When people think of the Cape Winelands, few realise that the wine route actually  starts right on the slopes of Table Mountain. We have made a shortlist, in no particular order, of the top 5 vineyards within 30 minutes of the city centre!

1. Buitenverwachting

Buitenverwachting (meaning "Beyond Expectation") is situated on the east-facing slopes of the magnificent Constantiaberg. Originally part of the Constantia Estate, it is imbued with a sense of history and has been lovingly restored to its former glory by the Mueller family.

The farm boasts an exceptional range of wines, created from the 90 000 vines first planted in 1825. Since then, extensive planting of the most selected of cultivars has been initiated, resulting in award-winning wines recognised worldwide

So, visit Buitenverwachting with its historic cellar, unique wines and top class restaurant - offering innovative cuisine, for an experience that is truly beyond expectation.

The estate is open Monday - Friday 09:00 - 17:00 and Saturday 09:00 - 13:00.
phone: +27 21 794 5190
website: http://www.buitenverwachting.co.za/
email: info@buitenverwachting.co.za

2. Groot Constantia

In 1685 the newly appointed Governer-General to the Cape of Good Hope, Simon van der Stel, chose 891 morgen situated in a natural garden behind Table Mountain, behind him the hillocks of Constantiaberg, in front an endless view to Paarl and Stellenbosch, and to the right, the beautiful False Bay unfolding further and further into the horizon.

It is surmised that the word “Constantia” was taken from the Latin word “constancy” which means “steadfastness”, attributes which Simon van der Stel held in high esteem.

Driving up the stately oak lined avenue, surrounded by the well-groomed vineyards, one reaches the majestic Manor House. The buildings on the farm are unequalled examples of the Cape Dutch architecture, both in majesty and simplicity.

Mother Nature provided the influence of the sun, wind, oceans and fertile soil, and then challenged the winemakers to plant vineyards and make excellent wines. For more than three centuries, the winemakers at Groot Constantia produced one of the world's most famous wines which was coveted across the globe and those who were fortunate enough to taste it soon refused to settle for anything less.

So little was produced and it was of such uncompromising quality that it was exclusively bought and consumed by the aristocracy of the world. In fact, some history books actually use the word "hoarded"! Members of the British Royal House, Napoleon Bonaparte, King Louis Philippe of France, Frederick (The Great) of Prussia, the Lords Seventeen of the VOC, governors, admirals, captains and many other dignitaries coveted the Constantia label and treated their guests to it.

To stay with the latest developments, exciting new vineyards are being established, producing world-class wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot and Pinotage as the main varietals. The flagship of the estate is named after Simon van der Stel, namely, Gouverneurs Reserve.

The estate and wineshop is open 7 days per week from 10h00 to 17h00.
phone: 27 (0) 21 794 5128
email: enquiries@grootconstantia.co.za
website: http://www.grootconstantia.co.za/

3. Klein Constantia

Klein (small) Constantia is often referred to as "one of the world's most beautiful vineyard locations." Graced by a Cape Dutch homestead, it is the only wine cellar in Southern Africa to have won a merit award from the South African Institute of Architects.

The grapes from Klein Constantia vineyards were used in the world-famous Constantia wijn, sought-after by the 18th and 19th century aristocracy, requested by Napoleon, and praised in the novels of Dickens and Jane Austen. Vin de Constance is a recreation of this wine and is a South African icon. It ranks among the world's great wines and is reputedly Nelson Mandela's favourite wine.

Klein Constantia is open on weekdays from 09:00 - 17:00 and on Saturday from 09:00 -13:00.
phone: +27 21 794 5188
email: info@kleinconstantia.com
website: http://www.kleinconstantia.com/

4. Steenberg

Set in the heart of the Constantia valley, Steenberg (Mountain of Stone) is the oldest farm in the area. Originally called Swaaneweide (the feeding place of swans), Steenberg is home to a large population of spur-winged geese.

This glorious vineyard boasts 70 ha under vines - 60% white (mostly Sauvignon Blanc, followed by Chardonnay, Semillon and Muscat de Frontignan) and the rest a mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. The farm is one of only a handful in the Cape to have invested in the Italian variety Nebbiolo.

For a taste sensation, try the Sauvignon Blanc - the estate's flagship wine and a star achiever.
Steenberg Estate is renowned for its championship golfing estate and luxury 5-star hotel.

Steenberg Vineyards is open for wine tasting and sales on Monday - Friday 09:00 - 16:30 and on Saturday 09:00 - 13:30. Cellar tours take place at 10:00 and 15:00, Monday to Friday.
phone: +27 21 713 2211
email: info@steenbrg.co.za 
website: http://www.steenberg-vineyards.co.za/

5. Constantia Uitsig

A boutique wine farm, set in the shadow of Cape Town's Table Mountain, Uitsig boasts 32 ha under vines planted with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It is the smallest producer in the Constantia Valley and has been producing premium quality wines since 1652.

With its breathtaking scenery, this wine estate is well worth a visit. After tasting the outstanding wines, consider a meal at one of the three top class restaurants. The estate also boasts a luxury hotel, encircled by age- old vineyards, which is renowned for its quiet elegance and gracious hospitality.

The estate and wine shop is open Monday - Friday 09:00 - 17:00 and Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 10:00 - 16:00.
phone: +27 21 794 6500
website: http://www.uitsig.co.za/
email: reservations@uitsig.co.za