5 Reasons to Visit the Breedekloof Wine Valley
Most, if not all, wine lovers are familiar with South Africa’s more established wine routes: Stellenbosch wine route, home to many of South Africa’s most popular wine cellars, needs little introduction; and Constantia, with its rich history as the home of South Africa’s most famous wine, Vin de Constance, draws a steady stream of tourists year-long. But as much as we love these well-known spots, trends are showing that lesser explored wine valleys are going to become the place to be in the coming months. Not convinced? Here are just 5 reasons to visit the lesser explored Breedekloof Wine Valley.
The Breedekloof Wine Valley, situated at the foot of the Du Toitskloof Mountains, and just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town; has been gaining a reputation as South Africa’s ‘most generous wine valley’ – as this wine route time and again impresses visitors by over-delivering on experiences – especially when it comes to their award-winning wines
1. Off-the-beaten-path
Being a less recognised wine route, the Breedekloof Wine Valley does not experience the high volumes of foot traffic so common at more well-established farms. Life is slower on the other side of the tunnel, allowing for authentic and memorable experiences.
2. The most generous servings in the winelands
The Breedekloof Wine Valley, with its unique and diverse terroir, allow for wines to be made from a wide spectrum of wine varieties – from dry premium red grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon to noble white varieties like Chardonnay, and also in a variety of wine styles, from Muscadel wine and Rosé and sparkling wines – allowing all visitors to find something that pleases their palate. Beyond the exceptional prices, a lunch in the valley will not only be much more traditional fare, allowing visitors to experience a more authentic style of food; but the portions are very generous. And that’s not to mention the prices of the wines.
3. Quality wines at competitive prices
Arguably the most competitive edge these wines have over others must be the price point. Rarely do even their top wines exceed the R250 per bottle mark, with most of the award-winning wines mentioned here averaging more towards R100 to R150 per bottle. Astonishing value!
If you need an excuse to try them all then don’t miss out on the upcoming Soetes & Soup Festival in July 2017. This lively winter celebration, which is hosted at various wineries in the Rawsonville, Slanghoek, Goudini, and Breede River areas, will serve you complimentary cups of steaming homemade country soup accompanied by a glass of red or dessert wines. The festival is a showcase of the Breedekloof’s finest wines and hearty homemade soups– once again affirming why this valley is fast becoming known as “South Africa’s most generous wine route”. Click here for more information on the festival taking place on Friday, 21 and Saturday, 22 July.
4. A focus on South Africa’s foundation stone, Chenin Blanc
A visit to the Breedekloof Valley offers a unique opportunity to focus strongly on South Africa’s most internationally recognised and sought-after varietal. A group of winemakers in the Valley – the Breedekloof Makers – are elevating Chenin Blanc to another level by aiming to bring attention to the quality and diversity of Chenin in the region. The Breedekloof Wine Valley has been synonymous with Chenin Blanc for decades – some farms are home to Chenin Blanc vines planted as far back as 1692. Wines in this initiative boasts some impressive awards, too, including a 5-Star Platter’s rating for Opstal Carl Everson Chenin Blanc 2015, and a Top 10 South African Chenin Blanc rating in the international publication The Drinks Business, for the Olifantsberg Chenin Blanc 2014.
5. Exciting architectural, food and accommodation developments
A beautiful and unique beacon of architecture now stands in the Breedekloof Wine Valley. Bosjes Valley Farm, opposite Botha Cellar, features a striking chapel, landscaped gardens and a restaurant where celebrated chef Pete Goffe-Wood consults, and where rustic lunch and dinners add to the signature style of this amazing venue. There is also accommodation in the guesthouse, which was stylishly decorated by Liam Mooney. According to the locals, this might just be the start of a handful of new, and equally exciting developments to grace the Breedekloof Wine Valley in the future.
Want to know more? Click here to visit the Breedekloof Wine Valley website and start exploring.