Wine estates bring fame to the Garden Route

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Anderson Wines
Overlooking Keurbooms beach, the Robberg peninsula and the Indian Ocean, this has to be one of the most magnificent estates in Plett.

The vineyard is surrounded by fynbos and indigenous forest. It is here in this unique area that the sauvignon blanc grapes enjoy the cool sea breezes of the Indian Ocean, soft rolling mists and the warmth of the sun.

The vineyard is situated on the western side of the farm and stretches over 3 hectares. The first bottling was done in 2001 and processed and bottled at Bramon Wine Estate cellar made by winemaker Anton Smal.

Bramon Wine Estate
Pioneers of wine growing and the first wine estate in the Plett area, Bramon has laid the groundwork for many wine farms that followed in the Plett Winelands. Since their inception in 2000, this family-owned estate has shown much success in their award-winning methode cap classique sparkling wines as well as still wines. Proudly winning many national and international awards, their wines can be tasted at their tasting room, while farm-styled lunches are available in the estate restaurant.

Bitou Vineyards
Situated close to Plettenberg Bay and running along the N2 highway on the one side, bordered by the Bitou River on the other, this former polo field has been transformed into a world-class vineyard. After successful harvests came successful wines, and the future of this vineyard will add to the already highly recognised Plett Wine of Origins.

Packwood Estate
Peter and Vicky Gent emigrated from England, and while on honeymoon they fell in love with a beautiful piece of land called Packwood. The farm started with the introduction of a small herd of 100 milking cows and was soon transformed into a beautiful country estate which now is home to 950 very happy Jersey cows and 3.5 hectares of grape vineyards. This includes sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, pinot noir, and rosé. From the vine to the bottle, sip and savour these handcrafted wines with rustic farm-style platters at the Lunchbox Restaurant.

Lodestone Wine and Olives
Nestled in the foothills of the Tsitsikamma mountains, close enough to feel the sea breeze from the Indian Ocean, Lodestone has established beautiful vineyards of sauvignon blanc, semillon and Rhone-style pinor noir. At the same time, they planted an olive orchard using trees transplanted and relocated from Elgin. Six varieties of olives have been planted, all of which are being used for their olive oil production. Wines include sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, dry rosé and a new méthode cap classique. A rustic tasting area has been set up in the barn.

Newstead Lund Family Vineyards
Exceptional style, extraordinary wines and tasty farm-styled lunches are what you can expect when visiting these vineyards. Their first harvest was in 2012, and their vineyards are meticulous, prioritising quality over quantity. Newstead produces award-winning wines and methode cap classique bubbly.

Plettenvale Wine Estate
This is a true definition of the "boutique" wine estate. Owner and winemaker Gloria Strack is producing a range of crisp, delicate wines with her 3 000 pinot noir, 3 000 chardonnay and 350 syrah vines. Having matured into a fine estate, Plettenvale maintains their focus on a popular brut. It is uniquely positioned close to the trendy new Dirt Therapy Nursery, where garden treasures mingle with indigenous favourites. Guests will enjoy a visit to this glorious nursery and all its trimmings, followed by a cellar tour, wine tasting and cheese platter lunch.

Redford Lane Wines
Established in 2006 at the far end of Redford Road, this boutique-style wine farm offers unique wines, as individualistic as Lean and Brendan, the owners. Easy drinking, refreshing and made with an abundance of passion, you never rush when you stop here. As you sip and taste, you automatically soak up the beautiful, tranquil setting and relaxed atmosphere.

Pioneers of wine growing and the first wine estate in the Plett area, Bramon has laid the groundwork for many wine farms that followed in the Plett Winelands.