The Wineries
Welcome to the heart of the Robertson Wine Valley, where rolling vineyards meet majestic mountains, and the Breede River whispers tales of timeless viticulture. At Wine Valley Safari, we're more than transport experts—we're your passionate guides, hospitality curators, and fellow wine professionals dedicated to unveiling the soul of South Africa's premier wine region. Our bespoke safaris whisk you through Ashton, Bonnievale, McGregor, and Robertson, ensuring seamless logistics from chauffeured pickups in our luxurious Mercedes Sprinters to pre-arranged tastings that feel like intimate family affairs.
On every itinerary, we handpick three to five estates from our cherished selection, blending family legacies, innovative pairings, and terroir-driven masterpieces. A standout among our offerings is the Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari, a customizable full-day immersion departing Monday to Saturday at R855 per person (starting price). This deluxe dive lets you curate your own adventure, selecting three exclusive experiences from five premium options—tasting 11 wines across riverside cruises, sparkling arrivals, and hands-on blending—while we handle the flawless choreography from Montagu or Robertson pickups.
Whether you're savouring unwooded Chardonnays under a canopy of ancient oaks or toasting with effervescent Cap Classiques riverside, our wineries promise experiences as layered as the wines themselves. Below, discover the gems we visit most frequently—each a testament to the valley's "Valley of Wine and Roses" moniker. Click through for dedicated spotlights, booking tips, and pairing inspirations. Ready to plot your perfect pour? Let's craft your safari.
De Wetshof Estate: Pioneers of South Africa's Chardonnay Legacy
As the first registered wine estate in the Robertson Wine Valley since the 1970s, De Wetshof Estate stands as a beacon of innovation and heritage—a Chardonnay powerhouse that's a cornerstone of our Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari itineraries. Tracing its roots to 1694 with the arrival of the De Wet family at the Cape, this third-generation gem is helmed by brothers Johann and Peter de Wet, along with their father, Danie. This trailblazing winemaker introduced Chardonnay to South African soils. Spanning prime Robertson terroir off the R317 between Robertson and Bonnievale, De Wetshof's limestone-rich vineyards yield elegant whites that echo Burgundy's finesse, with a focus on site-specific expressions like the Estate Chardonnay and complementary reds.
The intimate Private Library Tasting enchants Wine Valley Safari guests in the family-curated Wine Library, where rare vintages from the vinoteque unfold amid stories of pioneering viticulture. Picture sipping the crystalline Bone Dry Collection—crisp, mineral-laced Sauvignon Blancs—paired with estate olives for a pure terroir revelation. As professionals, we celebrate De Wetshof's global acclaim as South Africa's eminent Chardonnay House, with cellar tours (by appointment) unveiling the Golden Vine, one of the nation's oldest Chardonnay plantings. Our logistics ensure seamless integration: pre-booked slots, shaded transfers from neighbouring estates, and that effortless flow that turns a tasting into a timeless memory. It's where history ferments into every glass.
Ashton Winery: Heritage and Indulgence in the Valley's Embrace
Nestled on the sun-kissed slopes between the Breede River and the Langeberg foothills, Ashton Winery embodies the essence of Robertson's longest wine route. As a cornerstone of our safaris—and a featured stop on the Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari—Ashton captivates with its commitment to "Simply Live, Simply Love, Simply Wine." Family-owned since 1972, this 400-hectare estate produces over 100 wines, from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to robust Shiraz, all rooted in diverse micro-terroirs of clay and limestone soils.
Our guests adore the heritage pairing: four premium wines matched with traditional South African treats like biltong and rusks, evoking childhood memories with every sip. For a decadent twist, opt for the chocolate pairing—silky ganaches amplifying the fruit-forward elegance of their Chenin Blanc. As wine professionals, we appreciate how head winemaker Nadine Livingstone balances accessibility with complexity; her vintages have scooped multiple Veritas golds. Pro tip: Pair a lazy estate picnic with their MCC for an afternoon that lingers like the valley's golden light. Book via our safari for exclusive access—logistics handled, glasses raised.
Springfield Estate: Wild Yeast Wonders and Huguenot Heritage
In the mountain-ringed heart of Robertson, Springfield Estate whispers of ninth-generation French Huguenot roots since 1688, when vines arrived from the Loire—a family-owned sanctuary that's a serene highlight on our Bonnievale-Robertson loops and the Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari. Guided by the motto "Made on Honour," the Bruwers employ a hands-off philosophy, letting diverse soils express themselves in minimal-intervention wines like the iconic Wild Yeast Chardonnay—fermented with native yeasts in underground cement tanks for vibrant, unwooded purity that ages gracefully for 3-4 years.
Our safaris elevate the informal tastings (R100 for five wines, no booking needed for small groups) with garden picnics amid lush ponds and manicured lawns, where floral Viogniers dance with estate olives. Cellar tours, free and insightful (weekdays only, book ahead), reveal the 1902 gravity-flow cellars—no pumps, just pure terroir. Wine enthusiasts geek out over the biodiversity and restraint; it's Chardonnay without compromise, rivalling the valley's limestone legends. As hospitality experts, we sync shaded arrivals and group flows, ensuring your visit unfolds like a well-aged vintage—effortless and eternally rewarding.
Bon Courage Estate: Timeless Elegance Amidst Floral Splendor
A beacon of understated luxury, Bon Courage Estate in Robertson is where old-world charm meets modern mastery— a perennial favourite on our Bonnievale-Robertson loops and a sparkling highlight of the Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari. Established in 1810 by French Huguenot descendants, this 120-hectare haven boasts century-old vineyards yielding Pinotage and Chardonnay that sing of their limestone lineage. The estate's rose gardens and Cape Dutch homestead set a romantic stage, perfect for couples or contemplative connoisseurs.
Wine Valley Safari guests rave about the innovative tastings: from wood-fired oven pairings to the "Sweet Escape" with fortified wines and artisanal cheeses. Standouts include the restrained yet opulent Bon Courage Chardonnay Reserve—elegant notes of white peach and flint that rival Burgundian benchmarks. Hospitality shines here; owners Hennie and Wilma de Wet personally guide select tours, sharing stories of drought-defying resilience. As logistics pros, we seamlessly integrate Bon Courage into half-day safaris, complete with shaded transfers and chilled arrivals. It's not just a visit; it's a love letter to the valley's floral soul.
Van Loveren Family Vineyards: South Africa's First Fairtrade Vineyard
Pioneers in ethical winemaking, Van Loveren Family Vineyards near Overberg Bridge is a must on every extended safari, blending social impact with sensory delight—and a bubbly beacon in the Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari. As South Africa's inaugural Fairtrade-certified winery (since 2010), this 300-hectare estate in the Overberg region donates premiums to community upliftment, from education to housing—values that resonate deeply with our socially conscious travellers.
Vineyards thrive on alluvial soils, birthing vibrant Chenin Blancs and spicy Pinotages that capture the valley's cool-climate finesse. Our bespoke pairings feature the Crane Cabernet Sauvignon with estate-grown charcuterie, a harmonious nod to the on-site cranes that inspired the label. Wine professionals will geek out over the solar-powered cellars and biodiversity initiatives. Fun fact: Van Loveren's bubbly flows on SAA flights, a testament to its global polish. We handle the choreography—vintage Kombi arrivals, private tastings, and eco-friendly transfers—ensuring your day flows as effortlessly as their flagship wines.
Viljoensdrift Wines: Riverside Serenity and Sensory Adventures
For a dose of poetic tranquillity, Viljoensdrift Wines on the Breede River's banks is our go-to for immersive, water-kissed escapes, serving as the ultimate sip-and-sail star of the Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari. This family-owned gem in Robertson, helmed by the fifth generation, spans 200 hectares where river breezes temper the summer heat, coaxing elegant Semillon and Shiraz from gravelly terroirs.
Wine Valley Safari elevates the experience with riverside cruises: glide aboard a custom boat while sampling the flagship Viognier—floral and stone-fruited, with a whisper of minerality. Deli picnics follow, laden with estate olives and cheeses that mirror the wines' purity. Guests often cite the "Taste Adventure" as a highlight, where multi-course pairings unfold against mountain backdrops. As hospitality experts, we curate these moments for intimacy, from sunset sabrages to yoga-in-the-vines add-ons. Logistics? Our fleet ensures prompt riverside pickups, turning potential hassles into harmonious highlights.
Excelsior Wine Estate: Bold Flavours from a Storied Legacy
Dating back to 1872, Excelsior Wine Estate in Robertson is a powerhouse of tradition and tenacity—a staple for our full-day safaris seeking depth and drama, and the blending atelier of choice in the Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari. Owned by the Jonker family (no relation to Weltevredde's lineage, but equally storied), this 200-hectare spread overlooks the Breede, its old-vine Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay drawing from iron-rich soils for brooding intensity.
Tastings here are theatrical: the "Winemaker's Collection" pairs rare vintages with biltong platters, revealing layers of blackcurrant and cedar in their flagship wines. Wine enthusiasts appreciate the estate's Calcrete Chardonnay commitment—a crisp, unoaked expression of Robertson's chalky terroir. Our safaris include behind-the-scenes cellar tours, where you witness riddling in action for their acclaimed MCC. With our transport prowess, we sync visits flawlessly and offer shaded lounges post-tasting. Excelsior isn't just wine; it's a bold chapter in the valley's epic.
Graham Beck Robertson Estate: Bubbles of Distinction in Karoo Splendour
Perched along the breathtaking R62 in Robertson's Karoo embrace, Graham Beck Robertson Estate—affectionately known as Madeba—elevates our bubbly-centric safaris with world-class Cap Classiques that define South African sparkle, often paired with De Wetshof and Weltevrede in our Golden Mile Deluxe Wine Valley Safari extensions. Founded as a partner to the Franschhoek flagship, this modern haven under visionary ownership crafts méthode traditionnelle masterpieces from cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with maestro Pieter Ferreira's innovations earning international reverence.
Guests on our tours indulge in cellar tours and tutored tastings amid panoramic views, where the Brut Rosé's berry-kissed effervescence pairs flawlessly with gourmet platters or harvest-time potjie feasts. Unique thrills include safari drives and sundowners in the private Graham & Rhona Beck nature reserve, blending wine with wildlife for an unforgettable fusion. As professionals, we toast Graham Beck's pursuit of perfection—trophies from global competitions and a vinoteque of gems await. Our logistics shine: climate-controlled rides from Robertson pickups, pre-arranged VIP slots, and seamless flows that let the bubbles rise without a hitch. It's escape, elevated.
Weltevredde Wine Estate: Chardonnay's Underground Odyssey
Tucked in Bonnievale's limestone embrace, Weltevredde Wine Estate is our crown jewel for Chardonnay devotees. This transformative stop converts skeptics into superfans, frequently twinned with De Wetshof on our Chardonnay-focused routes. Fourth-generation winemaker Philip Jonker's obsession with this grape shines through in tours like "Captivated by Chardonnay," descending into atmospheric cellars for poetry-paired sips of Poet's Prayer.
The estate's 160 hectares yield ethereal, mineral-driven wines from 100-year-old vines, with Cap Classiques adding festive fizz. Guests on our safaris indulge in sabrage sessions and candlelit finales, the Blanc de Blancs' brioche notes lingering long after. As professionals, we champion Weltevrede's global nods, from Tim Atkin accolades to Great Wine Capitals awards. Our logistics ensure VIP flow: pre-booked slots, climate-controlled rides, and pairings with Kapokbos Restaurant's seasonal fare. It's satisfaction distilled—"well satisfied," as the name promises.
Silverthorn Wines: Sparkling Precision in a Boutique Haven
A sparkling sensation in the Robertson lineup, Silverthorn Wines near Robertson crafts Méthode Cap Classiques that rival Champagne's finesse—ideal for our bubbly-focused safaris. From a modest 20-hectare site, winemaker Kyle White obsesses over single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, fermenting in the bottle for 36+ months to achieve creamy, citrus-laced elegance.
Our visits feature the "Bubble Masterclass," where you disgorge your own bottle amid vineyard views. Standouts like the Satellite MCC burst with green apple and toast, perfect for post-hike toasts. Boutique scale means intimate hospitality; expect personalized flights and cheese wheels. Wine Valley Safari's touch? Seamless integration with nearby hikes, our vehicles are ready for chilled hauls home. Silverthorn proves small lots yield big thrills.
Zandvliet Wine Estate: Romantic Rusticity with a Modern Edge
Hidden in Bonnievale's folds, Zandvliet Wine Estate offers rustic romance and refined reds—a secluded gem for our custom safaris. This 100-hectare haven, revived by the Bassons in 2003, blends restored Cape Dutch architecture with cutting-edge viticulture on schist soils, birthing plush Merlot and floral Viognier.
Tastings unfold on wraparound verandas, paired with farm-fresh platters that highlight the estate's organic ethos. Guests love the "Vineyard Stroll and Sip," tracing rows to the source. As logistics mavens, we unlock after-hours access, turning private evenings into magic. Zandvliet's story of rebirth mirrors the valley's resilience—bold, balanced, and beautifully bottled.
Bonnievale Wines: Community Crafted, Valley Proud
Rounding out our Bonnievale circuit, Bonnievale Wines champions collaborative spirit in a modern cellar overlooking the river. Sourcing from 300 local growers, this co-op powerhouse delivers value-driven gems like robust Cabernet blends and zesty Sauvignon Blancs, all from the valley's alluvial heart.
Our safaris spotlight the "Co-op Tasting," where you sample small-batch experiments alongside deli bites. It's a nod to Robertson's communal roots, with wines that overdeliver on vibrancy. Hospitality meets efficiency here—quick, knowledgeable pours that fit half-day rhythms. We handle the rest: shaded parking, group bookings, and carry-home crates. Bonnievale is the valley's beating heart, pouring one glass at a time.
Embark on your Wine Valley Safari today—where every winery visit is a seamless symphony of discovery, elevated by tours like the Golden Mile Deluxe. As wine professionals, hospitality artisans, and transport virtuosos, we're here to elevate your journey. Book Now and let the valley's roses bloom in your glass.
