A warm welcome awaits you at the Stellenbosch Wine Festival

From oysters, whales, jazz, and daisies to cheese, olives, food, and wine, it feels like there’s a festival for everything nowadays. With so many stands and people, attending can sometimes become overwhelming. However, there are still a few festivals that offer an authentic experience.

Guess what? Get ready to mark your calendars because the 10th annual Stellenbosch Wine Festival is coming up! The festival will take place from July 28th to July 31st at the Paul Roos Centre. But before that, we have Wine Week, which starts on July 22nd and goes all the way until July 31st. During Wine Week, you’ll have the chance to experience some incredible cellar door adventures at participating estates. It’s going to be an unforgettable celebration this year because we’re not just celebrating any regular anniversary. We’re commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Stellenbosch American Express ® Wine Routes. And what makes this celebration so special, you ask?

When you think of wine, what comes to mind? Is it a grand, elegant drink that beckons for good company and delicious food? I believe that even the most remarkable wines need their two best friends by their side – great food and even better company. And that’s exactly what you can expect at this event.

This festival is not about big crowds or expensive expo stands. No, it’s about something much more genuine. It’s about having a wonderful time, engaging in conversations with your favorite winemakers, and enjoying up to 500 different wines (carefully selected, of course). And let’s not forget about the mouthwatering winter dishes that are prepared to perfectly complement the wines.

What makes this event truly special is that you have the chance to indulge in wines from iconic estates like Delheim, Simonsig, Kanonkop, Neethlingshof, Le Riche, De Trafford, and Warwick Estate. Whether you choose to sample them all under one roof or visit each estate individually, the choice is yours.

When it comes to looking forward, I had a chance to chat with Annareth Bolton, CEO of the Stellenbosch American Express Wine Routes, about what makes Stellenbosch so special and what you can expect at this year’s festival:

The Stellenbosch American Express Wine Routes have 150 farms, offering something for everyone. Can you tell me about some of the most memorable highlights?

‘As the pioneers of wine tourism and the heart of the Cape Winelands, we have a lot to offer. Our Cape Dutch architecture is a big attraction, while the modern tasting rooms and restaurants have drawn in countless visitors. Even if you only have a day in Stellenbosch, you can do so much. You can taste wine with a rugby legend, go on a thrilling game drive, have lunch at a top 10 restaurant, try your hand at fly-fishing, explore a wine museum, and connect with the locals.’

The Wine Route has blossomed and transformed in the 40 years since its creation – but what are some of the most thrilling changes since its early days?

‘Back in 1971, the wine route was born, but visiting wine farms didn’t involve tasting or purchasing. There were no road signs, maps, or even places to grab a bite or spend the night on the farms. This truly marked the beginning of wine tourism in South Africa, inspiring many others to follow suit. Nowadays, we welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors, which has led to a thriving industry that creates jobs, nurtures skills, and gains international acclaim. When I initiated the Sundays in Stellenbosch campaign five years ago, just a few farms and restaurants were open on Sundays. But today, we have over 65 farms welcoming guests with kids’ entertainment, informative wine tastings, picturesque hiking trails, delightful picnics, and world-class restaurants. The focus is also on social responsibility, with daycare centers for farm children, local employment, and a commitment to supporting local businesses. It’s truly a successful model for everyone involved.’

So, guess what? Stellenbosch was just named the ‘2011 Wine Town of the Year’ by Munskänkarna Wine Club in Sweden. Can you believe it? This is the first time a city outside of the European Union has received this incredible recognition. I’m curious, what sets Stellenbosch apart from all the other places competing for this title?

‘This is such an amazing honor and opportunity for us here in Stellenbosch. Did you know that South Africa is actually the biggest exporter of wine to Sweden, with a whopping 20.5% of the market share? It’s true! And not only are we killing it in the wine industry, but we’re also a world leader in wine tourism. Our members receive annual awards for their outstanding contributions to this booming sector.

But here’s the really cool part – people actually recognize Stellenbosch as a wine brand before they even think of South Africa. That’s how awesome our wines are! And now, we’re taking things to the next level by showcasing everything else that Stellenbosch has to offer. Sure, the wine is incredible, but there’s so much more to experience here.

We’ve worked incredibly hard to get to where we are today, and it’s paying off big time. Being recognized as one of the world’s top wine destinations is such a huge accomplishment, and we totally deserve it! So come on over and see what all the hype is about. We promise, you won’t be disappointed!’

Sustainability is starting to matter more and more to the wine industry and the people who buy the wine. So, how are the winemakers on the Stellenbosch Wine Route handling sustainability? And do you think it affects the taste of the wine?

Stellenbosch soil and properties are some of the most expensive in the world. It would be so much easier to just turn it all into housing and golf estates, but that’s not the kind of legacy we want to leave behind. I believe that farming in Stellenbosch is one of the toughest financial endeavors right now, but it’s also the most rewarding one. Someone once said that the people from Stellenbosch would be disappointed when they reach heaven! We have a huge responsibility, and we take it very seriously. Once again, we’re at the forefront of the industry in terms of carbon neutrality, solar energy, biodiversity, and the restoration of indigenous plants and trees. And let’s not forget about our precious wildlife! To be honest, living in this town is truly inspiring!

There are so many wine festivals happening these days! Let me tell you about some of the awesome experiences you can have at this festival. Trust me, it’s one you won’t want to miss!

The Stellenbosch Wine Festival is super special because it’s the oldest one in the country. And guess what? This year, it’s turning 10! The festival is held at the Paul Roos Centre, and it’s a fantastic chance to try out up to 500 different wines. That’s right, you can taste all these amazing wines in one place!

Now, here’s the really cool part. On the opening night, they have a wine connoisseurs evening. It’s the perfect opportunity for you to meet the winemakers themselves. You’ll get to chat with them in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. And if you find a wine you love, you can buy it right there at a special festival price!

But wait, there’s more! Friday is the social evening at the festival. There’s live entertainment, food demonstrations, and signature dishes from local restaurants. You can stroll down their gourmet lane and try all sorts of delicious treats. It’s a night of fun and indulgence!

Now, Saturday is the busiest day at the festival. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth going! In fact, it’s probably the best day to go if you want a lively atmosphere and lots of energy. You’ll be surrounded by people who are just as excited about wine as you are!

If you have little ones, Sunday is the day for you. The festival has created a safe and fun environment for kids, so you can enjoy yourself while they have a blast. And don’t worry about transportation – they have shuttles from all around, so everyone can get home safely.

But it doesn’t end there. The Stellenbosch Wine Festival has lots of other cool things to offer. They have historical walks through town, where you can learn about the area’s fascinating past. Plus, they have amazing accommodation specials, so you can make a weekend out of it. And let’s not forget about the restaurants – they’re ready to welcome you with warm winter dishes and cozy fires.

So, mark your calendar and get ready for an incredible experience at the Stellenbosch Wine Festival. It’s a festival like no other, and I guarantee you’ll have the time of your life!

What are the two things that make Stellenbosch special to you? For me, it’s the majestic mountains that embrace our town and the never-ending list of things to do. Here in Stellenbosch, there’s an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

One of the first things that captivate me is the beauty of the mountains that encircle our town. They create a breathtaking backdrop that paints the horizon with shades of greens and browns. Every morning, I wake up to this awe-inspiring view, and it fills me with wonder and gratitude. These mountains bring a sense of peace and tranquility, and they are a constant reminder of the abundant natural beauty that surrounds us.

But it’s not just the natural beauty that makes Stellenbosch special; it’s also the vibrant cultural scene. There is always something happening in our town, something that will pique your interest and stir your imagination. You can immerse yourself in the world of arts and culture by visiting one of our theaters, where captivating productions come to life. Or you can indulge your love for music and attend a live concert that will make your heart sing. There are art exhibitions that will open your eyes to new perspectives and mountain biking trails that will challenge and excite you.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Stellenbosch offers a world of wine tasting and gastronomic delights. Our town is famous for its vineyards and wineries, where you can discover the rich flavors of our local wines and indulge in delectable cuisine. And when you need a break from all the activities, you can simply relax and unwind in one of the corner cafés, sipping a cup of coffee while observing the vibrant energy of our town.

Stellenbosch is a place where inspiration and entertainment are never in short supply. It’s a town that caters to all interests and desires, ensuring that you will never be bored. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply a moment of tranquility, Stellenbosch has it all. So come and explore, discover, and be enchanted by all that this extraordinary town has to offer.