3 Gems of the Cape Winelands
Wine buffs are increasingly drawn to the area, as South African wines grow in reputation and popularity on the world stage. Lovers of history too, come to enjoy the wonderfully distinctive Cape Dutch architecture of the majestic homesteads that dot the valleys and hills. The Cape Winelands are perfect to visit as part of a tailor-made holiday to South Africa, or to explore on your own South African travel adventure.
Whether it's just a day trip from Cape Town or a few days spent touring the sights, there is plenty for you to see. If you are lucky enough to be on a luxury holiday to South Africa, you should include a few nights of decadence on a specialised wine tour, staying on a grand Cape Estate. You will revel in the famous Cape hospitality, with world-class cuisine and, of course, a mouth-watering selection of local wines!
If your budget doesn't stretch to luxury, there are many other ways to enjoy a tailor-made holiday to South Africa: View things from a different perspective and hit the open road on a Cape sidecar motorcycle, whizz around the countryside with the wind in your hair as a passenger, or take charge and drive your own! The area is also criss-crossed with hiking trails of all levels, and you can spend an afternoon strolling through rolling pastures and vineyards - stopping for a quick (or leisurely) taste on the way! You can also visit one of the many local cheese or chocolate factories.
The scenic route around the Cape Wineland region takes in a number of quaint towns and is easily explored by car or coach. Each town has its own distinct personality and any tailor-made holiday to South Africa should include a visit to at least one, or all of them.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is South Africa's second oldest town. It is renowned for its splendid Cape Dutch architecture and charming oak-lined streets. It's also the starting point of a major wine route, which encompasses twenty glorious estates and wineries within a concentrated radius. For this reason, it is included in the itinerary of most tailor-made South African holidays but its wonderful alfresco cafes and great shopping facilities do not disappoint the casual visitor either!
Franschhoek
From Stellenbosch, the tiny town of Franchhoek is reached by a picturesque mountain route. This scenic road is one of the most beautiful drives in South Africa. Travel along the twisting, winding Helshoogte Pass (with its endless mountain vistas) and arrive in the town just in time for lunch! Franschhoek is famous for its fabulous restaurants and you can dine on wonderful food while enjoying panoramic views over the valley and the pass.
Paarl
Paarl - "the pearl of the Cape" - is home to the original Afrikaans language and the largest of the towns in the Winelands. Nederburg - South Africa's best known wine estate is located in Paarl, but over and above the obvious choice of wine-tasting, there are a host of other activities to try. The mountains around the area are a designated nature reserve and there is a network of hiking and horse riding trails, as well as fly fishing facilities and some of the best golf courses in South Africa. Travel companies offering balloon flights and helicopter rides can treat you to a birds-eye view of the region that will take your breath away.
If you are planning a luxury holiday to South Africa, you will definitely not be disappointed by the Winelands. But whatever your priorities, while you travel South Africa, you will be embraced by the magic of this wonderful country - and as you explore the Cape Winelands, you will be entranced by the history, amazed by the food and wine, and warmed by the hospitality.
Source: Ezine ArticlesSouth Afican Wine Estate Accommodation
South African Wine Ratings
The accepted rating methodology uses a scale of 0 to 100. Bouquet and palate are each rated out of 33, finish out of 10 and the overall impression out of 24. According to this rating system, a wine rated in the upper 90's is considered to be exceptional. Those below 80 are poor and the wines below 75 are unacceptable. In some cases, the wine tasters can detect the potential that the particular wine has to mature. These are granted an A+ as they are not suitable for judgement until they have reached their potential. This provides a fairly objective perspective, however, and does not take the occasion, setting or mood of the drinker into account.
South Africa and, in particular, the Western Cape is considered to be one of the top wine producers in the world, ranking 9th overall in terms of quality and diversity. As a country, SA exports large volumes of its prime produce. It is also possible for private buyers to purchase the full variety of South African wines online.
South Africa is most renowned for its impressive array of white wines. These are also then used to distil brandy, which is another well-rated product from the South African vines. The majority of the grapes planted n SA are Chenin Blanc / Steen, followed by Sauvignon Blanc. Top red wines, according to international rating standards, are the Shiraz / Syrah, Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon. Some of the highest rated wines in the world come from the little wine-farm regions of Paarl and Stellenbosch, both in the Western Cape.
South African wines that have achieved top ratings include Rustenberg John X Merriman 2005 (91), Rustenberg Chardonnay 2007 (91), Warwick Estate Professor Black Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (90), Glen Carlou Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 (90), Southern Right Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (90), Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2008 and Fairview Viognier 2007. The top South Africa wine farms have been rate as being Kanonkop Estate, Vergelegen, Rustenberg Wines, Thelema Mountain Vineyards, Jordan Vineyards and Springfield Estate.
South Africa has also been internationally rated as having some of the best quality budget wines in the world, according to The Wine Enthusiast, 2009. The Good Hope Chenin Blanc was considered to be top of the wines in this category. The 2008 Wall St. Journal selected only eight wines from all over the world to qualify in their "Delicious" category, of which South Africa's Vinum African Chenin Blanc was one.
Clearly then, South Africa is a major key player in terms of winemaking, and is set to etch its ever-more powerful mark in the global market.
Source: Ezine Articles
A Guide To South African Wine
South Africa is a relatively new player in the international wine world, but is increasingly producing better wine through the years. It is good at producing wine which represents good value for money whether it be a table wine or a fine wine that you are looking for.South Africa is classed as ‘New World’ but the wine that it produces is far from that. In fact it seems to bridge the gap between ‘Old World’ and ‘New World’ styles making the product that it produces one of great interest to anyone who has a passing interest in wine. Add to this a selection of grape varieties that are not found in the other wine producing nations and you can benefit from a whole range of unique wine.
Red wine is something that South Africa seems to be attracting a lot of attention for – Pinotage is one such variety which produces a red wine that is earthy and has a savoury taste to it – a unique take on red wine.
The most well known regions for wine production in South Africa are: Stellenbosch; Constantia; Paarl; and Walker Bay
Stellenbosch is close to Cape Town and is in fact the country’s largest wine growing area. The vineyards are surrounded by mountains and the town is a university town. It is a very picturesque place – ideal in fact for wine touring. Within this area there are several different regions but in general the east is known for the red wine, whereas the sandstone areas in the west are responsible for the whites.
Constantia is a region which is tucked away in one of the Southern suburbs of Cape Town. This area was one of the first regions planted with grapes and hence has a pedigree for producing high quality wine.
Paarl is North West of Cape Town and is traditionally home to white wine production. However in recent years it has diversified into red wine territory. This has been due to the climate here which is similar to a Mediterranean climate and therefore well suited for growing all types of grape. The vines here are grown on slopes and the vineyards that produce the best wine are those situated further up the slope.
Walker Bay is a cool climate region and it therefore famous for producing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. This region is the one to look out for especially as the wines that are currently coming out of here are somewhat unique in taste and could just be the next big thing
For a great range of South African wines, or just to browse wine in general, it is a good idea to consult an independent online wine retailer. You can browse wines in your chosen price range, and you can research before you buy.
Source: Article Base
Wine Estate Accommodation
South Africa's Top Attractions - Cape Wineland
The Winelands are the largest wine producing region in South Africa and it produces some of the finest New World Wines. The Winelands are divided into a number of regions and the 6 largest are Stellenbosch, Constantia, Franschhoek, Paarl, Robertson and Wellington.
Stellenbosch is perhaps the most famous of these regions and you may recognise some of the names produced here including Boschendal, Delheim, Delair, Spier, Saxenburg, La Motte, Chamonix and Cabriere. The village of Stellenbosch itself is a wonderfully charming village which was the second settlement founded in in the Western Cape by European settlers.
In the Constantia Valley you'll find some of the oldest wine estates in the Western Cape and home to a number of award winning wines and restaurants. Historically, this area is famous for is sweet dessert wine, sold under the name Constantia, but today there is more variety. Most of the vineyards in the area offer wine tasting and tours so a visit to Constantia Valley is never a dull experience.
Franschhoek Valley wine was first settled by French Huguenots over 300 years ago. The Mediterranean like climate proved to be perfect for the growing of the vines they had brought with them. The other regions, Paarl, 3rd oldest settlement and largest town in the Western Cape; Robertson, a town which experimented with ostrich and stud farming but seems to have settled with grapes; and Wellington, in addition to grapes also grows citrus fruit and has a strong brandy industry as well; are all equally interesting places to visit.
Source: Ezine Articles
South Afican Wine Estate Accommodation
Oh the Joy of Sparkling Wines
Sparkling wine is called sparkling because of those sweet, delightful little effervescence bubbles which are created by trapping carbon dioxide. Sparkling wine is usually the preferred one for special occasions and celebrations. This is probably attributed to the fact that those tiny little bubbles appear to be having their own fun dancing merrily around in your fluted glass. It is difficult to describe the flavor and texture to someone who has never had the pleasure of tasting and feeling it as it is a complete and delightful amazing mystery to most.
When you first open a bottle, the carbon dioxide aroma instantly fills the air is an experience that you have to both smell and see to believe. Sparkling wine is a true feast for all of your senses, and can instantly make any occasion a special celebration. Drinking it is pleasurable which brings several different nutty flavors to your taste buds. Similar to the beauty and elegance of the finest diamonds, it emits a truly splendid aura and romance that makes it immediately distinguishable.
Champagne is indeed a sparkling wine made from the highest quality of grapes, using the highest quality of processing method created hundreds of years ago. Sparkling wines that are labeled champagne can only come from Champagne a small region in northern France. There is a definite and distinct difference between many sparkling wines and champagne because of both the quality and the processing method used to make champagne is extremely complicated. Today there are many wonderful and nice tasting sparkling wines made by several different reputable wineries from quality grapes using the traditional, champagne-like method.
However, there are some also a wide variety of sparkling wines that are made from poor quality grapes and fermented though quick, bulk processing methods and distributed around the world for quick profits. They tend to be sweeter with additional sugars added in to offset the poor quality in grapes and processing. They are pretty easy to spot as they usually are sold at a much lesser price. They do not reflect the original quality because they are not made using the classic champagne-making process. Some people have commented that champagne gives them headaches; but this could be caused by drinking a cheap bottle of sparkling wine that has been made with poor processing standards.
Sparkling wine was first discovered in France by Dom Perignon, who was a monk in the Champagne region. There are many variations of this story, but it appears true that he actually stumbled upon champagne while performing his duties in the Benedictine Abbey. Initially Dom Perignon’s sparkling wine wasn’t popular at first, but it grew to become very popular over the years and today has grown into a multi-billion dollar business. Dom eventually became the chief wine-maker at the abbey and over the many years, perfected the champagne fermenting process until his death in 1715. Once the French people and others tried this amazing sparkling wine, they became immediate and lasting fans. From then on, it didn’t take long for Dom Perignon to become an important legend to come from the rich and cherished wine-making history of France.
The formula and techniques that Dom used to produce sparkling wine eventually become known as the traditional way of making Champagne, called (Methode Champenoise) which includes a second in-bottle fermentation process. The process is still used throughout the world today, producing some of the best sparkling wines. Even though they may be made in various locations, many are in agreement that the best place remains the Champagne region of France, the original birthplace and the first beginning and introduction to the world. There are many, fabulous sparkling wines that come from this region at surprisingly affordable prices. If you have never tasted a sparkling wine or have never experienced one that you enjoy, try a higher quality or even sample the original Dom Perignon. Buy to a higher standard at a price that you can afford, as the quality varies greatly.
These days, bubbly wine is an essential ingredient for celebrations and events. With most celebrations it is the only one of choice for special occasions. There are many wineries that can manufacture high quality sparkling wines, although many prefer the original and still the best, Dom Perignon. No matter what the future of wine will be sparkling wines will always be a popular choice. It remains the wine that marks celebrations, and helps memorable events come to life. From its truly unique and breathtaking taste to its amazing look and splendid aroma, sparkling wine has the appeal and the flavor to keep people celebrating and enjoying life today and for future generations.
Located just 45 minutes drive away from Cape Town the winelands offer stunning scenery alongside mountain views and traditional homesteads. Boutique hotels and quaint guest-houses provide the ideal base in which to explore the region whilst the Mediterranean climate helps create some of the incredible wines of the region.
The scenic town of Paarl may be known for its brilliant wines, with Nederburg, Seidelberg and Laborie to name but a couple, however, it is also an incredible holiday destination with many activities to suit young and old alike. The town is the third oldest in South Africa and therefore boasts its fair share of historic moments from visits by Charles Darwin to Drakenstein Prison where Nelson Mandela started his walk to freedom. On your travels in South Africa be sure to visit the Afrikaans Language Monument which proudly stands at the top of Paarl Mountain, as it was here that the foundations for the Afrikaans language were laid.
If you've taken the children with you on your Southern Africa holidays then there is plenty for them to do in Paarl, especially the more adventurous! Paarl is home to a snake and crocodile farm, but if both of those options are a bit scary for your little ones then you'll be pleased to note that there is also a butterfly farm located nearby. The town boasts an impressive 23 wine estates and whilst Shiraz is the main vinter a number of other wines including Malbec have recently started to perform well and should be sampled on your luxury African holidays.
Many of the wine estates also have other attractions including adjoining restaurants serving dishes and tapas to compliment their beverages. One of the key highlights of your southern Africa holiday is bound to be enjoying a glass of Shiraz fresh from the keg whilst nibbling on charcuterie items and looking out at the lines and lines of freshly manicured vineyards.
Paarl is also known for its beautiful walking and trekking routes and these are a great way to burn of all those extra calories gained from eating the rich meats and cheeses of the Wine Estate Kitchens. The Limietberg is probably one of the most famous trails, but by far the most enjoyable is the Wine Hiking Trail offered by the Laborie Estate. This trail combines a spot of bird-watching with talks of horticulture and viticulture and like all good wine tours there is bound to be loads of opportunities to sample the produce.
Rachel Hill is a Southern Africa Travel specialist, a company specialising in luxury, tailor-made luxury African Holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.
Source: Ezine Articles
Wine Estate Accommodation
