South Africa produces exceptional wine. Truly impressive bottles are available at prices that make it easy to explore—sometimes for as little as $5 for a solid, everyday bottle. Living here turned two committed beer fans into regular wine drinkers. We still enjoy beer, but discovering local varieties like Pinotage has expanded our appreciation for wine.
We don’t mean to declare a winner between beer and wine—they both have a place. But the quality, variety, and affordability of South African wines pushed us to try more often. The craft beer scene is growing, and we still love a good pint, yet wine has become our go-to when relaxing at home or sharing a meal.
On a recent visit with friends from the U.S., we took a day trip to Stellenbosch, one of the country’s most famous wine regions. The drive into the winelands is breathtaking: rolling vineyards, mountain backdrops, and vistas that look as though they belong in a painting. The scenery alone makes the journey worthwhile.
We didn’t follow a strict plan—signs for many estates are visible from the highway through Stellenbosch—so we made stops as we went. Our first visit was to Meerlust, a classic property known for structured reds and a welcoming tasting experience.
Friendly winery dogs greeted us and followed along as we explored the grounds—one of those charming, unplanned touches that make a tasting memorable.
The tasting area had a distinctive, rustic-eclectic decor that felt both comfortable and unique. It was the kind of space that invited conversation and lingering over glasses.
The wines at Meerlust were excellent. We purchased a 2011 Meerlust Red, and our friends chose a Pinot Noir. The tasting fee was waived with a bottle purchase, making it a great value and a perfect way to try several styles before buying.
Stellenbosch itself is delightfully picturesque and quaint. Quaint streets, historic buildings, and well-kept properties add to the region’s appeal and make wandering between estates enjoyable.
One estate we passed keeps zebras, ostriches, and antelope on the grounds, which felt very South African and made for a memorable stop. Seeing these animals among the vineyards adds a distinctive local charm.
Our final stop was Rustenberg, another respected estate. By that point I was running on an empty stomach after several tastings, so I skipped taking photos inside but enjoyed a long conversation with our guide. She patiently answered our questions about wine terminology and production—topics like what “unwooded” means, the origin of terms such as “straw wine,” and what the vintage year on a bottle actually represents. After the tasting, we strolled through the estate’s beautiful garden, which offered a peaceful end to our day.
If you have the chance to visit South Africa, make time for Stellenbosch. The scenery is stunning, the towns are charming, and the wine—diverse, high-quality, and often surprisingly affordable—makes a visit to the winelands a must-do experience.