Qbar by Quoin Rock: A Beautiful Wine Bar in a Stellenbosch Courtyard

Step into the serene courtyard of Quoin Rock Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, and you’ll find yourself captivated by the elegant charm of Qbar. This wine bar is a true gem, offering an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts.

When I first entered Qbar, I was immediately struck by its beauty and sophistication. The carefully curated decor creates an atmosphere that is both stylish and inviting. The comfortable seating, warm lighting, and tasteful artwork give the space a sense of luxury and relaxation.

But Qbar isn’t just about looks. The wine selection is truly impressive, featuring a wide range of local and international wines. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of wine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to offer recommendations and share their passion for wine.

One of the things that sets Qbar apart is its focus on sustainability. The wine bar is committed to using environmentally friendly practices, from the winemaking process to the serving of the wines. This dedication to sustainability not only ensures that the wines are of the highest quality but also helps preserve the beauty of the surrounding environment.

Qbar offers a variety of tasting options, allowing you to explore different wines and discover new favorites. From the classic wine flight to the more adventurous blind tasting, there is an experience for every palate. You can also enjoy a delicious cheese platter or some light bites to complement your wine selection.

But Qbar is more than just a place to enjoy wine. It’s a destination that offers a complete sensory experience. The stunning views of the vineyards and mountains, the serene ambiance, and the exceptional service all come together to create a truly unforgettable visit.

So if you’re looking for a wine bar that combines elegance, sustainability, and outstanding wine, look no further than Qbar by Quoin Rock. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply appreciate the finer things in life, Qbar is sure to leave a lasting impression.

I’m here to tell you about a fantastic wine bar in the heart of Stellenbosch. It’s called Qbar by Quoin Rock, and it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some delicious tapas and cocktails.

When the Gaiduk family took over Quoin Rock wine estate in 2018, they knew they had something special. They decided to give the estate a fresh start and create a unique experience for their visitors. That’s when Qbar was born.

Qbar is a more laid-back and casual version of the estate’s fine dining restaurant, Gåte. The design is sleek and stylish, and the attention to detail is impressive. It’s the kind of place where you can come in and unwind after a long day, or meet up with friends for a fun evening out.

One of the best things about Qbar is its courtyard setting. You can sit outside and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while sipping on a glass of their exquisite wine. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun and watch the world go by.

Speaking of wine, Qbar offers a fantastic selection from the Quoin Rock wine estate. They have three different ranges to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. And if you’re not a wine lover, don’t worry – they also have a great cocktail menu.

But Qbar is about more than just drinks. They also have a tempting tapas menu that’s perfect for snacking and sharing. The dishes are carefully crafted and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, they have something for everyone.

So next time you’re in Stellenbosch, be sure to swing by Qbar by Quoin Rock. It’s a hidden gem that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a great place to hang out, Qbar has it all. Cheers!

When you step into the De Wet centre, you’re whisked away from the bustling traffic and find yourself in a serene, hidden courtyard. It’s a peaceful oasis, shielded by towering plane trees and colorful umbrellas. As I walked into Qbar, I was immediately drawn to the elegant interior created by the talented architect, Julia Gaiduk. The marble-topped tables and raw-wood chairs take center stage, providing both style and comfort.

Qbar’s design exudes sophistication, with deep green and gold tones, plush velvet banquettes, and bar seats that beckon you to sit and relax. It’s reminiscent of the refined Quoin Rock estate, but on a smaller, more intimate scale. I couldn’t help but admire the exquisite bathrooms, thoughtfully designed with beautiful tiles, luxurious toiletries, and stunning basins.

Let’s talk about the wines

Hey there! Have you heard about Qbar? It’s the perfect place to try out all the amazing wines from the Quoin Rock portfolio. But here’s the twist – instead of the usual wine-tasting format, you get to enjoy these wines in a more relaxed and casual way. Grab a glass or a bottle and settle in for a delightful tasting experience.

Now, I have to mention that if you’re looking for a traditional wine-tasting experience, you’ll have to visit the estates’ tasting rooms. But don’t worry, Qbar has something special to offer. It’s all about enjoying these fantastic wines without any pretension or pressure.

Let me tell you a little bit about the wine farms that make up the Quoin Rock portfolio. First, there’s Quoin Rock itself. Located in the beautiful Knorhoek Valley just outside Stellenbosch, it’s a haven for wine enthusiasts. Then you have Knorhoek, which is right next door to Quoin Rock. Lastly, there’s Boskloof in the cool-climate Elim region near Cape Agulhas. This diverse collection of locations gives winemaker Schalk Opperman an incredible selection of grape varietals to work with.

So, what are you waiting for? Come on down to Qbar and experience the best of the Quoin Rock portfolio. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just starting your wine journey, you’re sure to find something that delights your taste buds. Cheers!

When it comes to choosing a glass of wine, it’s important to find the perfect match. That’s why I recommend starting with a glass from the fresh Namysto Lifestyle range. These wines are easy to enjoy and offer a delightful taste. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you can go straight for the more complex, high-end Quoin Rock blends. These wines offer a unique and sophisticated flavor profile that will surely impress.

Now, for those special occasions, why not splash out on a bottle of the Quoin Rock signature Black Series MCC? This sparkling wine is a true gem. Its fine bubbles and elegant taste will elevate any celebration to new heights. It’s the perfect choice for toasting to life’s memorable moments.

But don’t just take my word for it. The knowledgeable and passionate sommelier, Bongani Mataboga, will regale you with fascinating background stories and details about each wine. He’ll even advise you on the best dishes to pair with your chosen wine, ensuring a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Of course, it’s not just the sommelier who is a true ambassador for the brand. All the staff, including the managers and chefs, have been trained and worked on the estate. They are all passionate and knowledgeable about the wines and the culinary creations that accompany them.

The Food

Hey there! I’ve got a fantastic story about Qbar’s tapas menu that you’re going to love. So, Executive Chef Jack Coetzee from Gåte Restaurant is the mastermind behind this culinary creation. Let me tell you, Chef Jack really knows his stuff when it comes to flavor. He’s managed to create a menu that is both simple and incredibly delicious.

Now, the great thing about Qbar’s tapas menu is that it’s perfect for sharing. You and your friends can dive into these incredible dishes together. Plus, each dish is specially designed to pair perfectly with one or two of the fabulous wines on their list.

Picture this: a generous bowl filled with crispy tempura shimeji mushrooms. They’re perfectly cooked and totally addictive. To top it all off, they come with this amazing garlic emulsion. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven. This dish is the perfect snack to enjoy with a refreshing drink before your main meal.

But wait, there’s more! Qbar’s tapas menu has another winner: sweetcorn dhaltjies, also known as chili bites. These little bites of goodness come with a Cape Malay curry dipping sauce. The combination of flavors is out of this world. And to make it even better, they go amazingly well with the feisty Quoin Rock white blend, which is a mix of sauvignon blanc and semillon. It’s like a party in your mouth!

I hope I’ve captured your imagination with this story about Qbar’s tapas menu. Trust me, it’s a culinary experience you won’t want to miss!

Hey there! How about diving into a delightful feast by trying out our entire menu? Whether you’re looking to have a leisurely lunch or a satisfying dinner, we have got you covered.

Aside from the scrumptious fried snacks, I highly recommend trying out the trout gravlax on crispy toasts. It’s an invigorating combination of cucumber and apple that will leave you feeling refreshed. For something a little more indulgent, our pale-green pea risotto is simply luscious. And if you’re up for an adventure, the seared wildebeest topped with chimichurri is an absolute must-try! The wildebeest meat comes from our Cape Agulhas farm, where we also raise wagyu beef.

Our attention to detail extends to our handmade bowls and plates. Take a close look at their exquisite leaf or flower patterns, each one carefully engraved and glazed in a beautiful white finish. The result is a set of bowls and plates that are both pretty and understated.

Now, when it comes to desserts, our menu was still a work in progress when we visited. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a glass of Quoin Rock vine-dried sauvignon blanc. It’ll provide that perfect sweet finish to lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings.

Exciting your taste buds

When you step into Qbar, you’re in for a treat before and after dinner. Bongani and Armstrong Sala, the manager, have come up with a unique twist on the classic Negroni. Using Knorhoek gins infused with botanicals from the estate and meticulously distilled by Wilderer, they’ve crafted a pink Negroni that is one of a kind. You’ll find it featured throughout their cocktail menu, making it a must-try.

If you’re looking for something to enjoy after your meal, I highly recommend their Quoin Rock husk spirit. It’s a spirit made from the skins left after fermenting their vine-dried dessert wine. It’s technically a grappa, but they can’t officially call it that outside of Italy. Regardless of its name, it’s a perfect digestif to end your evening on a high note.

Now, let me give you some practical information. Qbar is open every day from 12pm until 12am. So whether you’re planning a lunchtime outing or a late-night gathering with friends, Qbar has got you covered. If you have any questions or want to make a reservation, you can reach them at 021 888 4740 or send an email to stellenbosch@qbar.co.za. And when it comes to location, you’ll find Qbar in the De Wet Centre Courtyard on Church Street in Stellenbosch.