The Top 10 Wineries You Must Experience in Wellington

Discover the Delights of Bosman Family Vineyards

Come along on a journey off the beaten path…

This quaint town, established way back in 1840, boasts a rich history of winemaking that has stood the test of time. Some might believe it hasn’t kept up with modern developments, but they’d be mistaken. In fact, it’s the birthplace of the renowned chocolate pinotage wine and even a white pinotage – a truly unique creation found nowhere else in South Africa. Now that’s what I call innovating!

What’s more, thanks to its exceptional climate, Wellington is home to a remarkable 80% of vine nurseries that supply the entire South African wine industry with quality rootstock. This is why it proudly holds the title of “The Cradle of Wine”. The experts here truly know their craft.

Wow, Wellington has so much going for it! The scenic settings and breathtaking views just make you want to stay there forever. Plus, they have dog-friendly hiking trails and tons of activities for the kids. And let’s not forget about the cozy accommodations and amazing food!

It’s the perfect escape from the stress of modern life and those crowded wine routes nearby. So whether you’re planning a day trip or a whole weekend stay, keep reading to discover the best of the Wellington Wine Route. Oh, and don’t forget to book ahead!

What’s your favorite spot? Let us know in the comments below!

Bosman Family Vineyards

The Bosman family has been growing vines for generations, and their farm is steeped in history. When you visit the Tasting Room, you’re greeted with beautiful gardens and exquisite handcrafted wines. They even have some unique varieties like Sicilian Nero d’Avola and Fides, an orange wine made with skin-on grapes. Of course, they also have classic wines like cabernet, cinsaut, chenin cap classique, and the amazing Optenhorst very-old-vine chenin blanc. And if you visit during the week, you can explore the ancient cellar “museum” and see where the old wine vats used to be, right through a glass floor. How cool is that?

The food They offer delicious Dalewood cheese platters and mouthwatering bitterballen to go along with the wine tasting.

Stay You can stay at the cozy Vineyard Cottage, which has a splash pool and lovely vine-covered porches with stunning views.

Cost Wine-tasting: R100 for 5 wines, R200 for 5 premium wines.

Opening times Monday – Thursday: 9am – 5pm
Friday: 9am – 4.30pm
Saturday: 10am – 4pm

Contact 021 873 3170, taste@bosmanwines.com

Where to find it Lelienfontein Farm, Hexberg Road, Wellington

Welcome to Imbuko Wines

Hey there! Imbuko Wines is a gorgeous estate that offers stunning views (the name means “admiration for” in isiXhosa). It’s the perfect place for a fun family outing. We have plenty of seating space both indoors and outdoors, and we even have a large jungle gym and grassy area for the kids to play. So, grab a seat on our veranda and get ready to experience our fantastic range of wines!

We have five different wine labels for you to try, covering everything from rich reds to crisp whites, delightful rosé, and even a classy cap classique. Feeling curious? You can also embark on a wine pairing adventure! We have options like wine with gourmet pies or spritzers with macaroons. And hey, if you’re up for a challenge, we have a blind tasting game where you can win a wine hamper if you guess correctly!

Now, let’s talk about the food! Our famous pies are a must-try, and you can order them without the wine pairing if you prefer. They pair perfectly with a side salad. Oh, and we can’t forget about our decadent milkshakes and farmhouse toasties. Yum! And for all you cheese lovers out there, we have a delightful cheese platter option just for you.

Here’s a little extra tidbit of information for you: we host the annual Imbuko Big 5 MTB Challenge, an internationally rated hill-climbing race. The next one is happening on February 17, 2024. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Now, let’s talk about the cost. Our wine tastings range from R40 to R95, and you’ll get to sample 3 to 5 wines. If you’re interested in a wine pairing experience, it’s priced at R100. And here are our opening times: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (our kitchen closes at 3.30pm). On Saturdays and public holidays, we’re open from 9am to 3pm (kitchen closes at 1.30pm). Feel free to give us a call at 021 873 7350 or shoot us an email at info@imbuko.co.za if you have any questions.

You’ll find us at Uitkyk Farm, Bo-Dal Road, Wellington. We can’t wait to welcome you to Imbuko Wines!

Welcome to Diemersfontein Wine & Country Estate!

I’m excited to share with you the story of Diemersfontein, a place that has a lot more to offer than just the famous coffee-chocolate pinotage. This beautiful estate, which was initially a family retreat in the 1940s, has transformed into a haven for wine lovers, event enthusiasts, and foodies alike.

When you visit Diemersfontein, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the diverse range of wines they have to offer. Whether you’re in the stylish Tasting Room or relaxing on the verandah, you can delight in swirling and sipping wines from four different ranges. In addition to the original pinotage, which now has two sister wines (Prodigy and Carpe Diem), you can also enjoy chenin blanc, sauvignon blanc, rosé, malbec, and a sweet viognier, among others.

If you’re a food lover, Diemersfontein has you covered. Their Hope Bistro serves globally inspired menus that include delicious tapas. And if you’re in the mood for a snack, you can stop by their deli and pick up treats like shiraz relish, pinotage preserve, and Diemersfontein toffee.

When it comes to accommodations, the Diemersfontein Guesthouse is the perfect blend of country charm and luxury. With 10 garden rooms and two self-catering cottages, you’ll have a comfortable and memorable stay.

Now, here’s something exciting – you can even book a guided horse ride on the estate! Imagine exploring the beautiful surroundings on horseback.

Wine-tasting at Diemersfontein is R50, and they open from Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. The restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday, with lunch from 12 pm to 3 pm and dinner from 6 pm to 9 pm. On Sundays, they serve lunch from 12 pm to 3:30 pm.

If you want to learn more or make a booking, you can contact Diemersfontein at 021 864 5050 or email them at welcome@diemersfontein.co.za. For restaurant inquiries, call 066 346 5364.

Diemersfontein is located on Jan van Riebeeck Drive (R301) in Wellington. It’s a place that truly offers a unique and unforgettable experience for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful country retreat. Come and experience the beauty and charm of Diemersfontein for yourself!

Welcome to Wellington Wines at Bovlei

Welcome to the beautifully renovated cellar at Bovlei, the second-oldest cellar in South Africa. Here at Wellington Wines, we have a longstanding collaboration between Bovlei, Wamakersvallei, and the Wellington Co-Operative. Our tasting room offers a warm and cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy our award-winning wines while taking in breathtaking views of the vineyard. From crisp chenin blanc to rich shiraz, we have a wide range of wines for you to explore. Don’t forget to check out our unique white pinotage. And if you visit in the late afternoon, you might catch a glimpse of the stunning “Man of Wellington” rock formation from our terrace.

Indulge in Delicious Food

Get ready for some home-cooked comfort food at Duke’s Kitchen. We serve up casual fare like mouthwatering pizzas and juicy burgers. On Sundays, we have a special meal of the day (make sure to book by Friday). While you savor every bite, your little ones can have a great time at our play park surrounded by beautiful trees.

Join the Festivities

Make sure to mark your calendar for the Moonlight Market, which takes place on the last Friday of every month starting at 4pm. This magical event is a delightful celebration, featuring live music, delicious food stalls, and captivating art exhibits. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Plan Your Visit

Our wine-tasting options include:

– R40 for a tasting of 5 Duke wines

– R80 for a tasting of 5 La Cave wines

– R60 for a tasting that includes the best of both, with 5 wines in total.

We are open from Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm, and on Saturdays from 10am – 5pm. On Sundays and public holidays, you can visit us from 11am – 3pm. If you’re looking to enjoy a meal at our restaurant, we are open from Wednesday to Saturday, 11am – 8pm, and on Sundays from 11am – 2pm.

Contact Us

For any inquiries or to make a reservation, you can reach us at 021 873 1582 or send an email to info@wellingtonwines.com. If you have any questions specifically about the restaurant, feel free to call us at 066 539 3110.

Visit Us

You’ll find Wellington Wines at Bovlei located on Bainskloof Road (R301) in Wellington. We look forward to welcoming you!

Welcome to Doolhof Wine Estate!

As I drive along a dusty road that winds through the mountains, I can’t help but feel a surge of anticipation. Doolhof is tucked away in its own hidden valley, completely surrounded by vines, forests, and majestic mountains. This historic estate, which dates back to 1707, offers a blissful escape from the outside world. The Kromme River flows through the estate, creating a serene and picturesque setting. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Before embarking on your outdoor adventure, I highly recommend starting with a visit to the elegant Tasting Room. Here, you can enjoy the exquisite flavors of three different ranges of award-winning wines. From a delightful cap classique to the renowned shiraz created by the talented singer Karen Zoid, there’s something to please every palate.

Once you’ve experienced the taste of Doolhof wines, it’s time to explore the wonders that await you outside. Take a leisurely stroll along the river’s edge, and feel the soothing rhythm of the water. Don’t worry, you can bring your four-legged friend along for the adventure – they’re more than welcome here! If you’re feeling a bit more energetic, there are trails for hiking and mountain biking. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you navigate the labyrinth and gaze upon the breathtaking vistas.

The Food

After working up an appetite, head over to Mila at Doolhof for a memorable dining experience. The menu is inspired by the seasons and features dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The bistro-style food is sure to delight your taste buds. If you prefer a more relaxed dining option, why not pre-order a gourmet picnic basket? Picture yourself enjoying a delicious meal by the riverside, surrounded by the idyllic scenery.

Where to Stay

If you’re looking to extend your stay, Doolhof offers two exceptional options. For a unique glamping experience, book a stay at AfriCamps. Each luxurious tent comes with its very own hot tub on the deck, allowing you to unwind while taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Alternatively, indulge in the luxury and charm of the five-star Doolhof Boutique Hotel. This Cape Dutch manor boasts six magnificent suites, a grand verandah, a refreshing pool, and a tranquil spa room. No matter which option you choose, you’ll feel pampered and rejuvenated.

Good to Know

Make sure to plan your visit accordingly! On one Saturday of every month, Doolhof hosts a morning Farmers’ Market. From 8:30 am, you can browse through a variety of food and craft stalls while enjoying live music. Additionally, if you’re an avid mountain biker, you’ll be thrilled to know that Doolhof regularly hosts Weekend Warrior MTB events.

Opening Times and Contact Information

Wine-tasting is available from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm. On Saturdays and public holidays, you can indulge from 10 am to 4 pm, and on Sundays from 10 am to 3 pm. If you’re hoping to dine at the restaurant, keep in mind that it’s open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm. For any inquiries or reservations, reach out to Doolhof at 021 864 2805 or wine@doolhof.com. You’ll find the estate nestled along Bovlei Road in Wellington.

Welcome to Dunstone Wines!

Hey there! I’m so excited to tell you about Dunstone Wines, a charming little winery tucked away at the foot of Bainskloof Pass. It’s the kind of place that offers the best of both worlds – a peaceful escape in nature and some seriously amazing wine. And guess what? It’s perfect for a fun family day out too!

Let’s start with the wine, shall we? Dunstone Wines is known for their incredible reds, and they offer wine tastings in the cozy lounge at their Country House. But here’s the real treat – they have a unique wine and Belgian chocolate pairing! Can you imagine how delicious that must be? It’s a match made in heaven.

Now, here’s why Dunstone Wines is such a hit with families. They’ve got hiking and biking trails for the adventurous souls, and tons of activities to keep the kids entertained. There’s a jungle gym, mini-golf, mini-soccer, swings, slides, and even farm animals to meet! Oh, and did I mention they’re dog-friendly too? Bring your furry friend along for a wonderful day out.

But wait, there’s more! Let’s talk about The Stone Kitchen bistro. They serve up delicious country-cuisine favorites, platters, and daily specials. It’s the kind of food that hits the spot and leaves you feeling satisfied. And the best part? The bistro is super child-friendly! They have a special menu just for kids, plus indoor and outdoor play areas. There’s a LEGO table, a climbing wall, and even a mini kitchen. That’s what I call fun for the whole family!

If you want to extend your stay, Dunstone Wines has got you covered. They offer five cozy suites in the historic Country House (it used to be stables!) or you can opt for the Guava Cottage nestled among the beautiful vineyards. Talk about a dream getaway!

Oh, and here’s a cool tidbit – if you visit Dunstone Wines in February or March, you might have the chance to join in the harvest. How cool is that? You can experience the magic of winemaking firsthand!

To make things even better, the prices at Dunstone Wines are totally reasonable. Wine tastings are only R80, and they’re open from Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 9pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:30am to 5pm. You can contact them at 076 351 7315 or send an email to stay@dunstone.co.za. For restaurant inquiries, call 076 845 1196.

Now that you know all about Dunstone Wines, what are you waiting for? It’s time to plan your visit to this little slice of paradise. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

See you soon at Dunstone Wines, your new favorite winery!

Where to find us: Bovlei Road, Wellington

Welcome to Welbedacht, the Burger family’s farm!

Our farm, Welbedacht, has been a part of the Burger family since the 1990s, but it was established way back in 1830. We’re a sports-loving family, and we even have our own cricket oval. But sports isn’t the only thing we’re passionate about – we also have a sprawling vineyard with 12 different types of grapes. This means we offer a wide variety of wines for you to try in our original cellar, now transformed into a cozy tasting room. The tasting room is located in a beautiful garden where every corner is meticulously manicured.

When you visit Welbedacht, you’ll find four wine ranges to choose from. One of our ranges is called Meerkat, which we like to think of as “SA’s most gregarious wines.” This range was inspired by our very own pet meerkats, who bring much joy and playfulness to our farm. We also produce a special line of wines for the Rugby World Cup, which we’re sure you’ll enjoy.

One of the things that sets Welbedacht apart is our delightful eccentricity and down-to-earth bonhomie. There’s a special sparkle to a visit here, and we hope it adds an extra touch of magic to your experience.

Good to know: Every now and then, we have live music concerts for you to enjoy. We also host the annual Boland Gravel Monster cycling race.

Opening times:

Monday – Friday: 10am – 5pm

Saturday and public holidays: 10am – 2pm

Contact:

rene@welbedacht.co.za

Where to find us:

Oakdene Road, Wellington

Val du Charron: A Charming Corner of the Winelands

Welcome to Val du Charron, a historic farm located in the picturesque Wellington Valley. With a rich history dating back to the 1700s, this beautiful estate offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. The Entwistle family, who have been the custodians of this estate since 2006, have tastefully modernized the property while preserving its original charm.

Start your visit by exploring the sculpture-dotted lawns and taking a leisurely stroll through the vineyards. Val du Charron boasts 15 different grape varietals, but the real showstoppers are the unique blends. Experience these blends in a one-of-a-kind tasting experience called the “Theatre of Wine,” where you’ll sample the wines in three acts.

If you prefer a more traditional wine experience, you can also enjoy a guided tour of the cellar and vineyard. Learn about the winemaking process and gain a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

For nature lovers, Val du Charron offers the Wild Boar hiking and mountain-biking trails. Explore the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape as you immerse yourself in nature.

After working up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at one of Val du Charron’s dining options. For a casual meal, head to Pizza Vista, where you can enjoy mouthwatering pizza while the kids cool off in the water-sprinkler play park. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, The Grillroom is the place to be. Known for its exceptional meat dishes, the restaurant also offers a variety of seafood options, delectable breakfasts, and refreshing cocktails.

Complete your visit to Val du Charron by staying overnight in one of their comfortable accommodations. You have the choice between a four-star guesthouse/hotel, three luxury pool suites in The Coach House, or a cozy two-bedroom Manor House.

Wine tastings at Val du Charron are priced at R49 per person, and the estate is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. If you’re craving pizza, Pizza Vista is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 9pm, and on Sundays, 12pm to 4pm. The Grillroom is open daily from 7.30am to 9pm.

To plan your visit to Val du Charron or make a reservation, contact them at 021 873 1256 or send an email to stay@vdcwines.com. You can find Val du Charron on Bovlei Road in Wellington, a true gem in the heart of the Winelands.

Discover the Hidden Gem: Upland Organic Estate

Imagine stumbling upon a hidden treasure tucked away in the quiet countryside, at the end of a winding dirt road. Welcome to Upland Organic Estate – a charming and unpretentious farm that produces the finest fruits, olives, nuts, and wines. What sets this place apart is their unwavering commitment to sustainable farming practices that not only produce exceptional flavors but also preserve the beauty of nature.

As I enter the historic Oude Klaskamer, which was once the very first schoolroom in the area, I am instantly transported to a bygone era. This atmospheric setting perfectly complements the tasting experience that awaits me. Upland has been making waves in the wine world for more than a decade, crafting magnificent brandy, grappa, port-style wine, and cabernet sauvignon. What’s even more remarkable is that all their products are sulphite-free and vegan, truly a testament to their dedication to holistic winemaking.

There’s no doubt that the crown jewel of Upland is their Cape Tawny port, a true masterpiece that has been crowned the Best Port in the prestigious Platter’s wine guide. From the first sip, you can taste the rich history and passion that go into every bottle. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss the opportunity to try their cask-strength brandy – South Africa’s only undiluted brandy.

Once you’ve indulged in the exquisite flavors, take a stroll through the enchanting farm. With permission, you can even bring your own picnic and enjoy a peaceful moment by the river. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature while savoring the pleasures of Upland Organic Estate.

Cost: Wine-tasting: R100 per person
Opening times: By appointment only
Contact: 082 731 4774, info@organicwine.co.za
Where to find it: Fisantekuil Farm, Upland Road, off Berg Street, Wellington

Welcome to Mont du Toit Wines!

The Du Toit family has been farming for over 300 years, carrying on the traditions of their French Huguenot ancestors. Their beautiful estate is nestled at the base of the majestic Hawequa Mountains, where they cultivate a variety of red grapes – cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, and shiraz. These exceptional wines are crafted using traditional and environmentally friendly methods, making them truly special.

Here at Mont du Toit Wines, we invite you to immerse yourself in the world of our internationally acclaimed, full-bodied wines. Join us for a delightful tasting experience with our talented winemaker, who will guide you through the flavors and stories behind each unique wine. To ensure personalized attention, please make an appointment for your tasting session – we look forward to welcoming you!

Cost

Wine-tasting: R75 for a selection of two ranges.

Opening Times

We are open from Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4.30pm.

Contact

To book your wine-tasting appointment, please call us at 021 873 7777 or email us at kelder@montdutoit.co.za.

Where to Find Us

You can find us at 119 Blouvlei Road, Wellington. We can’t wait to share our exceptional wines with you!