The Paarl Valley (Pearl Valley) was first farmed by Dutch settlers in the late 17th Century. Today it is known for its exceptional wineries and as the headquarters of the KWV, the largest wine cooperative in the country. Our tour begins with a visit to Fairview Estate on the Southern slopes of Paarl Mountain. Winemaker Charles Back's friendly riposte to the European Union's insistence on authentic nomenclature has resulted in the world famous "Goats Do Roam" range of delicious estate wines. And to complement the wines, we sample the full range of farm-made cheeses for which this winery is equally renowned.
Our second stop is at Rhebokskloof Estate at the Western end of this beautiful valley, where the dainty Rhebok antelope still roam. The winery is tucked away amongst huge boulders of granite, estimated to be over 450 million years old. The vintages, while impressive, are more recent! Of particular note are the Merlot (Michelangelo International Gold for the 2000) and the Cabernet Sauvignon (Michelangelo International Silver for the 2000). We proceed through the Berg River Valley to Franschhoek, where lunch is booked at the famous La Petite Ferm restaurant and winery with its unsurpassed views of the valley. Over lunch, owner and winemaker Mark Dendy-Young leads us in a wine/food pairing where we sample, amongst others, his Chardonnay, Shiraz and Semillon. We return to the city after a long and languid afternoon! Notes: Our tour price includes all entrance fees to the vineyards, wine tastings, transportation, guide, pick-up and drop-off at their Cape Town hotel, however lunch is to own account
Also see tour packages in: Africa South Africa Local Culture Food & Wine Email it to a friend: Click here to email this vacation to a friend |
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