Just 45 minutes from Cape Town, tucked beyond the Paarl mountains, a historic wine farm has stepped into an exciting new era. Dekkersvlei Vineyards, formerly known as Mellasat, has been reimagined as a fresh, immersive Cape Winelands destination, blending centuries of heritage with innovative wine and brandy experiences.
Dating back to 1693, Dekkersvlei is rooted in history, but its focus is firmly on the present. The estate’s new identity centres on storytelling, discovery and hands-on experiences that go far beyond a standard wine tasting.
Home of the world’s first white pinotage
Dekkersvlei holds a rare distinction: it is the home of the world’s first white pinotage.
First crafted and released in 2007, this pioneering wine reimagined South Africa’s signature grape, earning global attention for its originality and finesse. As pinotage celebrates its centenary in 2025, the estate is inviting visitors to experience the innovation that helped redefine the varietal.
It’s a claim few wine farms can make – and one that sets Dekkersvlei apart in the Cape Winelands.
Five pinotage expressions, one iconic grape
The estate’s flagship offering is the Unique Five Pinotage Tasting, designed to showcase the remarkable versatility of pinotage.
Guests sample five distinct styles:
- White Pinotage
- Pinotage Méthode Cap Classique
- Pinotage Rosé
- Classic Red Pinotage
- Coffee Pinotage
Taken together, the tasting reveals how one grape can evolve into dramatically different expressions — a must for anyone curious about South African wine.
Walk the vineyards, taste the process
Unlike many estates, Dekkersvlei is a working wine farm, and visitors are encouraged to experience it from the ground up.
The Taste the Original Tour is a guided 45-minute walk through vineyards planted with chenin blanc, cabernet sauvignon, old bush vines and pinotage. The tour includes a visit to the boutique cellar and maturation room, where guests taste wine at various stages, from juice to ferment to finished vintage.
The experience ends with a tasting of three wines, including the world-first white pinotage.
Brandy with depth and craft
Wine may take centre stage, but Dekkersvlei’s traditional Cape potstill brandy is equally compelling.
Produced in small batches and matured in oak, the brandy reflects meticulous craftsmanship. The Bespoke Brandy Experience takes guests into the distillery and underground cellar for tastings across different ages and styles — a standout experience for brandy lovers.
A relaxed, family-friendly winelands stop
Beyond tastings, Dekkersvlei offers a laid-back destination atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a deli serving coffee, pastries, charcuterie boards, wood-fired pizzas and indulgent milkshakes, alongside shaded outdoor seating and vineyard views. There’s also a function space for weddings and private events, plus kid-friendly options.
Easy to reach, worth the trip
Dekkersvlei Vineyards is located just outside Paarl, three minutes off the N1 and 45 minutes from Cape Town, offering wine tastings, vineyard tours, brandy experiences, a deli and event space, making it an easy, rewarding Cape Winelands escape.
For wine lovers, families, and curious travellers, Dekkersvlei Vineyards is quickly becoming one of the Cape Winelands’ must-visit experiences.
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Picture: Supplied.
