South Africa is well known for its various wine regions, most famous of which is Stellenbosch. After two days of driving from the South African border we arrived in the town mid-morning and promptly set out for our full day wine tour! On the agenda were four wineries. These included Simonsig, Fairview (Goats du Rhone), Franschhoek, and Boschendal (See below).
All in all, the day was quite a success. At each winery we had the opportunity to try 5 or 6 different varieties including two that were specific to South Africa: the Pinotage (a hybrid of Pinot and Hermitage grapes) and the Chenin Blanc. The Chenin Blanc can also be found in France; however, it is considered a South African specialty. By our second winery we were in full swing and it wasn't even 1 pm yet. Lunch was served in a small restaurant in town and we were all quite thankful for the intermission. The two wineries that we toured in the morning ended up being better than the two in the afternoon; however, the last winery was absolutely beautiful as it was placed between two mountains just outside of Stellenbosch. It was one of the oldest wineries in town but its wines didn't rank among the best of our tour.
In the evening after our tour we all headed out for a farewell dinner at the Cape Town Seafood Market (which isn't actually in Cape Town) where we had some exceedingly mediocre steak. I think we had been spoiled by the amazing steak and game available in Swakopmund and throughout Namibia. Surprisingly, Mel's sushi and my veggie tempura were actually really tasty!
Road leading up to Simonsig estate, with Stellenbosch valley in the background.
Original front entrance to Simonsig - now its just there for decoration.
Old buidling at Boschendal Winery. The winery had beautiful green lawns and old oak trees that dated back over 270 years.
By the end of the day Phil was still going strong (Quadrouple Fisting!) and seemed to be having a great time.
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