Images: Robertson Wine Valley
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SAVE THIS: The Essential Robertson Wine Valley Map
The Robertson wine valley is a pocket of vineyards along the Breede River in among the towns of Robertson, Montagu, Bonnievale, McGregor and Ashton. About a 2-hour 30 min drive from Cape Town, the region is teeming with vineyards, winemakers and good old fashioned Cape hospitality.
1. Robertson is the home of South African Chardonnay
The soil and aspects of the Robertson region has made it the home of great South African Chardonnays. Perhaps you’re not much of a Chardonnay fan? Well, that’s ok because in Robertson there are countless styles to suit any taste.
Springfield Estate
With an approach to winemaking that is as natural as possible, Springfield produces two excellent chardonnays – Wild Yeast and Methode Ancienne Chardonnay.
De Wetshof
This award winning wine estate produces no less than 6 different Chardonnays, each with her own personality and character. Visit the estate to taste the bright freshness of the Bon Vallon or the pure fruit of the Limestone Hill unwooded Chardonnay.
Weltevrede
Weltrevrede is a family owned and operated estate with a strong community feel. Producing Chardonnays in both friendly, accessible styles such as the Vanilla Chardonnay and also the Place of Rocks, a chardonnay in a more traditional french style.
2. If you love MCC, you will love Robertson
Following on from the strong dominance of Chardonnay vines, it is only natural that Robertson also produces some excellent Methode Cap Classique (MCC) wines.
Paul Rene
This boutique MCC winery produces delicious wines, that display both a sophistication and a freshness that is just irresistible. Don’t miss this farm on your tour of the valley!
Graham Beck
A powerhouse in MCC, Graham Beck in Robertson produces a large collection of wines that are known for their incredible quality. The estate also supplies Chardonnay grapes to their sister estate, Steenberg in Constantia, so you can be sure that these wines are from MCC pedigree.
Bon Courage
Hand made MCC from beginning to end, the Jacques Bruere range is elegant, fruit driven and delivers a luxurious mousse from extended yeast contact. The kind of MCC you could drink all day.
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3. Some of SA’s best fortified wines and brandies are from Robertson
Windfall Wines – The Hunter potstill brandy
Produced from 100% chenin base wine, The Hunter is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 6 years. A rich amber colour, the brandy has hints of fynbos and pear on the nose and palate.
Tanagra
A prolific producer of wine-based spirits, Tanagra has created a catalogue of eau de vie that offers something for everyone. Grappa’s are produced from Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes, from the neighbouring Springfield wine production. The fruit based spirits are from local organic fruit such as quince, apricot and lemon – what a delicious way to end off any meal.
Bon Courage
Bon Courage earns a second mention on our list for their award winning muscadels.
The white muscadel, from Muscat de Fontignan and fortified with brandy spirits, delivers bright fruit and a balanced sweetness. The perfect companion for a winter wine by the fire!