Somerset West at a glance
Farms
Forming part of the Cape Winelands are the Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek with the honorary Somerset West Valleys. This region is home to the majority of farms that contribute to the South African wine industry. With its Mediterranean climate of cool, wet winters and dry hot summers, these towns are ideally equipped to cultivate vines and produce some of the country’s most reputed and award-winning wines.
Located approximately 50km from Cape Town, Stellenbosch is not only known for its university or student culture, but also for the marvellous farms, vineyards and cellars that can be found here. Home to some of the leading wineries, Stellenbosch farms are established and revered. With the mountainous nature reserves of Jonkershoek and Simonsberg as a backdrop and streets lined with old oak trees – it is clear to see why Stellenbosch bears the nickname of “City of Oaks”.
Some of the most recognised farms in the area include:
Beyerskloof Wine Estate
Originally named Nooitgedacht, Beyerskloof was farmed by five generations of the Beyers family until it was sold in 1895. The farm was then returned to family hands several decades later in 1988, when Beyers Truter, a direct decedent of the family, secured this location to establish a winery – becoming the sixth generation to farm this land. Today Beyerskloof shallow, gravely soil immolates that of Bordeaux – making it a prime environment for the 20 000 cabernet sauvignon and 5 000 merlot vines that are planted here.
- Simonsig Wine Estate
- Kanonkop Wine Estate
- Spier Wine Farm
- Rust en Vrede
Resting between scenic mountain ranges and positioned a mere 75km from Cape Town is one of the most beautiful wine valleys in the world. Franschhoek is also one of the oldest settlements in South Africa and is framed by vineyards and farms that ascend up the slopes that surround it. With wine estates in Franschhoek still bearing their original French names, there is a touch of enchantment to behold in this town.
Some of the most recognised farms in the area include:
Boschendal Manor & Winery
Established over three centuries ago in 1685, Boschendal is encircled by the dramatic mountain range of the Drakenstein Valley. As one of the oldest and most iconic wineries in the Cape Winelands – this farm also raises 100% pasture fed Angus cattle and plant organic vegetable gardens. Managed with sustainability in mind, Boschendal places importance on making a positive impact on the environment – implementing efforts to restore the land and continuously improving the quality of their soil.
- La Motte Wine Estate
- Vrede en Lust Winery
- Stony Brook Vineyards
- Mont Rochelle
As the third oldest settlement in South Africa, the farms in Paarl have firmly been established. 60km away from Cape Town, this lovely residential and agricultural node has long been attracting visitors and investors with its unique character and country feel, with vineyards growing between neighbourhoods. Home to nearly thirty wine cellars - the large variety of grapes, cultivated in Paarl, is renowned worldwide.
Some of the most recognised farms in the area include:
Nederburg Wine Estate
Probably one of the most recognised names in South African wine, Nederburg was founded in 1791 by Philippus Wolvaart whose original thatched roof manor house is still located on site. In 1990 Nederburg also became the first South African farm to be declared a conservation area by the National Monuments Council. Today this farm produces a total of 8 wine ranges, varying in blends and categories – winning many national and international acclaim.
- Simonsvlei Winery
- Fairview Estate
- Laborie Wine Estate
- Fairview Estate
Established in 1822, and located 50km from the City of Cape Town is Somerset West. Nestled between the beautiful Cape Winelands and False Bay, surrounded by an amphitheatre of mountains Somerset West has a large farming community and several noteworthy wine farms within its borders.
Some of the most recognised farms in the area include:
Vergelegen Estate
With the first vines being planted in 1700 by founder, Willem Adriaan van der Stel – Vergelegen Estate has since grown into a world-class wine estate. This farm boasts a total of 21 different types of soil, with some being identified as belonging to a group of the most ancient viticultural soils in the world. Original vines planted in this soil included varieties such as steendruif, frontignan , as well as white and blue muscadel - yet today the approximate 158 hectares of plantings comprise sémillon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, Malbec, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, shiraz and franc.
- Lourensford Wine Estate
- Morgenster Wine Farm
- Waterkloof Wines
- Flagstone Winery
If you are looking for a farm in one of these or other fantastic destinations, Knight Frank has a large variety of farms available to suit each and every preference. Whether you are looking for a small vineyard in the Cape Winelands or a large sheep farm in the Karroo we have it all. Contact our dedicated team of property professionals today and find the farm of your dreams today.
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