A Guide to Whale-Watching and Wine-Tasting Along South Africa’s Cape Coast

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The South African Cape Coast is a haven for nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to witness the majestic Southern Right whales traversing the coastline during whale season. But while whale-watching is undoubtedly the main attraction, visitors can also indulge in the exceptional wines produced by local estates. Here are ten wineries to add to your itinerary:

1. Whalehaven Winery: A Tribute to Nature’s Giants

Established in 1995, Whalehaven Winery is Hemel-en-Aarde Valley’s third-oldest wine producer. Named after the bay that shelters breeding Southern Right whales during the winter months, Whalehaven is renowned for its exquisite Cabernet Franc and Merlot, making it an excellent choice for whale-watching and wine-tasting.

2. Benguela Cove: A Day of Leisure and Luxury

Benguela Cove is the largest wine producer in Walker Bay, inviting visitors to enjoy platters and small meals while admiring the views of the Lagoon Nature Reserve. The estate offers premium wines, divine food, and breathtaking views, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely day out.

3. Hermanuspietersfontein Wines: A Quirky and Picturesque Gem

Hermanuspietersfontein Wines (HPF Wines) produces high-quality, terroir-driven wines with whimsical names inspired by the estate and local history. The tasting room boasts enchanting views of the region, providing a delightful addition to any whale-watching and wine-tasting itinerary.

4. Southern Right: Savor and Support

Located in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Southern Right is a small winery specializing in Sauvignon Blanc and Pinotage. The wines are named after the majestic Southern Right whales, and the winery contributes to conservation efforts with each bottle sold.

5. Rivendell Wines: A Century-Old Tradition

Rivendell Wines began in the early 1900s with a wine farm in Styria, Austria. Today, the passion for top-quality beverages continues at the 8.5Ha estate, where owners Heimo and Maria offer cellar door sales, wine tasting, and an outsourced restaurant to delight the palate.

6. Creation Wines: A World-Renowned Experience

Creation Wines offers a truly exceptional experience, having been named the fourth-place winner of the World’s 50 Best Vineyard Awards 2023. Founded by Swiss winemaker JC Martin and his South African wife Carolyn in 2002, the winery is renowned for its lavish Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, making it an unmissable destination.

7. La Vierge Winery: A Panoramic Paradise

Situated along the whale-watching route, La Vierge Winery’s B’s Stro restaurant offers incredible views and a unique menu designed to complement their wine range. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that guests can appreciate the picturesque valley while enjoying their meal and wine.

8. Newton Johnson Vineyards: An Elevated Experience

Perched in the upper region of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Newton Johnson Vineyards features striking ocean and mountain vistas. Visitors can explore the estate, visit the tasting room on the mountain slope, or dine at their on-site restaurant.

9. Restless River Wines: A Delicate and Elegant Offering

Restless River Wines boasts a distinctive wine range influenced by Walker Bay’s cool maritime climate and rare, granite-based, rocky, deep clay soils. This unique combination results in lighter and more elegant wines to savor along the whale-watching route.

10. Bartho Eksteen Wines: A Feast of Flavors

Bartho Eksteen Wines offers a delightful experience for both wine and nature lovers, situated in one of the world’s best land-based whale-watching locations. Guests can enjoy a wine tasting before indulging in a scrumptious lunch at the estate’s restaurant, Maná – Deli and Lunches.

Blend the awe-inspiring beauty of whale-watching with the exquisite flavors of the region’s finest wines along South Africa’s Cape Coast. Embark on a sensory journey, creating memories that will linger long after the last whale song has faded.

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