As the chill of winter sweeps across the Western Cape, JENNA BERNDT writes that warm-hearted Stellenbosch beckons with a promise to turn up the heat, sizzling with new tasting rooms, pairings, restaurants and unbeatable offers to give you every reason to linger longer.
Banish any seasonal chills and boredom, and embrace the art of wintering in Stellenbosch. Stay and play in this charming Cape Winelands town and learn how to ‘do’ this winter in all her fiery glory. Perhaps you’ll even discover (as I have) that it is the most magical season yet.
With a host of new establishments and food and wine activities, this picturesque region delivers an invigorating winter escape infused with the warmest welcomes.
What’s new and cooking in Stellenbosch
Open flames and hot eateries
Embark on a gastronomic journey through Stellenbosch’s acclaimed dining establishments, where the cooler months unveil a symphony of flavours, with exceptional value on the side.
A seven-course dining experience at the Manor Kitchen at Lanzerac presents meticulously crafted dishes expertly paired with award-winning wines from the estate is Jonkershoek, Keldermeester Versameling and Heritage ranges.
Think braais are only for summer? Discover the open-fire cooking trend still sweeping Stellenbosch at one of the new culinary kids on the block, VUUR Restaurant on the Remhoogte Wine Estate. VUUR has been included in the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants Coup de Coeur List (Favourites List) and it’s no wonder. Offering only one lunch table per day and serving a maximum of 10-12 people inside a converted stable or underneath an old oak tree, this is relaxed, intimate show cooking at its best.
De Blaauwe Kitchen restaurant is another new laid-back addition that offers classic dishes inspired by the Winelands and the alfresco Mediterranean way of life – perfect for family outings.
Warm up with quirky vinous delights
Stellenbosch wineries unveil their own seasonal delights, from cosy tasting rooms to picturesque winter picnics.
Get in your 10,000 steps early, enjoying a morning wine tour and walk a that visits three special estates. Your starting point is the historic Blaauwklippen estate, where you’ll walk the 8.5km Blouklip Trail, which winds through winelands and natural habitats at the foot of Stellenbosch Mountain. Traversing through the vineyards and fynbos, youíll arrive at Dornier’s art-inspired tasting area for wines and their famous bagels. A short walk then leads to Stellenzicht Wine Pod to indulge the sweet tooth with a luxurious wine and chocolate pairing. A fun tractor and wagon ride then whisks you back to your starting point at Blaauwklippen.
Just 8km down the road, you’ll arrive at the Ernie Els Winery tasting room, where a new canapè pairing showcases their iconic wines. Alto is also introducing a winter canapè and wine pairing, offering a sensory journey through four red wines, paired with exquisitely crafted canapès.
Don’t miss the cosy new tasting rooms at Deux Frëres Wines (described as chic with ëboereí-French flair) and the family-friendly Kaapzicht.
Make a date with Cavalli Estate for their First Fridays Wine & Dine live music event, as well as the cosy Underground Tasting Room. Embark on another wine pairing with a difference at Cavalli. This isn’t your average oyster experience, featuring quirky combinations like pineapple and mebos alongside grilled oysters with beef fat Salticrax crumb.
Another unusual feast for the tastebuds awaits with the Indigenous Food and Wine Tasting at Vergenoegd Löw. Available daily at 11h30 at the historic Manor House, expect to sample traditional dishes like biltong, bokkom, sour fig, spekboom, and umasi with a selection of exquisite white, red, and Mèthode Cap Classique wines. This intimate experience is a must-do for culinary adventurers.
Linger longer to stay and play
With so many new openings and specials, you’re going to want to linger longer. With the Stellenbosch Stay and Play Winter campaign, you can do just that. Make the most of seasonal specials such as half-price fine dining and remarkable accommodation offers. Whether you seek a romantic escape or a culinary adventure, Stellenbosch is the place to Stay and Play this winter.
