Private Stellenbosch and Franschhoek 20 Wine Tasting Tour

About this activity

Embark on an elite journey through South Africa’s most prestigious wine valleys. This private full-day tour is meticulously designed for wine connoisseurs and history enthusiasts alike. From the “Jewel of the Winelands,” Delaire Graff, to the sparkling cellars of Haute Cabrière, you will experience the pinnacle of South African viticulture.

Your journey through the Cape Winelands is balanced with profound historical stops, including a drive through South Africa’s oldest township and a visit to the gates where Nelson Mandela took his first steps toward freedom. With total flexibility and a private luxury vehicle, this is the ultimate way to sip, savor, and discover.

🌟 Tour Highlights

• The Jewel of the Winelands: Experience the world-class art and Bordeaux-style blends at the breathtaking Delaire Graff Estate.

• Mandela’s “Gilded Cage”: Visit Groot Drakenstein Prison (Victor Verster), the historic site where Nelson Mandela spent his final months of captivity before his 1990 release.

• The “French Corner”: Explore the charming town of Franschhoek, renowned for its 17th-century Huguenot heritage and gourmet dining.

• Master of Bubbles: Indulge in a premium Méthode Cap Classique (sparkling wine) tasting at Haute Cabrière, home of Pierre Jourdan.

• Artisanal Cheese & Wine: Savor the famous goat cheese and wine pairings at Fairview Estate in Paarl.

• Cultural Context: Journey through Langa Township, learning about the economic growth and cinematic history (featured in Safe House) of the region’s oldest township.

🗺️ Your Winelands Itinerary

01. Langa & The Journey East We begin with a drive toward the Winelands, passing through Langa, the oldest township in South Africa (est. 1823). Learn about the vibrant local economy and its role in the global film industry before reaching the mountain slopes of Stellenbosch.

02. The Peak of Luxury: Delaire Graff Our first stop is the legendary Delaire Graff Estate. Guided by expert sommeliers, you will sample limited-release wines while surrounded by panoramic views of the Helshoogte Pass and a world-renowned private art collection.

03. History of Freedom: Groot Drakenstein Next, we visit the Drakenstein Prison. Your guide will share the moving story of Mandela’s final 14 months here—a “gilded cage” that led to the dawn of South African democracy. Capture a photo at the monument marking the end of his long walk to freedom.

04. Franschhoek Lunch & The Huguenots We stop in Franschhoek Town for lunch (at your own expense). Known as the food capital of the Cape, you’ll have an hour to explore its boutique shops, Cape Dutch architecture, and the historic Huguenot Monument.

05. Bubbles & Views: Haute Cabrière Inside a cellar carved into the mountain, you’ll experience Haute Cabrière. Taste the crisp, elegant Pierre Jourdan vintages and learn the secrets of the traditional Champagne method from the cellar master’s legacy.

06. The Artisanal Finale: Fairview Before returning to Cape Town, we visit Fairview Estate. Sample a variety of wines expertly paired with their signature goat cheeses—a perfect synergy of texture and flavor that defines the Paarl region.

🗣️ Why Choose This Private Wine Experience?

This is not just a wine tour; it is a deep dive into the South African soul. While public tours are rushed, our private service allows you to linger over a glass of Cabernet at Delaire Graff or take extra time to reflect at the Mandela monument. By combining the three distinct regions of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, you get a complete “tasting” of the Western Cape’s landscape and heritage in total comfort.