To help unearth some of the hidden (and some not so hidden) gems of the Stellenbosch / Franschhoek regions, Winetimes embarked on a fantastic tour of discovery as guests of the The Cape Winelands District Municipality .

Following Cape Town, Stellenbosch, which stretches along the banks of the Eerste River, is the second oldest European settlement in the Western Cape. Originally known as “Eikestad”, this town acquired its name due to the array of oak trees planted by founder, Simon van der Stel. The streets are lined with Dutch Colonial style thatched roof housing, many offering a walk through tour where you could get a feel of the days of old.

Spacious interiors (commonly measuring at least 6 metres wide) filled with memorabilia and the necessary living amenities. The clever use of shades of blue in their kitchens to deter flies, the copper extended pan holders used to warm the beds and the use of coffins, stored in the roof, as storage for flour and various dry goods to deter rats from their food, gave a fascinating insight into a forgotten way of life. Highly skilled in hydraulic engineering, the Dutch devised a system of furrows which ran from the Eerste River through the town providing running water.  Now “Stellies” is best known for being a student town boasting it’s arty cafe’s and many exhibitions however the beauty lies in the marriage between the historical and the modern, making it a great tourist destination for those from near and far.

“Living Le Good Life” is the ethos put forth from the House of J.C. Le Roux and that is exactly what they live up to. More popularly known for its sparkling wines Le Domaine and Le Fluerette, I however came across a hidden gem. Their M.C.C. Scintilla is well worth sharing the world over. The wine is proportionately blended between 75% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Noir, stabilised and bottled. The wine was matured for a further 36 months on the lees and the sediment removed by the traditional method of remuage and degorgement. The fine mousse fizz on the palate releases lemony/biscuity undertones, leaving you wanting for more!

Following liquid breakfast/lunch I would highly recommend popping in at the Devon Valley Hotel directly adjacent to J.C.Le Roux. Spectacular views as your backdrop while you enjoy your meal and perhaps take advantage of the opportunity to sample some of the wine, which they produce for their own consumption. For lunch I’d highly recommend the “Karan Rump Steak” served with Parma Ham.

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Tokara Wine Estate is situated over the pass known as “Helshoogte” and is the home to olives, and of course wine. Winemaker, Miles Mossop has the task of cultivating superb wines from the vineyard hills overlooking False Bay, where their premium range is solely sourced from (Directors Reserve White 2011/Directors Reserve Red 2008). Miles, who’s passions also include surfing and fishing, seems to have been swept away with the concept of naming certain wines after his offspring (e.g. Max Mossop). Tokara (originally Zondernaam) itself is guilty of this trend as the name originates from owner, GT Ferreira, who named the estate after his two children Thomas and Kara. On display is a variety of fine art as well as wine art, an initiative created in 2006 to encourage new and creative methods of incorporating wine experience in art.  When visiting, you can also take advantage of visiting the Olive Shed, where you can taste the various olive oils produced, visit the Deli-CAT-Essen for some delectable treats or have a luncheon to remember with the culinary skills of Richard Carstens at your disposal.

Overseas visitors seeking an authentic South African experience, will be well served by a visit to Solms-Delta! This estate epitomises the very essence of our culture from the staff who greet you to the unrivalled, authentic local cuisine produced by Chef Shaun Schoeman. Shaun was one of only three chefs recently invited to compete in an international competition in France, showcasing our Cape Malay, Khoi-San and Dutch styles of cooking. Fast on his way to becoming a house hold name Chef Shaun’s motto -“It must taste good!”- seems to be as down to earth as he himself. The cultural themed wines with names like Vastrap, Langarm and Cape Jazz (my personal favourite) are there for all to be enjoyed, and also includes cider produced from pears under their Dik Delta range. The lingering thought after leaving Solms-Delta will undoubtedly be how soon can you return.

After a day of visiting some of the wineries you love – and of course driving home is not an option – you might want to check in to Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa for a five star unwinding experience. Friendly staff greet you upon arrival as your luggage is sent to your room after check-in. The Pool area, complete with a lounge where you can access the free wi-fi on offer and comfortable seating arrangements is waiting to cool you down, especially on a hot Summer’s day.Various specials are available and a view of the Franschhoek mountains remind of you of just where you are. Of course the Camelot Spa awaits your reservation to pamper and release all that unwanted daily stress.

Segueing to part two of this tour into Franschhoek, we enjoyed dinner at the lovely French Connection Bistro. A charming bistro-style restaurant with a welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere. Chef Patron Matthew Gordon, has created a simple, yet enticing menu, guaranteed to suit all palates. Fresh ingredients and mouth-watering flavours is reason enough to have steak for dinner (Fillet Mignon) as well as lunch.

Watch this space for Part 2 which follows the uncovering of the Franschhoek region….