Take in the graceful architecture and rolling vineyards
nestling amid the soaring mountains of Stellenbosch, Paarl,
Franschhoek and Wellington.
What to see and do
Wine tasting
Wine estates preserve traditions from the 17th century
and offer wine tasting and cellar tours. Each estate is
as unique as the taste of their wines. Most offer tastings
from as little as R10 and refund this if you buy a bottle.
Some estates also offer cheese and chocolate tastings or
have restaurant and picnic facilities. Elect a designated
driver or take a tour.
Hiking in the vineyards
The Vineyard Hiking Trail winds through forest plantations,
vineyards and olive groves. A 10km hike on Delvera farm
ends with sweeping views of False Bay, Table Mountain and
the Winelands.
Where to stay
Stellenbosch
This historic town with its oak shaded streets is a cultural
haven. It's galleries and museums house important art collections.
Luckily, Stellenbosch is saved from stuffiness by the university
and it's boisterous students who inject some youthful zest.
There are cheap student pubs, restaurants and busy pavement
cafe's.
 A
basic guide to wine tasting
Experts will tell you that wine tasting is not the same
as wine drinking? If you follow this simple guide, you may
not become an expert, but at least you’ll look like
one.
Colour: Take a good look at the colour
of your wine. Think beyond simple red and white. Opacity:
Tilt your glass and give it a gentle swirl. Look
at your wine again. Is it clear or cloudy? Describe the
colour and clarity. Smell: Give it another
swirl and take a quick whiff. Stick your nose into the glass
and smell again. Can you smell the oak, berries, flowers,
tar, vanilla or citrus? First taste: Take
a small sip and roll it around your tongue. Swirling:
Let some air in your mouth and allow it to mingle
with your wine. Taste: Reds often have
berry or woody flavours while whites taste of flowers or
citrus. Finish
Spit or swallow? How long does the flavour last? |
