When you think of wine country you probably think of Napa Valley in California.  However, after visiting the Boschendal Wine Farm you may change your mind.

South Africa has an expansive and vibrant wine scene.  Plus, unlike what you’ll find in Napa, the wines here are reasonably priced.  And you know what that means.  More wine for everyone!

In addition to delicious and affordable vintages, the South African wine region boasts some of the most beautiful wineries in the world!  And Boschendal is certainly one of them.  Here are just a few reasons why visiting the Boschendal Wine Farm is a must.

The Property

Founded in 1685, Boschendal is one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa.  However, it wasn’t until 1976, when the property was opened to the public, that it started to become an icon of the wine region.

Set in the Drakenstein Valley, the property is surrounded by breathtaking mountains, lush rivers, and pristine lakes.  Walking the vast grounds you’ll encounter quaint white buildings with green shutters, tree-lined avenues, expansive parks and gardens, and fascinating works of art.

Venture into the Boschendal Manor House for a wine tasting and you’ll marvel at the vintage chic interior.  One room that really struck me was a sitting area with powder blue walls accented by the gold signatures of previous estate family members.  It was the perfect backdrop to enjoy some of their award-winning wines.

Having just come from the rugged beauty of the Gondwana Game Reserve, I wasn’t sure how anything could compare.  But Boschendal’s breathtaking allure quickly won me over.

The Accommodations

A number of renovated cottages offer guests a relaxing respite from their hectic everyday.  These include the Clarence, Rhodes, Trout, Orchard, and Werf cottages.

I was fortunate to stay at one of the Orchard cottages and was blown away by its simplistic style.  A country feel with contemporary flair, the interior instantly put me at ease.  White walls were given life with pops of bold colored accents, light fixtures were made from old Mason jars, and bathrooms with clawfoot tubs begged for a relaxing soak.

I could stay here forever.

Out on the veranda, grapevines crawl over the pergola and the tree-lined lawn led to a large fire pit (perfect for roasting marshmallows!)

And the pool.  Oh, the pool!

The Orchard cottages enjoy their own private oasis overlooking the rest of the property.  The small, circular watering hole offers a serene escape that’s perfect for reading, conversing, or just taking a nap.  (And let’s be honest, is there anything more fantastic than sleeping with the warmth of the sun on your skin?  I don’t think so!)

The Wine

While at Boschendal, a wine tasting is a must!  With flavorful vintages that are as intriguing as they are delicious, it’s easy to see why Boschendal regularly wins so many awards.

Before our tasting began, we were shown how to use a saber to open a bottle of champagne.  So guess who has a new party trick…

Then it was on to wine tasting inside the Manor House.  We were given five of Boschendal’s most lovely vintages, expertly paired with taste-enhancing morsels.

My absolute favorite was the Jean Le Long chardonnay.  Now, understand I’m far from a wine snob.  Consequently, when I taste something I either love it (“Oh!  I could drink a whole bottle of this!”) or I hate it (“Bleh!  This tastes like gutter water with a hint of bike tire!”)

But even with my undiscerning palate, I could still taste the crisp lemon and nutty almond in the Jean Le Long.  It was fresh, complex, and all-together wonderful.

It also happened to be one of the more expensive bottles available.  Naturally.

With price points hoveringh around 140 South African Rand (or $11.50), even Boschendal’s most expensive bottles are still very reasonable.

The Food

Now, what I may lack in a palate for wine, I make up for with my love for food.

And at the Boschendal Wine Farm, their culinary creations blew me away!  Because of their commitment to sustainability, the estate produces farm fresh vegetables and raises its own meats.  Because I’m a pescatarian (meaning the only animals I eat are fish), I obviously didn’t partake in the meaty side of the menu.  But I can attest to the rest of the cuisine’s excellence!

And the best way to sample Boschendal’s food?  At one of the farm’s adorable eateries!

The Werf is Boschendal’s flagship restaurant, located in the property’s original cellar.  With an eclectic menu of contemporary farm-to-table meals, The Werf has quickly established itself as a foodie destination in the winelands.

Another way to enjoy Boschendal’s delectable dishes is at one of their picturesque picnics.  Tickling your tastebuds outside in the fresh floral breeze is an exquisite treat for all your senses!

The Activities

Obviously Boschendal offers some spectacular wine tastings so you can try their award winning vintages.  However, there’s much more to do on the sprawling property than simply eating and drinking.  Although, let’s be honest, those are definitely highlights.

In addition to tantalizing your tastebuds or partaking in one of the many tours, you can enjoy a number of outdoor activities as well!  Horseback riding through picture perfect vistas, fishing at one of the many lakes, strolling through bloom-filled gardens, mountain biking along winding trails, and star gazing to marvel at the infinite number of heavenly bodies.

Or, simply kick back and relax!  Lounging at the pool, reading in the gardens, or watching the world go by with a great glass of wine makes for a perfect afternoon escape.

Visiting the Boschendal Wine Farm is an experience like nothing else.  The moment you set foot on the property your stress melts away and you’re left with with a soothing calm that stays with you long after you depart.

It’s a relaxing retreat you can’t miss on a South African adventure!

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