The countdown to the annual Stellenbosch Wine Festival has begun. There are just weeks to go before it opens as the centrepiece of Wine Town Stellenbosch, a celebration of the humble grape, from 4 to 9 August.
Inaugurated last year, Wine Town Stellenbosch features a diverse series of events and experiences designed to offer something for everyone. Among them are live music performances, farm walks, inspired meals, and tutored tastings – from formal to informal occasions – all featuring top wines as the main attraction.
At the heart of the celebration is the Stellenbosch Wine Festival on Friday 5 August and Saturday 6 August. This two-day showcase in the Stellenbosch Town Hall is ideal for wine lovers wanting a first-hand snapshot of the region’s excellence and heritage.
Stalls run by the region’s top wineries will offer tastings, from 16:00 to 20:00 on Friday; and, 14:00 to 18:00 on Saturday. Food prepared by renowned Stellenbosch chef Bertus Basson will be available too.
See the sights
Among the highlights are:
On 4 August
- Learn more about Cabernet Sauvignon, a stalwart of Stellenbosch, in a sunset walk and tasting at Ernie Els Wines. In the line-up will be a range of vintages from 20 producers of the Stellenbosch Cabernet Collective. Tickets are R275 pp. Book online via Plankton.
- Join renowned winemaker Luke O’Cuinneagain for tutored wine blending at Glenelly wine estate. Expect an intimate and informative session that provides insight into the components of a blend and varietal interactions. Tickets are R150 pp. To book, email luke@glenelly.co.za.
On 5 August
On 6 August – Runventures
On 7 August
On 9 August
Get some more
On 10 August
The Simon Wine Emporium has curated an evening dedicated to the grande dames of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes. It promises wines from diverse estates, a three-course meal and stories in celebration of the contributions of Annatjie Melck, Nora Sperling-Thiel, Vera Sperling and Norma Ratcliffe. Tickets are R625 pp. Book via the Emporium’s website (www.simonwineemporium.co.za)
Special offers on accommodation are available via the town’s Stay Stellenbucks campaign. Book two nights’ accommodation or more and received. 20% in Stellenbucks coupons to spend at participating wine farms, restaurants and experiences. For more information, visit www.Stellenbucks.visitstellenbosch.org.
Join the social media conversation about this year’s Wine Town Stellenbosch and use #WineTownStellenbosch when you connect with @stellwineroute on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
