Breedekloof Wine Valley: 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Home of Chenin Blanc
Welcome to the Breedekloof Wine Valley, one of the youngest wine routes in South Africa, nestled in the heart of the Western Cape, South Africa. This valley is a wine lover’s paradise, boasting 27 wine cellars that range from Coops, Wine Estates to Boutique Cellars. The Breedekloof Wine Valley is one of three wine districts in the Breede River Valley, and it represents 14.24% of wine grape vineyard plantings in South Africa.
The Breedekloof Wine Valley is a place where the old meets the new, where the traditional wine-making techniques are fused with modern technology to produce some of the finest wines in the world. The valley is home to some of the most beautiful vineyards in the world, and the breathtaking scenery is sure to leave you spellbound.
Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just someone who enjoys a good glass of wine, the Breedekloof Wine Valley has something for everyone. From the world-class vineyards and wineries to the top-notch accommodation and restaurants, this valley has it all. So come with me as we explore this wine lovers’ gem. But first we need to understand as to why the Breedekloof is so unique for wine producing.
What makes the Breedekloof Wine Valley Unique for Winemaking?
The Breedekloof Wine Valley is a wine lover’s paradise, and it has its own unique terroir that sets it apart from other wine regions in South Africa. The valley is seamed by two mountain ranges, and nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Klein Karoo, which allows for a unique combination of a cool coastal and continental climate.
The Breedekloof Wine Valley has a Mediterranean climate with approximately 980mm rainfall per year. Winters are cold with snow until late in spring. Temperatures during spring are low resulting in slower ripening. Harvest usually starts 2-3 weeks later than other wine areas. The cool climate allows the grapes to ripen slowly and retain acidity and flavour.
The rocky terroir of the Breedekloof Wine Valley is defined by the Slanghoek mountains, which give the Slanghoek valley its own unique terroir.
The Breedekloof region produces one-third of South Africa’s exquisite Chenin Blanc wines, a versatile and expressive grape variety that can range from dry to sweet, still to sparkling, and fresh to complex.
The region is known for its diverse range of soils, from weathered sandstone and granite to alluvial and clay, that impart different characteristics to the wines.
It has a rich history of winemaking, dating back to the mid-19th century, with many family-owned farms and generations of winemakers. Some of them have formed the Breedekloof Makers, a collaborative group that showcases the region’s potential through innovative wines.
In this blog post, I will share with you my top 5 favourite wine farms in the Breedekloof Valley, where you can enjoy the scenic views, the warm hospitality, and the superb wines. Let’s get started!
First Stop: Du ToitsKloof Wine Cellar & Ou Meul Bakery
If you are a wine lover, you should not miss the opportunity to visit Du Toitskloof Cellar, one of the most renowned and respected wine producers in South Africa. Established in 1963, Du Toitskloof has been making quality and affordable wines for over half a century, with a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
As one of the first Fairtrade accredited producers in the country, Du Toitskloof has been supporting more than 3000 people through various projects that improve their education, health, and livelihoods.
But Du Toitskloof is not only about the people, it is also about the wine. Du Toitskloof is one of the biggest producers of Sauvignon Blanc in South Africa, a versatile and expressive grape variety that can showcase the diversity of the terroir and the climate.
At their tasting room, you can embark on a Sauvignon Blanc journey and discover how one cultivar can have so many different expressions, just by applying different winemaking techniques. You can taste everything from fun and fizzy bubbles to serious and structured wines, and marvel at how the soil, the sun, and the wind can influence the final product in your glass.
Before you head to the tasting room, you might want to grab a bite and a drink at the Du Toitskloof – Ou Meul Bakery, a popular farmstall and café that offers freshly baked goods, quality food, and local products. You can indulge in one of their famous pies, breads, croissants, muffins, cookies, and more, or enjoy their free-range chicken, pure beef burgers, and freshly pressed juices. You can also browse their shop and find some local produce and crafts to take home with you.
Du Toitskloof Cellar is a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the wine and the people. It is a place where you can experience the history, the culture, and the passion of the Breedekloof Wine Valley. So don’t hesitate and book your visit to Du Toitskloof Cellar today.
A Breedekloof Wine Valley Gem: Jason’s Hill Private Cellar
For our second stop, we will visit Jason’s Hill, a hidden cellar with a chest full of treasures. Jason’s Hill is a family-owned winery in the Slanghoek Valley, one of the most beautiful and secluded wine regions in South Africa. Surrounded by mountains and rivers, the winery offers a unique and unforgettable experience for wine lovers.
At Jason’s Hill, you can taste their award-winning wines, from the classic Chenin Blanc to the creative blends, and learn about their history and achievements. Did you know that Jason’s Hill is named after a shepherd who used to herd his sheep on the farm? Or that they have won prestigious awards like the Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year and the Woman Winemaker of the Year? That’s impressive, right?
You can also enjoy their cheese platters, chat with their friendly staff, and even hike on their challenging trail. Jason’s Hill is not just a winery, it’s a destination.
>>>To read more about Jasons Hill you can read my full review<<<
The Brand-New Tasting Room at Breeland/Marais Family Wines
Nestled among the majestic Slanghoek Mountains, Breeland / Marais Family Wines is a wine farm that has a rich history and heritage that dates back to the 1820s. It is one of the oldest farms in the region, and it was owned by Johannes Coenraad Rossouw, a visionary farmer who left a lasting legacy for his descendants.
Today, the farm is run by Lizelle Marais and her three children, who are the eighth generation of winemakers on the farm. They produce a range of distinctive and expressive wines that showcase the potential of the valley, such as the award-winning Breeland Sauvignon Blanc and the Marais Family Shiraz.
But Breeland / Marais Family Wines is not only about the wine, it is also about the experience. You can visit their cozy and rustic tasting room, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the dam, and taste their wines paired with their delicious Ploughmans Platter, which features local cheese, bread, and preserves.
Their friendly staff, who will tell you more about the history and the culture of the farm, and the stories behind their wines. I promise you will love the valley so much you want to book yourself in at their charming cottage.
Breeland / Marais Family Wines is a hidden gem that offers a delightful array of experiences for wine lovers. It is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, the authenticity of the farm, and the passion of the winemakers.
Five Reasons to visit Bosjes
Are you a foodie who loves to explore new places and taste new flavours? Then you need to add Bosjes to your bucket list. Bosjes is a farm in the Breede Valley that has something for everyone, from the architecture lover to the nature lover. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Bosjes:
- The chapel:
This is not your ordinary chapel. This is a masterpiece of design that will take your breath away. The white roof curves like the mountains and mirrors on the water, creating a stunning contrast with the blue sky. The chapel is a peaceful and elegant place where you can meditate, pray, or say “I do” to your loved one . - The restaurant and the tea garden:
If you are hungry, you are in for a treat. The restaurant and the tea garden serve fresh and delicious food that will satisfy your appetite and your palate. You can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients, such as lamb, trout, and cheese, as well as desserts, cakes, and pastries. You can also shop for local produce and crafts at the shop, or relax with a cup of tea or coffee. - The homestead:
If you want to stay longer, you can book a room at the homestead, a historic Cape Dutch building that has been renovated with modern amenities. The homestead offers luxury accommodation with spacious rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and beautiful views. You can also enjoy the swimming pool, the lounge, and the library. - The landscape garden:
If you want to explore the outdoors, you can wander around the landscape garden, which features a wide range of indigenous plants and a playground for children. You can admire the colours, the shapes, and the scents of the fynbos, the proteas, and the aloes, or have fun with the swings, the slides, and the trampoline. - The scenic location:
If you want to see more of the Breede Valley, you can take advantage of the scenic location of Bosjes. The farm is surrounded by vineyards, orchards, fynbos, and mountains, and is close to the Breede River. You can enjoy the views, the sunsets, and the stars, or go for a hike, a bike, or a kayak .
Bosjes is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, the architecture, the cuisine, and the hospitality of the Western Cape. It is a place where you can have a memorable and unique experience. So what are you waiting for? Book your Breedekloof Food and Wine Experience Tour today!!
The Breedekloof Wine Valley is not all about Wine: Welcome to Monks Gin
Breedekloof Wine Valley is not all about wine. If you are a gin fanatic, you definately without a doubt want to add Monks Gin to your list of must-visit places.
Monks Gin is South Africa’s first off-grid gin distillery. Located on the banks of the Breede River in the magnificent Breedekloof Wine Valley. Surrounded by mountains, vineyards, and blueberry tunnels, the distillery offers a unique and unforgettable experience for gin lovers.
Monks Gin produces three world-class, award-winning gins: Mysterium, Medella, and Mary Jane. Each one has its unique flavour and infusion of local botanicals.
Mysterium:
- A gin infused with fynbos and sceletium, a natural mood enhancer, creating a dry and warm gin with hints of juniper, buchu, and citrus.
Medella:
- Made with blueberries, farmed and handpicked on location, creating a whimsical and fruity gin with spicy notes of African ginger.
Mary Jane:
- This gin is steeped with hemp, slangbos, and renosterbos, creating an earthy and peppery gin with a fragrant finish of sweet citrus and fynbos.
Monks Gin is not only about the taste, but also about the history and the alchemy of gin making. The distillery was founded in 2018 by Nic and Di Davis, who were inspired by the 11th century Benedictine monks, who were the first to distil in copper alembic pot stills.
The couple built their own hybrid artisanal still, named Jennifer after Nic’s mother, and used their skills and passion for African botanicals to create their premium elixirs.
Monks Gin is a hidden gem for gin lovers who want to experience the beauty, the creativity, and the spirit of the Breedekloof Wine Valley. At the distillery’s tasting room, you can sip on gin cocktails overlooking the river on a hot summer’s day. Monks Gin is a place where you can have a memorable and unique experience, one you do not want to miss out on.
Book Your Breedekloof Wine Valley Experience TODAY!
As you can see, the Breedekloof Wine Valley is a destination that offers more than just wine. It is a place where you can experience the beauty, culture, and history of South Africa, while enjoying some of the finest Chenin Blanc wines in the world.
If you are ready to discover this hidden gem, why not book a food and wine tour with Breedekloof Food and Wine Tours?
They are the experts in creating unforgettable experiences that celebrate the rich heritage of this remarkable region. Whether you want to taste award-winning wines, savor local delicacies, or explore the stunning scenery, they have a tour that suits your preferences and budget.
Don’t miss this opportunity to visit the home of Chenin Blanc and fall in love with the Breedekloof Wine Valley. Contact Breedekloof Food and Wine Tours today and start planning your dream wine adventure!