There are dozens of wine tasting experiences to choose from in Franschhoek but if we have to narrow them down to just 5, these are the wine farms that should not be missed.
1. Leeu Estate
Regarded as one of South Africa’s top wine estates, the Mullineux and Leeu Family Wine tasting experience should not be missed when visiting Franschhoek. The estate has won countless awards for its wines including having being named as Platter’s South African Winery of the Year in 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2020.
All of the estates curated wine tastings must be booked in advance and are presented by dedicated hosts to guide guests in the finer nuances of these premium handcrafted wines.
There are three tasting options to choose from on the estate including The Mullineux Signature tasting, the Mullineux Single Terroir Tasting and the Leeu Passant tasting.
2. La Motte Wine Estate
A visit to La Motte Wine Estate is so much more than a tasting experience of the farm’s multiple award-winning wines. The estate features lush, landscaped gardens where guests can enjoy a leisurely sculpture walk. Leisurely lunches can be enjoyed at the La Motte Restaurant (currently closed for renovation), there is an inviting Farm Shop and a scenic family-friendly 5km hiking trail around the estate offers breathtaking views over the Franschhoek valley. The La Motte Museum depicts the history of the estate and its owners, the Rupert family, and boasts a magnificent Pierneef art collection.
3. Mont Rochelle
Mont Rochelle Wine Estate, owned by Sir Richard Branson and situated on 39 hectares of vineyards and hills in the Franschhoek Valley, is an easy 2km walk from Maison Chablis Guest House. The estate has superb views and serves up tasty platters and affordable light meals in addition to its excellent wine tasting menu. Guests can tour the cellars or wander the well-maintained paths between vineyard plots.
4. Le Lude Cap Classique
The Le Lude Estate, which is situated only 800m from Maison Chablis Guest House, specializes in the production of world class Cap Classique. Enjoy an unforgettable Franschhoek sparkling wine tasting experience at the estate, sampling their naturally bottle-fermented premier sparkling wines. The estate’s stylish tasting room, featuring soft green paneling, is inspired by French contemporary interior design. It serves a well-presented Canape, Morning and Afternoon tea menu. Lunch and Dinner can be enjoyed at the estate’s Orangerie Restaurant, which serves sumptuous classical French cuisine.
5. Haute Cabriere
Carved into the Franchhoek mountains and overlooking the magnificent valley, the Haute Cabriere Tasting Room and Restaurant offers unrivalled views from which to sample their excellent wines. The estate specialises in the exploration of Pinor Noir and Chardonnay grapes in particular. The restaurant specialises in French cuisine with a South African twist and is skilled at providing dishes which pair expertly with the estates range of wines.
