Hemel-en-Aarde 

Just outside Hermanus in the Overberg region, the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is a haven for cool-climate wines, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay being the standout cultivars. This valley is home to some of the most innovative and respected wineries in South Africa. Top of the list of these is Tesselaarsdal, a relatively new player in the wine arena. Founded in 2015 by Berene Sauls, a former employee of Hamilton Russell Vineyards, Tesselaarsdal is more than just a winery; it's a tribute to Sauls' heritage and the historic farming hamlet the vineyard was named after, located not far from the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. 

In 1810 former Dutch East Indiaman Johannes Tesselaar bequeathed his farm to his freed slaves and servants. Sauls named her wine to honour this legacy. With the support of Hamilton Russell Vineyards, Tesselaarsdal focuses on producing top-quality Pinot Noir, with plans to eventually cultivate its own vineyards in the Overberg region. This small-scale operation is a testament to the potential of the Hemel-en-Aarde area to foster not only great wines but also stories of resilience and legacy.

Just a short distance away is Mount Babylon, a winery that has made its mark as one of the pioneers in the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Established by Johan and Yolanda Holtzhausen in 2001, Mount Babylon was the first to embrace the challenges of planting vines in this high-altitude area. 

The Holtzhausen family’s passion for winemaking shines through in their exquisite range of wines, including Pinot Noir, Viognier, and Sauvignon Blanc. They have also partnered with neighbouring estate Creation to produce a range of Cap Classique wines, marketed under the brand Elation. Visitors to Mount Babylon can enjoy a personal, family-oriented wine tasting experience, complete with stunning views of the surrounding dam and mountains.

Speaking of Creation, this estate is a shining example of innovation in the South African wine industry. Situated high on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, Creation has earned an impressive array of awards for its wines, which are meticulously crafted by cellarmaster Jean-Claude Martin. The estate’s single-vineyard wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rhone varietals like Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, and Roussanne, are celebrated for their expression of the unique terroir. Creation offers a comprehensive wine and food pairing experience, making it a sought-after destination for wine enthusiasts.

Robertson Wine Route

Stretching through the charming towns of Ashton, Bonnievale, McGregor, and Robertson, the Robertson Wine Route is known as the Valley of Wine and Roses. This region offers a rich tapestry of wine experiences, from large-scale operations to boutique wineries, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Langeberg Mountains.

Ashton Winery is a cornerstone of the Robertson Wine Route, producing a wide range of wines that reflect the valley’s unique climate and diverse soil types. Situated between the Breede River and the Langeberg foothills, Ashton Winery benefits from a combination of organic farming practices and generations of viticultural expertise. Their wines are crafted to suit any palate, making them a popular choice for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

No visit to the Robertson Wine Route would be complete without a stop at Graham Beck, one of South Africa’s most prestigious sparkling wine producers. Founded in 1991, Graham Beck has made a name for itself with its Cap Classique wines, which have been enjoyed at momentous occasions by the likes of Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama. The winery’s commitment to minimal intervention and its focus on sustainability result in wines that are both authentic and elegant. Graham Beck’s Cap Classique wines are widely regarded as benchmarks in the industry, offering a combination of finesse, complexity, and versatility that is hard to match.

Further along the route, Jan Harmsgat offers a unique blend of history and luxury. This historic farm, dating back to 1723, is located at the southern tip of the Robertson Wine Valley, bordering both the dry climate of the Little Karoo and the Mediterranean influence of the coastal regions. Renowned for its single-block wines, which are produced from vineyards no larger than six hectares per cultivar, the estate also features 5-star country accommodation, where guests can immerse themselves in the farm’s rich history while enjoying modern amenities. With its mix of vineyards, pomegranate orchards, and pecan groves, Jan Harmsgat is a destination that offers both a taste of the past and a glimpse into the future of sustainable farming.

Swartland Wine & Olive Route

Less than an hour from Cape Town, the Swartland region is a land of contrasts, where rugged terrain meets a spirit of independence and innovation. The Swartland Wine & Olive Route is known for its unpretentious charm, offering visitors a chance to explore a region that is as rich in character as it is in flavour.

Swartland Winery, located near Malmesbury, is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in the region. Established in 1948, the winery has evolved from a co-operative to a private wine company, producing approximately 2-million bottles of wine each year. Swartland Winery is particularly known for its premium single-varietal wines, which are crafted from bush vines grown in the diverse microclimates of the region. These wines are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and ability to reflect the unique terroir of the Swartland.

In the heart of the Swartland lies Dragonridge, a winery that epitomises the region’s commitment to sustainability and organic farming. Situated on Fynbos Estate, Dragonridge produces small-batch wines from unirrigated vineyards, as well as a range of organic olive products. The estate’s philosophy is to create wines that express the unique conditions of the farm, using traditional methods from the early 1900s. Visitors can participate in the winemaking process during harvest season, enjoy hearty country meals, and stay overnight in the estate’s comfortable accommodation. Dragonridge’s wines are 100% vegan and organic, offering a true taste of the Swartland’s untamed spirit.

Tucked beneath the dramatic peak of Kasteelberg, Pulpit Rock winery is a family-owned operation that combines tradition with modern winemaking techniques. The Brink family, who have farmed the area for over five decades, established the winery in 2003 and have since produced wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Swartland. Pulpit Rock’s state-of-the-art cellar and meticulous approach to grape selection result in wines of outstanding quality. Visitors can enjoy personalised tours of the winery, along with breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. The estate also offers a hiking trail that leads to the top of Kasteelberg, providing a panoramic view of the Swartland.

Text: Sharon Gilbert-Rivett