When it comes to romantic gestures, a picnic filled with good delicacies, great bottles of wine and the best company, not forgetting the beautiful mountains as your backdrop has to be one of the best ways to spend your Valentine’s Day. We have listed a few wine farm favourites to consider visiting this month.
VAN LOVEREN
Van Loveren has been in the Retief family since 1937 when Hennie Retief senior acquired the land in the Robertson Valley and named it after Christina van Loveren, an ancestor of his new bride, Jean van Zyl. When his sons, Nico & Wynand joined him on the farm they acquired more land and in 1980, 500 cases of Premium Grand Cru, the first bottled Van Loveren wine, was launched. Today Nico and Wynand’s sons are running the company side by side. Hennie and Neil are the viticulturists, Bussell the winemaker and Phillip looks after the commercial side of the business. From humble beginnings Van Loveren has grown to become South Africa’s leading family-owned winery, known for its consistency, quality and innovation.
Visit South Africa’s leading family owned winery and stroll through their lush gardens where the trees all tell their own unique story. Enjoy breakfast or lunch at Christina’s Bistro. Choose from a variety of food & wine pairings, such as; chocolate and wine, cheese and wine, charcuterie and wine, nuts, nougat and wine and even a kids tasting platter.
STEENBERG FARM
Established in 1682 as the Cape’s first farm, Steenberg is steeped with old-world-charm and the most romantic views. From the five-star service to their award winning hotel and spa, Steenberg offers calmness and serenity as a wine farm destination for couples and friends alike.
The original Manor House was restored and declared a Provincial Heritage Site with its elegance and refined comfort for our modern age. The understated luxury that exudes throughout the farm really transports you to the most romantic era. Beautifully manicured gardens with a wine tasting room that is sure to have you redecorate your home, Steenberg Farm is a full day affair.
LANZERAC WINE ESTATE
Out in historical town of Stellenbosch, the Lanzerac Wine Estate is as historic as it is romantic and beautiful. Dating back to 1692, Lanzerac is the third oldest wine farm in the area with dramatic mountain ranges as your backdrop and giant oak trees across the gardens.
The fusion of a country hotel with a wine estate saw the homestead being transformed into a manor house in 1959. Fast forward to today and Lanzerac is celebrated as a five star hotel, tantalising restaurants, a beautiful tasting venue and the most relaxing spa. The perfect weekend getaway with your loved one, Lanzerac is only a 40 minute drive out of Cape Town. Take advantage of the sunny weather and plan that staycation asap!
Be sure to check on any specials they are running this month for the same amazing experience at discounted rates.