Steenberg
For all its grandeur Steenberg is still one of the most reasonable places to taste wine, and the sheer expanse of their selection means there is something for every palate and pocket. The design of the tasting room is modern and luxurious but still makes one feel comfortable and relaxed. The estate offers two dining options; the Bistro Sixteen 82 is one of my favourite Sunday breakfast spots and Catharina’s is perfect for lazy lunches. Favourite sippers: The Steenberg Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc for quaffing and the Nebbiolo for savouring.
OF NOTE
When Monday – Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm
Where Steenberg Road, Tokai
Contact +27 21 713 2222, [email protected]
Groot Constantia
The great dame, the original, you cannot ignore Groot Constantia, a living breathing national monument. She offers not only a great history lesson but superb wines. The estate is set up to handle throngs of tourists and you will have to compete with them in the summer months but the best option is to spend a few hours here and soak up everything she has to offer at a relaxed pace. If museums are your thing you’re in for a treat; if cellar tours appeal to you then they offer a great tour followed by an informative guided wine tasting; if picnics, lazy lunches and superb wine are what you want then look no further. Favourite sippers: The Constantia Rood for quaffing and the Governors Reserve red for savouring.
OF NOTE
When Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 5:30 pm, Sunday 9 am – 4:30 pm
Where Groot Constantia Road, Constantia
Contact +27 21 794 5128
Beau Constantia
The views from the tasting room will literally knock your socks off, so too will the contemporary design of the tasting room and trendy wine and sushi bar offering. I used to work at this estate and back then it was a hidden gem known only to Constantia locals. Nowadays Beau Constantia is very much on everyone’s radar and the place to be seen. I love the Pas de nom label dedicated to the late Japie Bron, this is a great tribute to their former viticulturist and farm manager but also a very clever bit of marketing – wine consumers love anecdotes and the story of Oom Japie is always a hit. Favourite sippers: The Pas de nom red for quaffing and the Cecily Viognier for savouring.
OF NOTE
When Tuesday – Sunday, 11 am – 8 pm
Where Constantia Main Road, Constantia
Contact +27 21 794 8632, [email protected]
Eagles Nest
The tasting garden in Eagles Nest is surrounded by forest and literally does give one the sensation of sitting inside a giant birds nest. This is a very relaxed tasting which can be accompanied by delicious cheese and meat platters. Good wine and friendly service won’t disappoint. Favourite sippers: The rosé for quaffing and the Viognier for savouring.
OF NOTE
When Monday – Sunday, 10 am – 4:30 pm
Where Old Constantia Main Road, Constantia,
Contact +27 21 794 4095, [email protected]
High Constantia
High Constantia is a small cellar is situated just before the entrance to Groot Constantia and is often completely overlooked. This, of course, is partly why I like it so much, I love having the place to myself and getting private attentive service. Book ahead for a cellar tour which will include barrel tastings and they won’t even mind if you bring your own picnic basket along to enjoy in the back garden. Favourite sippers: Look out for any unlabelled wine specials for quaffing and the Methode Cap Classique for savouring.
OF NOTE
When Monday – Saturday, 8 am – 5 pm
Where Groot Constantia Road, Constantia
Contact +27 21 794 7171, [email protected]
To find out more on the latest and greatest wine farms check out Kim’s blog: www.boutiquewinerytours.com
Photography courtesy Kim Rabe and Beau Constantia
