Experience 50 Years of Wine Tourism in Stellenbosch!

Stellenbosch was the first wine region in South Africa to create a structured wine route in 1971, allowing tourists to experience the journey from vine to glass. Today, the Stellenbosch Wine Route features over 150 wineries, providing unique experiences.

This achievement reflects the dedication of three key figures in the South African wine industry: Spatz Sperling from Delheim, Frans Malan from Simonsig, and Niel Joubert from Spier.

A significant challenge in establishing this route was the absence of signage. Fortunately, a serendipitous event led Henrik Schoeman, the then-minister of transport, to approve the needed signage after getting lost during a visit to Delheim!

Delheim's Spatzendreck played a pivotal role in building an international reputation for South African wines.

Simonsig also celebrates a significant anniversary, marking 50 years since their first Cap Classique was produced. The Kaapse Vonkel Brut is a famous name in the South African sparkling wine sector. The Malan family at their vineyard has much to celebrate this year.

Founder Frans Malan introduced the first sparkling wine using the French Méthode Cap Classique in South Africa in 1971. While carbon dioxide-sparkling wines existed, it was Malan who integrated bottle fermentation, inspired by Champagne.

Spier is renowned for its wines, particularly the 21 Gables, and emphasizes the ecological and sustainable production of fruits and vegetables. Their pastures are free from antibiotics, and over a million indigenous plants have been replanted.

Spier is also committed to the Growing for Good initiative, empowering communities to enact meaningful social and ecological changes through tree-planting programs.

We can’t wait to return to visit the wonderful wineries of Stellenbosch again!