A Visit to the Weltevrede Estate Tasting Room

Step inside the Weltevrede Estate tasting room, and prepare to be amazed. This hidden gem is a delightful mix of charm and wonder that will captivate your senses. From the moment you enter, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere that is both welcoming and exciting. Here, the wines come alive, transporting you to a world of flavors and aromas that will leave you wanting more.

My first impression of the tasting room was one of surprise. The space was beautifully decorated, with a blend of modern design and rustic elements that created a warm and inviting ambiance. I was immediately drawn to the long wooden bar, where I could see the bottles of wine waiting to be uncorked. It was as if they were teasing me, inviting me to discover their secrets.

As I approached the bar, I was greeted by a friendly staff member who introduced herself as Jane. She had a genuine smile and a contagious enthusiasm for the wines. It was clear that she was passionate about her job and eager to share her knowledge with me. “Welcome to Weltevrede,” she said. “Are you ready to embark on a wine adventure?”

I nodded eagerly, and Jane began to pour a variety of wines for me to taste. Each glass held a different story, a unique expression of the terroir and the winemaker’s art. I savored every sip, allowing the flavors to dance on my palate and awaken my senses. From the crisp citrus notes of the Chardonnay to the rich, velvety texture of the Cabernet Sauvignon, each wine had its own personality and charm.

As I continued to explore the tasting menu, Jane shared stories about the winery and its history. She spoke of the passion and dedication that goes into every bottle, the careful selection of grapes, and the meticulous winemaking process. I could sense her pride as she described the awards and accolades that the wines have received over the years.

One of the highlights of my visit was the sensory room, a special space designed to enhance the wine-tasting experience. Here, I was invited to close my eyes and focus on the scents and flavors of the wine. The room was filled with different aromas, from the fresh grassy scent of Sauvignon Blanc to the earthy, spicy notes of Shiraz. It was a truly immersive experience that deepened my appreciation for the wines.

After the tasting, I had the opportunity to purchase some of my favorite wines to take home. The staff was helpful in guiding me through the selection, offering recommendations based on my preferences. I left the tasting room with a few bottles, eager to share my newfound discoveries with friends and family.

Visiting the Weltevrede Estate tasting room was an unforgettable experience. It was more than just a wine tasting; it was a journey of the senses, a celebration of the art of winemaking. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a curious novice, I highly recommend adding this hidden gem to your list of must-visit destinations.

So here’s the deal: Weltevrede Estate, which is located just outside Bonnievale in the Robertson Wine Valley, recently went through some pretty cool changes. After all these years (a whopping 109, to be exact), they’ve decided to shake things up.

First things first, this family-owned estate has decided to focus exclusively on two types of wine: Chardonnay and Cap Classique. They’re going all in on these two varieties, putting all their expertise and passion into crafting the best wines possible.

Oh, and that’s not all. They’ve also opened a brand-new tasting room in November 2021. And I gotta tell you, it’s pretty amazing. The moment you step inside, you can feel the warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some truly top-notch wines.

So if you’re a fan of Chardonnay or Cap Classique, or if you simply love exploring new and exciting wine experiences, Weltevrede Estate is definitely worth a visit. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

A massive sandy-colored building stands proudly at Weltevrede Estate, overlooking the vast fields. The front is adorned with perfectly manicured gardens that wrap around a tranquil water feature. To the east, the Langeberg mountains stretch out, while to the west, the Riviersonderend Mountains loom in the distance.

As I approach the entrance, I am immediately drawn to a dark, spherical opening in the center. Stepping inside, I am greeted by a refreshing coolness and a soothing dimness that provides relief from the scorching outdoor heat. The room is furnished with luxurious, overstuffed armchairs that beckon me to relax and unwind.

But the real question is, which tour should I choose? Luckily, Weltevrede Estate offers a variety of tours that cater to different tastes and interests.

If you’re a fan of Chardonnay, then the Captivated by Chardonnay tour is perfect for you. As you descend the stairs to the left, you’ll be taken on a journey through the rich history of winemaking. The underground cellars, once used as wine tanks, have now been transformed into a tribute to the art of winemaking. They are filled with fascinating artifacts and historical records that provide insights into the world of wine.

Each tour at Weltevrede Estate offers a unique experience. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of winemaking, there is something for everyone. So come and explore the wonders of Weltevrede Estate and let your senses be captivated.

Sit yourself down next to the soft glow of flickering candlelight and savor the irresistible Chardonnays crafted on this estate. These wines are like works of art, capturing the essence of the earth from which they emerge. Winemaker Philip Jonker masterfully encapsulates the true character of the land in every bottle.

The wines possess a unique identity, owing to the prominent presence of limestone and calcrete in their composition. Place of Rocks is born from ancient vines situated on a sloping bed of weathered shale. On the other hand, Calcrete is born from vines that draw their sustenance from limestone and nutrient-rich calcrete soil, basking in the southern sunlight. And then there’s Poet’s Prayer, a wine deeply rooted in the mineral-rich lime terroir. This extraordinary elixir is crafted from a meticulous selection of grapes sourced exclusively from the finest years.

Experience Cap Classique tastings like never before!

Let’s start our journey in the cellar, where something truly fascinating happens. Imagine watching as each bottle of Cap Classique is delicately tilted downwards, little by little, while being gently rotated. This process is known as riddling and it plays a crucial role in the creation of these extraordinary sparkling wines. As I guide you through the captivating world of Cap Classique and Champagne production, you’ll get to witness this age-old tradition firsthand.

Now, picture yourself entering a vibrant tasting room that is filled with bright light. While it may lack the enchanting ambiance of candle-lit Chardonnay tastings, it sets the stage for an extraordinary encounter with the latest vintages of Philip Jonker Brut. The first wine I’ll introduce you to is Entheos, a lively blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir. This vibrant wine has been carefully matured on the lees for up to three years, resulting in a beautiful mousse and a lingering aftertaste that will leave you wanting more.

But let me tell you, the true star of the show is The Ring Blanc de Blancs. This exceptional wine made its debut at Philip Jonker’s very own wedding, making it an unforgettable and cherished experience for all who taste it.

Create your own Bottle of Cap Classique

Did you know that you have the exciting opportunity to make your very own bottle of Cap Classique? From the disgorgement process to the dosage, corking, and capping with a muselet (the wire hood), you can be a part of every step. And the best part? You get to take your creation home with you. Just remember, the cork can handle up to four bars of pressure!

Here’s an interesting tidbit: muselet plates, used to secure the muselet, are actually collector’s items. There’s a whole hobby dedicated to collecting them called placomusophilia.

Weltevrede Estate, where this unique opportunity takes place, has been the home of the Jonker family since 1912. Talk about history! Some of the vineyards on the estate are an impressive 93 years old, with the very first vine, a Muscadel, being planted in 1926. Japie Jonker, the estate’s first winemaker, started making wine there in 1933. The 200-hectare estate boasts 100 hectares of vineyards, producing around 1,300 tonnes of grapes every year.

You can join the captivating experience of making your own Chardonnay on Mondays to Saturdays from 2pm to 4pm. If Cap Classique is more your style, you can indulge in the process from 10am to 11:30am, also from Mondays to Saturdays. With these flexible options, you can create your very own Cap Classique anytime from Mondays to Saturdays.

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