With so many wine bars in Stellenbosch, it can be tough to choose the right one! We’re highlighting a few of the most delicious spots in town. If you’re looking for a place where you can share a bottle of wine with friends or just enjoy some tasty food and good company, these are our top picks from the heart of South Africa’s wine country.
We’ve invited Mike Ratcliffe to show Steve Steinfeld (the Joburg Foodie) around and here is what they got up to:
Stellenbosch Wine Bar
Cnr Church and Andringa Streets
Urban pied-a-terre for farms Rust en Vrede and related brands, the Stellenbosch Wynbar opened its doors in December 2021 and immediately took its place as one of the sought-after watering holes in Stellenbosch. The Stellenbosch Wine Bar is a casual meeting place, where the focus is on wine, with some shared plates to introduce a Mediterranean way of eating and sharing food. A place where you can meet after work for a drink, a quick business lunch, a pre-dinner drink.
Insider tip: It’s a first-come-first-served set-up, so arrive early. You can order wine at cellar-door prices for delivery countrywide.
Simon Wine Emporium
Cnr Plein and Ryneveld Streets
Launched in April 2022, the Simon Wine Emporium offers a staggering 200 wines available for tasting, by the glass or bottle. Snack on delicious sharing plates while savouring some of the best wines from Stellenbosch.
Insider tip: If you like what you are drinking, head over to Simon emporium and order the wines (including mixed cases) to be delivered to your door. International deliveries now available.
Bertha Wine Bar at Meraki Café
Cnr of Church and Ryneveld street
Enter this dreamy, light-filled space for whatever takes your fancy: cakes, bakes and sublime fare from Meraki Café (open for breakfast, lunch, early dinner and aperitivo hour); or a tipple at the fabulous Bertha Wine Bar. Bertha Wines hail from the historic Stellenbosch farm, Weltevreden 1692. Named for the matriarch of the Bezuidenhout family that owns the estate. Enjoy discovering them, along with other exclusive small allocation wines and the evening menu.
Insider tip: The small plates are a must-add to enjoy with your glass of Bertha wine. Keep an eye on their socials for their ever-popular Capas Nights.
The Wine Glass
13 Ryneveld Street
The Stellenbosch shop is the flagship of the TWG group and a welcome addition to the Stellenbosch Wine Bar scene. Showcasing more than 150 wines available for tasting. The team at TWG has made a convenient selection of tasting flights, providing an introduction to wines. A delicious menu supports the spectacular wine offering.
Insider tip: The deck outside is where it is happening and you will have a front-row seat, glass in hand, drinking in the vibrant atmosphere. The Wine Glass also hosts regular winemaker dinners which is always a special experience
QBar
The DeWets Square, Church Street
Looking for a spot to enjoy relaxed afternoons or vibrant evenings, this courtyard wine bar promises and delivers on just that making any experience at QBar memorable. Enjoy world-class wines from Quoin Rock, Knorhoek, and Namysto, and feast on a delicious selection of small plates and tapas.
Insider tip: QBar offer wine tastings between 12:00 and 17:00 and the personnel is what makes this a gem and a must-visit spot when you are exploring Stellenbosch
Le Chant Wine Bar
The newest kid on the block, Le Chant is a wine partnership forged by proprietors from two proud wine-producing nations. French flair and South African determination have long been intertwined in the fabric of the Cape, a camaraderie spanning centuries, each contributing to the rich and respected fine wine legacy of South Africa. Le Chant is your new go-to spot to ring in the weekend with good company, good food & good wine.
Insider tip: Come for the wine and vibey scene and stay for the food. Chef @monchemuller made her mark on the tapas scene at the @pinkvalleywines Rosé Lounge.
Now she is excited to also bring her take on upscale bar snacks and tapas style platters to town at Le Chant Wine Bar and Stellenbosch is loving it. Go and taste for yourself.
Enoteca Le Grande Domaine
As an urban alternative to a farm visit, this Devon Valley estate’s stylish emporium on Stellenbosch’s buzzing Church Street is an atmospheric spot for aficionados (and novices) to indulge their passion, with more than 30 wines available by tasting portion, glass or bottle.
Insider tip: On weekday evenings, you can sip your chosen vino to a soundtrack of chilled singer-songwriters.
Where to stay
Linger a little longer and make the most of Stellenbosch in all its glory by staying over at the oldest running hotel in South Africa.
Oude Werf, situated in Church Street, offer a wide range of rooms and was recently renovated. When you decide to go wine bar hopping, complete the experience and book a room. All wine bars within easy walking distance makes this the perfect overnight spot. Beautifully appointed rooms and a tranquil courtyard with pool and some interesting historical discoveries. Make sure you have enough time in the morning for a lazy breakfast and a bit of shopping up and down Church Street. Book now.
Insider tip: Sit back and relax in the courtyard, sip on a gin and tonic or a glass of chilled wine as the bustling atmosphere falls away and you can take a deep breath, relax and drink in all the comforts offered by Oude Werf.
