Nestled in the heart of the Western Cape’s South Africa, Stanford is not just a destination in itself but also a gateway to an emerging wine region known as the Stanford Wine Route. Here, wineries are producing award-winning, cool-climate wines, offering a delightful wine-tasting experience in a serene and picturesque setting.
A Glimpse into Stanford: Your Wine Adventure’s Starting Point
Stanford, charmingly located on the banks of the Klein River, is about 25 km from Hermanus and falls within the Cape Whale Coast Route. This Victorian-inspired village is an undiscovered gem, situated a mere 150 km from Cape Town. Stanford’s proximity to the southernmost tip of Africa blesses it with a unique terroir, ideal for producing top-quality and award-winning wines. The region benefits from cool ripening conditions, courtesy of the strong cooling winds prevalent during the summer months. While the Stanford Wine Route is relatively small at present, with only eight members, expansion is imminent. The unique terroir of Stanford attracts new entrepreneurs, and existing producers are eager to be part of this flourishing venture.
Let’s introduce you to the current members of the Stanford Wine Route:
1. Misty Mountains Estate
Misty Mountains Estate is your first stop on the route when traveling from Hermanus on the R43. The name is inspired by the mist that often veils the mountain, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The estate, owned by Gauteng businessman André van Vuuren, established its first vineyards in 2005 and produced its inaugural vintage in 2008. With 16 hectares of predominantly Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz vines, exciting developments, including a deli, cheese factory, and microbrewery, are on the horizon. The tasting room is open six days a week, offering cheese platters and wine tastings.
https://www.mistymountains.co.za
2. Springfontein
Located south of Stanford on the opposite side of the Klein River, Springfontein is a family-inspired project. Dr. Johst Weber, the owner, purchased the farm in 1994, with a vision to create a haven for family and friends. They specialize in Chenin Blanc and Pinotage, and their terroir, characterized by the cool Walker Bay climate and limestone soils, yields award-winning wines. Besides wine tasting, the Springfontein Bar(n), promises a unique pairing experience with snacks and wine. The restaurant run by Michelin-starred chef Jürgen Schneider and his partner Suzanne are additional highlights.
http://www.springfontein.co.za/
3. Sir Robert Stanford Estate
Just a kilometer before the town of Stanford and off the R43, you’ll find Sir Robert Stanford Estate. Established in 1855, this historic estate is nestled on the southern slopes of the Kleinrivier Mountains, making it one of the oldest wine establishments in Walker Bay. The vineyards enjoy granite soils and the cooling influence of maritime breezes. Approximately 60 hectares are planted with grape varieties such as Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz.
In addition to vineyards, the estate boasts over 200 Fynbos species, abundant wildlife, and even a Biodiversity and Wine Initiative Championship award. Don’t miss a meal at Madré’s Kitchen and visits to the Stookhuis distillery or art studio while you’re here.
http://www.robertstanfordestate.co.za/Home.html
4. Stanford Hills
Adjacent to Sir Robert Stanford Estate, Stanford Hills offers stunning vistas and produces a range of wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinotage. The original farmhouse, believed to be constructed in 1855, has transformed into tourist accommodation. The Tasting Room, the farm’s restaurant and wine tasting facility, is a local favorite. It uses local organic and free-range products to create a diverse menu. The full range of estate wines is available at cellar door prices to restaurant guests. Stanford Hills is highly child-friendly, making it an ideal family destination.
http://www.stanfordhills.co.za/
5. Walker Bay Vineyards
Located just outside Stanford village, Walker Bay Vineyards is a boutique wine estate that is also home to the Birkenhead Brewery. The first vines were planted in 2003, and the estate released its first vintage Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay in 2007, followed by a red blend consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Tours of the brewery, wine and beer tastings, and a restaurant and pub with spectacular views of the Klein River Mountains are on offer.
Enjoy a picnic on the vast green lawn while watching the magnificent sunset.
http://www.walkerbayestate.com/
6. Vaalvlei
Vaalvlei is the smallest producer on the route, with just three hectares under vines. The farm, established in 2005, belongs to Naas Terblanche, a passionate conservationist and winemaker. Vineyards grow on predominantly sandstone and koffieklip soils and comprise only two cultivars: Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz. With a focus on conservation, Vaalvlei aims to protect the indigenous plants, birds, and frog species in their wetland. Naas, with his passion for the environment, not only features the endangered Western Leopard Toad on his wine labels but also hosts a permanent audiovisual display in his tasting room.
7. Raka
Raka is a family-owned cellar located up the valley on the R362. Owner Piet Dreyer bought the farm Remhoogte in 1982 and established the first vineyards in 1999. The farm is situated in a narrow valley in the Klein River Mountains, with vineyards planted on diverse soils on either side of the Klein River. Plantings include a wide variety of grape cultivars, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Shiraz, Mourvédre, Petit Verdot, Pinotage, Sangiovese, and white varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier.
Raka is a family-run concern, with Joseph overseeing the cellar, Pieter managing the farm and vineyards, daughter Jorika handling marketing, and parents Piet and Elna entertaining visitors with relics and anecdotes from their fishing industry days.
8. Boschrivier Wines
Adjacent to Raka is Boschrivier Wines, a small, family-owned wine farm consisting of two farms, Boschkloof and Remhoogte. Dr. Theodore (Ficky) de Villiers owns the farms, which are situated at the foot of the picturesque Akkedisberg Mountain range, with the Klein River running along the edge. They focus on producing a boutique Shiraz of exceptional quality and have also introduced Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon to their range. The Bosch River, running along the upper part of the farm, inspired their label.
With these eight exceptional wineries on the Stanford Wine Route, you have a delightful wine-tasting adventure awaiting you during your stay at Casa D’Italo in Stanford. Each winery offers a unique and memorable experience, making your visit to Stanford all the more enchanting. Book your stay with Casa D’Italo today, this gem is the full package, a private beach, mountain views and impeccable facilities, don’t believe us, come see for yourself! Me Casa, Your Casa Contact us here: https://www.casaditalo.co.za/contact-us/ and book your stay today.
