In the picturesque valley of Franschhoek, tucked between gigantic Drakenstein mountains, you will find Allée Bleue Wine Estate. Here you will discover a unique place that’s not only one of the oldest vineyards in the Cape, it offers visitors an exciting combination of new and old, tradition and innovation, and history and modernity. If you haven’t been there yet, here’s 10 reasons why you should go:
1. The Artwork of Emil Sogor
Think untouchable grand nature combined with local heritage and the rebirth into the 20th century – a total exploration of the senses! Here you will discover real state-of-the art luxury with contemporary art surrounded by the breathtaking African nature.
2. The Bistro at Allée Bleue
You can indulge in the scrumptious food at Bistro Allée Bleue 7 days a week from 8am to 5pm. Here you can enjoy typical South African delicacies in a stylish atmosphere paired with top-class Allée Bleue wines. Most of the ingredients reflected in the menu are sourced directly from the farm. They offer candlelight dinners (only R370.00 per couple) every last Friday of the month and a Jazz Buffet Brunch at the Main Building every first Sunday of the month (R190 per person)
3. Country side picnics
Shaded by an historic oak tree, tables clothed in starched white drapery, freshly made picnic baskets are served to you from the picnic gazebo and an ice bucket ensures your Allée Bleue wine is always chilled. Menus are priced at R145.00 per person and R80 per child.
4. The Beer Garden
Sick of wine? Why not switch to beer. Open 7 days a week from 11h00 – 17h00, Allée Bleue is one of the first venues in the winelands that offer truly traditional German Beer.
5. Olives and Olive Oil
Premium olives and olive oil are obtained from the fruits of the Allée Bleue Olive trees and are available for purchase at the deli. You will also find a 1000 year old olive tree on the estate.
6. The Kendel Cottage
Make a weekend of it and stay over at the luxurious Kendel Cottage, a stylish residence in the 
middle of the estate. The cottage consist out of two en-suite bedrooms, a stylish lounge area and a veranda overlooking the vineyards. At R5900 per night you will definitely feel like royalty.
7. Wine Tasting Courtyard and Cellar tour
Sit back and relax in the magical courtyard while you enjoy the wide range of wines on tasting. You can also pre-book a cellar tour and discover the magical world of winemaking. Pre-booked cellar tours are conducted on a daily basis.
8. The scenery
Aven
ues of trees, meandering rivers and breathtaking views. The snow-white, thatched buildings surrounded by lavender bushes creates a picture-perfect setting and all you want to do is sit back, relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
9. Spot a Bridee
All white and bright and such a sight! Be sure to spot a bride when you visit the estate. Allée Bleue boasts a choice of elegant reception venues, which are sure to meet any bride’s requests and desires.
10. The MCC
The Méthose Cape Classique Brut Rosé 2009 is something truly amazing and seeing that quantities are very limited, best you get your hands on some. This proudly South African MCC consist out of Chenin Blanc and Pinotage. It’s beautiful salmon colour and pop-corny nose is something to die for and at only R89 it’s a real bargain!
