A Visit to De Grendel

Wine And Dine A Stone’s Throw From The Heart Of Cape Town

The Cape Winelands are a wine lover’s paradise. Sure, France and Italy are still considered the Old World – and apparently therefore the gatekeepers of what constitutes “good” wine – but unencumbered by appellations and regional processes, South Africa boasts one the world’s most diverse wine industries. Just a stone’s throw from the heart of the Mother City, De Grendel offers a truly special experience. With a history dating back to 1720 – and its subsequent purchase by Sir David Graaff, who is often credited for ushering the city of Cape Town into the 20^th century during his term as mayor, in 1891 – De Grendel has plenty to satisfy the history buffs and produces some of the Cape’s most celebrated wines. But over and above its vinicultural clout, the farm is one of the Winelands’ crown jewels on the list of top places to visit.

THE RESTAURANT

Taking his cue directly from the Estate’s winemaking philosophy, Chef Ian Bergh’s menu echoes the history and heritage of the Cape, and he uses only locally sourced, fresh produce in a menu that he updates regularly. The menu uses classic ingredients served in creative ways with an inventive, modern edge. In 2018, the estate planted an organic vegetable garden from which the restaurant sources most of its fresh produce.

MAKE A BOOKING AT DE GRENDEL’S RESTAURANT

WINE TASTINGS

Cellarmaster Charles Hopkins is one of the country’s most respected winemakers, which means a wine tasting at De Grendel – specially set up on the long veranda leading off the restaurant overlooking Table Mountain – is not to be missed. Few wineries in the Cape can lay claim to a view of rolling vineyards that lead your eye to one of the world’s most iconic sights: the city of Cape Town beneath the most famous Mountain in the world.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DE GRENDEL’S WINE TASTINGS

FARM TOURS

Few wineries provide a habitat for both vineyards and game. Besides the winery, De Grendel also hosts Springbok, Eland, Red Hartebeest and Bontebok – all of which can be seen on the farm tour during which you will be treated to anecdotes about the farm and the Graaff family.