
5. 6. Restaurant: Waterford has a restaurant called SALT, which offers a farm-to-table dining experience which focuses on incorporating different types of salts and salting techniques from around the globe, all paired with Estate wines.

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These are just a few of the many excellent wine farms in South Africa. No matter where you go in the country, you're sure to find delicious wines and stunning scenery.

Be sure to take your Bag of Plenty for picnics, your Busy Bag & Jet-Set Bags for stay overs, and your Illusion Bag for adventures!

Lily Rose xx