Wonderful winelands – Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

YYou don’t have to travel far to get a taste of the Cape Winelands. Just head on over to Franschhoek or Stellenbosch (or both) where you can sip, swirl and swallow your way through some of the best wines South Africa has to offer.

Franschhoek

Tucked away in the Groot Drakenstein Mountains, the Franschhoek Wine Route is considered South Africa’s “gourmet capital”. Franschhoek translates to “French corner” and the entire region has hints of its historical beginnings, and you will experience a pervasive French influence in the wine making, dining, art and design. If you love food and adore luxury, then this is the place for you.

The Franschhoek winelands falls within both the Western Cape’s coastal wine-growing region and forms part of the Paarl wine district. There are 43 active wineries along the route, ranging from popular brands like Boschendal and L’Ormarins to very small, artisan producers like My Wyn (pronounced “My Vayn”) and Black Elephant Vintners. Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Chardonnay and Semillon farmers make up the bulk of the vineyard plantings in Franschhoek, making Franschhoek a “must do” for every wine lover.