Top 10 Off the Beaten Track Wineries in Stellenbosch

Travelling abroad and taking in the very best of what South Africa has to offer has to include a trip to Stellenbosch. Nestled between the Cape Dutch buildings, this small university town is surrounded by the iconic Cape Winelands. Along with the historic oak trees, winding back roads, and art galleries there are several Stellenbosch wineries that can really give you a taste of what South Africa has to offer.

The Cape Winelands are known for their vast vineyards and incredible range of wineries. Because Stellenbosch wineries are more of an expansive experience, there’s so much more to offer the average traveller than wine. If you are travelling to South Africa and want to see the 10 best Stellenbosch wineries to visit, this countdown can help you uncover the best that this region has to offer.

1. De Meye

Belonging to the Myburgh family for five generations, this is a winery that must be experienced first hand in order to be truly appreciated. Located down a dirt road along the famous Stellenbosch Wine Route, De Meye is one of the most prestigious boutique wineries in South Africa. You won’t find much fuss, nor glitter – they believe that elegance lies in simplicity and beauty in realness.

2. DeMorgenzon

For a truly unique experience in Stellenbosch, there are fewer places that can offer more than DeMorgenzon. Combining small winery elements with a private and personal tasting area, hear the faint sounds of Baroque music in the background playing through the vineyards 24/7.  Just like Beethoven believed that music has the power to change the world, DeMorgenozn believes that music has the power to positively influence the ripening process of the fruit on the vines.

3. De Trafford

Located along the historic Mont Fleur farm, the De Trafford winery is nestled atop the dramatic valley above Stellenbosch. With a limited production scale and the finest attention to detail, there aren’t many wineries that can offer a better taste of South Africa.

4. Jordan Wine Estate

This iconic winery dates back to the early 1700s and has a large range of classic wine varieties to choose from. During a visit to the winery learn about the influence the terrain has on their wines, interact with their passionate and knowledgable staff, indulge in delicious food and take in views that will make you want to pack your bags and move to the winelands.

5. Keermont Vineyards

Nestled between the Helderberg and Stellenbosch mountain ranges, this winery has a selection that’s unmatched elsewhere. With a firm belief in the natural process of winemaking, Keermont Vineyards offers an experience combining the natural surroundings with their incredible wines.

6. Kleinood

Steeped in tradition and part of the Stellenbosch lore, Kleinood wines are as much a part of the valley as is their farm. ‘Kleinood’ is an Afrikaans word from Dutch and German origin meaning something small and precious. A true definition of the estate – a small farm, very dear to the owner’s hearts, specialising in the production of only a Syrah based red wine, a single vineyard Syrah and small production of Viognier and Syrah Rosé as well as de Boerin extra virgin olive oil.

7. Oldenburg Vineyards

Tucked away in the mountain range of Stellenbosch, Oldenburg winery is run by an independent family who pride themselves in making the finest wines in the valley. The handcrafted small quantities of both red and white wines are made from grapes grown on the stunning estate. Located in the range of mountains known as Banghoek, the changes in elevation give Oldenburg an advantage when it comes to creating complex wines that beautifully reflect their terroir.

8. Reyneke Winery

As one of the first biodynamic Stellenbosch wineries in South Africa, Reyneke offers an incredible range of wines to enjoy. Back when the Reyneke farm first began as ‘Uitzicht’ in 1863, there were no chemicals or technological advancements – just the land and nature. Uitzicht (which is the Dutch word for ‘View’) is perched overlooking Stellenbosch and False Bay with North, East and South facing slopes. The best land is planted with vines and the remainder compliments the vineyards with green pastures and pockets of wilderness.

9. Stark-Condé

Located in the Jonkershoek Valley in Stellenbosch, this winery makes full use of the valley with grades and elevations that go from 150 to 600 metres. Their award-winning wines are handcrafted in small volumes using traditional methods: hand sorting, open-top fermentations, punchdowns and manual basket pressing. This wide range allows for the most interesting tastes and blends that Stellenbosch wineries can offer. The winery also has a beautiful cafe perfect for a lunch in the Winelands.

10. Uva Mira Mountain Vineyard

Uva Mira translated means “The Wonderful Grape”, and rightfully so.  One of the Stellenbosch wineries that you just have to visit during your travels, expect to leave with wonderful memories. Full of charm and rich in heritage this winery can offer more than just amazing wine, it’s an experience in and of itself. Not to mention some of the most incredible views in Stellenbosch.