Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is know for its amazing South African wines.
Thelema Mountain Vineyard
Stellenbosch is one of the main wine growing regions in South Africa. It has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and cool wet winters. Settled by the Dutch in 1679 and about 30 miles east of Cape Town. We spent 2 days here exploring the wineries.
We went to the Thelema Mountain Vineyard. Stunning landscape with old oak trees and mountain views. They poured Thelema wines and wines from their other property Sutherland. We liked the Thelema Merlot Reserve, Cabernet, and Rabelais. Their “the Mint”, a Cabernet Sauvignon, was unique because the grapes pick up the nearby Eucalyptus trees minty character (Eucalyptol). We also enjoyed the Sutherland Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Cabernet/Petit Verdot. Beautiful tasting room with a nice warm fire on a chilly morning.
Neetlingshof Estate
After that, we were ready for lunch at Neethlingshof Estate. A picturesque property with a drive down a pine tree avenue to the winery and restaurant. Their wines are superb, staff warm and informative, lunch memorable.
Hawksmoor House
We stayed at the Hawksmoor House bed and breakfast. They are in the Stellenbosch region and have their own wines, but limited production.
We wanted to stay in Stellenbosch to optimize wine tasting. This is a beautiful, large, very old farm house with numerous buildings.
The staff were amazing and very accommodating. We enjoyed walking around the property and taking photos. Each room had a different theme. We stayed in the Chinese room. The well water was not drinkable, but they supply drinking water. The floor heating was nice and the bed was firm. Grounds are somewhat run down. However, given the drought and maintenance of such a large property it was understandable. The property is fenced and secure. In the morning many doors were locked but we were able to get into the dining area. Dinner was intimate and very good. Breakfast was perfect and we sat with other guests who recommended things to do in the area.
