When you mention wine tasting in the Cape, many people will automatically think of regions such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. We often overlook The Constantia Wine Route, a fantastic wine region, which is on our doorstep. I thought I would share a few Need-To-Know Facts about this wonderful Wine Valley.
The Constantia Wine Route
The Constantia Wine Route is located a convenient 20 minutes from the heart of Cape Town. This beautiful wine region is also home to amazing examples of Cape Dutch architecture and is steeped in local history. Over the years, farms in the area have seamlessly incorporated a modern and contemporary approach to winemaking, as well as guest experiences.
Silvermist
“As you ascend the winding road on Silvermist estate, time seems to slow down. At each bend, as the city tilts away beneath you, you rise to new heights of quiet anticipation. There’s a reason you feel this way – you’re on top of a mountain and about to dine at the new incarnation of La Colombe, frequent contender on our Top 10 list and no stranger to S.Pellegrino’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants”~ Linda Scarborough (Eat Out)
The Constantia Wine Valley is not only renowned for great wine but offers some amazing culinary delights as well. Silvermist is home to La Colombe Restaurant, as well as a boutique hotel. A stay in one of their fantastic suites is the perfect end to a day of wining and dining.
Beau Constantia
Chef’s Warehouse at Beau Constantia recently earned a spot in the top 10 restaurants in South Africa. Placed no.4 at the 2017 Eat Out Awards, this modern restaurant, nestled in the Constantia Valley, continues to delight diners with beautifully crafted small plates. For more mouth-watering images, pop over to Claire Gunn’s website for A Day in The Life at Chef’s Warehouse Beau Constantia.
Constantia Glen
Apart from producing the Constantia Glen Five, one of my favourite red wines, the farm offers extended wine tasting hours. They are open from 10 am until 6 pm Sunday to Wednesday, and 10 am until 8 pm Thursday to Saturday. Their wine tasting options range from R45 to R90 per person, depending on the wine selection. If you purchase wine to the value of R350, one wine tasting fee will be waived. Constantia Glen has also added a variety of Flammkuchen and delicious summer salads to their tasting experiences, available in the tasting room. You can also enjoy one of their popular Cheese & Charcuterie Platters.
Eagles Nest
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Constantia Valley, while sipping on a glass or two of Eagles Nest Wine in their new wine area, located adjacent to the tasting room. The new tasting spot, situated within the confines of the farm’s forest, is the perfect place to enjoy delicious wine, the company of good friends, as well as the wonders of nature.
Groot Constantia
I think most people, both locals and tourists, have heard about Groot Constantia and their award-winning range of wine. With three wine-tasting venues to choose from, there is something for everyone’s taste. Although wine tasting is the obvious drawcard to Groot Constantia, I love nothing better than a relaxing stroll around the beautiful estate, which offers some of the most breathtaking views of the valley.
Klein Constantia
The recently opened Bistro @ Klein Constantia is situated alongside their newly renovated tasting room, under the Jacaranda trees. They have created a wine and food experience, focusing on fresh, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu embodies the ‘farm to table & head to toe’ concept. Complementing the country bistro-style menu, you can enjoy a selection of Klein Constantia wines and occasionally some fantastic older and rarer vintages from their wine library. Curated cheeseboards are served from mid-afternoon and can be paired with a selection of Vin de Constance vintages featured on the day. The Bistro is open for lunch from Tuesday to Sunday between 12.00pm and 2.30pm. The kitchen closes at 3.00pm. Cheeseboards, however, are available until closing at 4.00pm.
Buitenverwachting
Another Constantia farm I love visiting, for something in addition to great wine, is Buitenverwachting. I adore their coffee shop Coffee BloC because as you know, I love good coffee! Well, coffee aficionados will be excited to hear that the farm is now home to a new coffee tasting area, as well as their own roastery. Quaffee Roastery, at Buitenwerwachting, now offers a coffee tasting experience, where you can taste three coffee of distinct origins, and regions. You can pop over to the Quaffee Website to find out more and book a tasting.
Constantia Uitsig
Hailing from Noordhoek, Kristen’s Kick-Ass Ice Cream has become an institution in the area. Well, you will be pleased to hear that this super popular, small-batch artisanal ice cream, is now available at Uitsig’s newly launched Heritage Market, open daily from 9 am – 5 pm.
Steenberg
Steenberg not only produces some of the best MCC in the area but is also home to one of my favourite Spas. If you are looking for a romantic couples experience in the Valley {think Valentines Day}, this is your spot. I also love the Steenberg Hotel, the ultimate in Winelands Country Luxury.
Visit The Constantia Wine Route
I hope that I have wet your appetite and inspired you to explore the beautiful Constantia Wine Route. There are nine fabulous farms to choose from, each with their unique attractions and not to forget amazing, award-winning wine
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