[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Stellenbosch Wine Route is an enchanting place where the beauty of the region and a passion for winemaking intertwine. Dotted with exceptional wineries, and a rich history that defines this renowned route, you can immerse yourself in a magical world of picturesque vineyards and warm Cape hospitality to experience the very best of South African wines.
Stellenbosch was the first region in South Africa to establish a wine route and now contains a network of over 150 wineries, each with their own, unique cellar door experiences. The wine route has five different subroutes, each with their own prominent wine styles, climates and locations: Bottelary Hills, Helderberg, Stellenbosch Berg, Stellenbosch Valley and the Greater Simonsig (where Simonsig finds its home).
Simonsig, alongside Spier and Delheim, played an integral role as the visionary founders of the Stellenbosch Wine Route in 1971. Inspired by a trip to France, where our founder Frans Malan and colleagues from the South African wine industry discovered the concept of a wine route, they knew it was the perfect opportunity to implement this idea in Stellenbosch. It was a light bulb moment that grew, and kept getting brighter, year after year with the primary focus of encouraging more people to visit farms along the route and purchasing wines directly from the cellar door.
Before the wine route, many farmers in the region primarily sold their wines to cooperatives. However, with the inception of the Stellenbosch Wine Route, there was a remarkable transformation. The route became a platform to showcase individual brands, including Simonsig.
Over the years, wine tourism has flourished, becoming a thriving industry that attracts visitors from near and far to the Stellenbosch Wine Route. What began as a vision to promote the wineries’ own brands and boost sales has evolved into a journey of wine appreciation, guided cellar tours, tastings, and unforgettable experiences. Today, the Stellenbosch Wine Route stands as a testament of cooperation in the wine industry and forms a vital part of the local economy.
As you venture along the Stellenbosch Wine Route, you’ll be greeted by a tapestry of vineyards and wineries, each with its own distinct character and offerings. From Simonsig’s historic, elegant Chenin Blanc to the award-winning wines of our fellow wineries and the renowned varietals found along this captivating route, there’s a remarkable range of wines to discover and savour.
Although Stellenbosch is renowned for its stellar wines, it is also a leading cultural, educational and leisure destination. With world-class accommodation, restaurants and activities, the options to explore are endless.
The town of Stellenbosch, around which the wine route was formed, is steeped in history. It is the second oldest town in South Africa, and some of the oak trees within the town have even been proclaimed as national monuments.
Immerse yourself in the breath-taking beauty of the region where every step unveils vistas of rolling vineyards, majestic mountains, and charming estates, creating an idyllic backdrop for your wine exploration. Take a moment to wander through the vineyards, embrace the essence of the terroir, and witness the passion and craftsmanship that go into every bottle.
Has your interest been piqued? Be sure to add Simonsig to your Stellenbosch Wine Route itinerary where we invite you to taste our range of award-winning wines and explore Stellenbosch together with us. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]