CAPE TOWN, DAY 4
A day drinking wine in Stellenbosch. Let me start with a disclaimer: Although I’m not known for my love of wine, I believe I am turning a corner for the red variety!
THE DOUBLE VISION KICKED IN AND WE STILL HAD 3 WINERIES TO GO
Since South Africa is a top wine producer, therefore a tour of five wineries is a must.
WHERE IS STELLENBOSCH?
SOUTH AFRICA’S WINE CAPITAL
After a horrendous brake check, we finally arrived in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second oldest town and wine capital. Moreover, there’s more than just wine here; in addition to the wine, visit Stellenbosch for its Cape Dutch architecture and to sample olive oils and vinegars.
SOUTH AFRICAN WINE…
- South Africa produces 1.2million tonnes of wine per year
- The first vines were planted in the 1650s by Dutch colonists
- From then it was requested French vines be imported and used instead
- White wine grapes make up for 55% of all grapes grown in South Africa
SELF MEASURES
TASTING LIKE A PRO
As backpackers, we confidently bluffed through the first two wineries, pretending expertise we didn’t have. Consequently, no wine was wasted, which soon proved to be my downfall.
HEADACHE
By the time we got to the 4th and then the 5th and final winery, I was completely gone, and I wasn’t the only one. Consequently, I stopped smelling for hints of blueberry and oak, as my senses were overwhelmed. Additionally, I soon became a victim to a horrendous headache, which is the reason why I don’t drink white wine.
The drive back from Stellenbosch was lively, making it easy to get to know the others on the tour.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Skipping a winery tour in South Africa is like not going to the beach in the Bahamas—it’s a must.
NEXT UP
City tour, old friends and Butter chicken, sounds like a good day! Click to read
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
118/229 Revisit
This post is part of the Southern Africa Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
Question Time
- Do you like wine?
- Have you done a wine tour?
- What is your favourite wine?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
