Tucked away in the most heavenly valley is a wine route that will offer you an unforgettable wine experience. The Hemel-en-Aarde area near Hermanus is one of the most popular wine routes in the Western Cape and boasts wines that are unique to South Africa and similar to that of Northern France. A fresh cool sea breeze and clay soil produce some of the most premium wines in the country. From Chardonnay to Pinot Noir, each sip is heavenly.  

Crush took a trip to this blissful corner of the Cape and we chose our favourite spots to visit and why. Here is our guide to Heaven on Earth…

 

 

 

A boutique winery based in the Hermanus region of Walker Bay, Whalehaven is a stunning winery renowned for it’s elegant and unique wines. The farm is situated in an area on the coastline that is not only a sanctuary for migrating whales, but also offers a cooler climate.  A modern, sleek interior with an exquisite tasting room adorned with clean wooden finishes. The cool space sets the scene for a relaxing, yet elegant, experience.

 

 

A luscious wine with rich aromas of fruitcake and spices, followed by smooth and rich black cherry flavours on the palate. The grapes were crushed separately and fermented in stainless steel tanks. Malolactic took place in tanks on French and American oak staves. Further maturation took place in 4th and 5th fill French, Hungarian and American 225L oak barrels for 10 months, before the wine was given a light egg white fining and filtered for bottling.

Alc: 14.5 vol%

 

A medium bodied wine with an abundance of red forest berries and tobacco on the nose. Rich, ripe mouth feel filled with raspberries and fruit pastilles. Soft, savoury tannins on the palate with a well-balanced finish. The grapes were cold soaked for 3 days before fermentation. They were then pressed and put straight into barrels for malolactic fermentation. The wine was then racked immediately and placed in mainly French (60%) and American (40%) 1st (35%), 2nd (40%) and 3rd (25%) fill oak barrels for 12 months of maturation after which the wine was lightly filtered and bottled.

Alc: 15 vol%

 

An impressive, rich medium bodied wine with dark crimson and purple hints. Aromas of prune and light tobacco on the nose, followed by seductive flavours of blackberries on the palate. The grapes were de-stemmed and lightly crushed and cold macerated for 2 days prior to fermentation. Fermentation temperatures were between 22 and 26 °C. Malolactic fermentation took place in 2nd and 3rd fill 225L French oak barrels. Thereafter the wine was matured in 50% New French oak for 12 months, after which it was lightly filtered and bottled.

Alc: 14 vol%

 

 

Whalehaven offer some very unique chocolates and jams to pair with their delicious wines. Flavours of rich chocolate and tart jams infused with hints of floral flavours make for a tasty pairing.  The chocolates and jams are produced specifically for Whalehaven winery by Golden Country in Greyton. The gorgeous packaging alone is enough to make your sensations tingle.

 

 

 

 

 

Just a few kilometres from the sea, in the picturesque Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, you may be welcomed to a charming farm called Southern Right by a troop of baboons. A welcoming and pretty ‘stoep’ leads into a large and captivating tasting room where you can unwind and sip on their great wines.

The farm is internationally known for producing the area’s best-selling Sauvignon Blanc. Southern Right’s wines are named after the rare Southern Right whales, which frequent the cool South Atlantic Walker Bay just three kilometres away from the vineyards. With each bottle sold, Southern Right makes a contribution to their conservation or to conservation in the area.

 

 

Made reductively in order to maximize the fruit personality of the vintage, the 2013 shows more marked fruit aromatics than usual, while maintaining the typical Southern Right balance of Old World minerality and length with hints of New World palate coverage and body.  2013 is a wine that favours origin expressive individuality, minerality and palate complexity ahead of pure, pungent varietal aroma. A significant percentage of fruit from clay-rich soil has added an intense mid-palate structural component and addition overall complexity to this wine.

Alc: 13.0 vol%

 

Southern Right is redefining Pinotage with this intense classically styled, clay-grown wine, packed with complex berry fruit, beautiful tannins and subtle wood spice.  Full ripeness and the longer hang-time afforded by cooler sites, combined with the complex, more classic fruit aromas and structure resulting from clay-rich soil, make this wine a highly individual expression of South Africa’s unique grape variety.

Alc: 14.0 vol%

 

 

 

 

 

In the heart of the valley is Ashbourne wine estate, Hamilton Russell’s second property, and it is nothing less than picturesque. There is a quiet serenity to the farm with its single building overlooking a nature lover’s paradise. Sit and have a tasting outside and enjoy the lovely, tranquil view of the lake, trees and lush green lawns. It’s simply a stunning and relaxing venue to pair with such a unique wine.

 

 

Behind the pretty, psychedelic label lies a fresh, vibrant, perfumed Sauvignon Blanc. Filled out and enriched with a carefully judged unwooded Chardonnay component, makes this a beautifully balanced and highly versatile wine. More than two decades of the Hamilton Russell family experience has gone into this unique blend.

A donation per bottle sold goes to the Hemel en Aarde Valley Pre-School for underprivileged children.

Alc: 13.0 vol%

 

 

 

 

 

Driving up to the next farm you will greeted by a happy pop of pink as you approach the gorgeous La Vierge wine farm which boasts one of the most breathtaking views in the area. Situated 300m above sea level, the sight of the brilliant ocean is framed by the verdant, rolling vineyards, setting the scene for a stunning wine experience. Their lush, green vines are thanks to the natural climatic elements of the valley. The vines are planted, grow and ripen grapes each year, without the addition of irrigation or any alterations to the terroir.

The restaurant and tasting room décor is simultaneously rustic and modern. An eclectic space that provides a unique wine tasting experience.

 

 

The profile of this wine is based on the vines planted on a variation of shale and clay based soils. The wine therefore expresses the extensive richness of the clay on the palate and aromatic tropical fruit and mineral character on the nose. Using a blend of yeasts and the uniqueness achieved with the two portions of Semillon, it shows concentrated tropical melon and pear, with a hint of lemon grass character and a full mineral follow through on the palate.

96% Sauvignon Blanc, 4% Semillon

Alc: 13.25%vol

 

After overnight cold storage the grapes were sorted, destemmed and gently crushed in red ferment tanks. A 35% portion was fermented whole bunch in the tank. Cold maceration occurred for 7 days.  The wine was then fermented under controlled temperatures until dry.  The skins were then lightly pressed and the wine racked into a selection of French Oak Barriques (30% new barrels) for 9 months ageing and maturation. Final blending occurred one month prior to bottling and the wine was allowed to develop further in bottle prior to release.

This flagship wine shows cool climate poise and elegance with an earthy and bright fruit character. The 2011 vintage expresses the typical earthy and savoury aromas of the fine Burgundy variety and is backed by a red fruit character.

Alc: 13.4% Vol

 

A wine of Seduction is the entry level Pinot Noir from La Vierge’s younger vines situated in the ward of Hemel en Aarde Ridge. This wine shows cool climate attraction and elegance with a bright fruit character.

To the eye it has a clear, bright red hue with a purple tint. On the nose it delivers ripe succulent raspberries and cherries with a hint of warm spiciness. And on the palate it seduces you with waves of red fruit and savoury enticement.

Alc: 13.5% Vol

 

 

La Vierge’s restaurant has a stunning 360-degree view of the vineyards and makes the perfect venue for any occasion, from weddings to a sunny, weekend lunch on the deck. Open for lunch daily, you can enjoy a wine tasting and some delicious food on any day of the week. Chef Wayne Spencer provides fresh and seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients. The food is comforting and the light lunches are perfect after a morning of wine tasting. Think mezze platters to share, delicious lamb burgers or for lovers of seafood; prawns and West Coast mussels. Post-lunch, take part in a fun game of Boule while you sip on some bubbles. La Vierge restaurant makes an ideal spot to celebrate a day in the winelands.

 

 

 

 

 

Ataraxia means an untroubled and serene state of mind that is free from worry. This is perfectly captured at the beautiful Ataraxia wine farm. A charming little white chapel sits by itself on top of the hill, amongst green vineyards with the great Babylon Toren Mountain behind it – a peaceful, yet dramatic sight.

Step inside this lone little chapel and you will find a stunning, modern interior.  White walls with pops of colour from the exquisite artwork by Tay Dall embellish Ataraxia’s tasting room – The Wine Lounge. Sit back, relax and take in the stunning views as you sip on Ataraxia’s wines made by the very talented winemaker and member of the Cape Winemakers Guild, Kevin Grant.

 

 

Careful fruit selection and skilled winemaking using reductive cellar techniques has resulted in their Sauvignon Blanc seamlessly incorporating the very best that the Old and New World styles have to offer. This wine has an emphasis on individuality and minerality ahead of pure, pungent fruit, but still shows hints of passion fruit and citrus as well as green melon aromas. These are easily reflected on the palate and are complemented by a lively acidity that forms a classy structure and succulent texture.

Alc: 13.17% Vol

 

A chiselled, focussed wine that effortlessly manages to be both subtle and intense. At its core is a piercing expression of grapefruit, white peach, ripe pear and grilled hazel nuts aromas and flavours. The palate is penetrating and profound yet graceful and poised. A forceful mineral acidity is beautifully balanced by a subtle yet compelling intensity of fruit. A classic length, creaminess and intriguing complexity define this stylish, world class Chardonnay.

Alc: 13.59% Vol

 

This wine is a seamless blend of six classic red Mediterranean varietals and because the emphasis is more on style than cultivar make-up, these remain unnamed and therefore a secret blend. The grapes were handpicked, sorted and crushed into open fermenters. Here they underwent cold maceration on their skins for seven days before completing fermentation and being pressed off to barrel where malolactic fermentation took place. Careful maturation in tight-grain French oak barriques, 36% of which were new, for a period of 18 months followed before the wine was bottled in October 2010. A further resting period of 35 months in bottle followed before it was ready for release in October 2013.

A finely scented vibrant nose with beautifully lifted dark berry fruit and intriguing mineral and spicy notes characterise this wine. Refined, polished tannins are wrapped in an elegant structure that subtly occupies all corners of the palate. Ethereal, yet assertive; classic and lingering, it reflects the grasp of style and deft hand of its maker.

Alc: 14.0% Vol

 

 

 

 

 

Hit the rustic, dusty road and find a beautiful creation awaiting your arrival. A contemporary, yet natural and earthy building fits perfectly into its surroundings. This piece of paradise is home to one of the Cape’s trendiest wine farms – Creation. A tribute to Mother Nature – its flourishing vines are the stunning centerpiece to the foothills of the Babylon Toren Mountain.  Not only are the terroir-rich wines delicious, but Creation also has a selection of exciting activities designed specifically for wine lovers. A magical destination celebrating the creation of wine.

 

 

Fermented in stainless steel tanks at 15 ˚C, without malolactic fermentation. Matured on fine lees for 3-4 months.

A promising pale gold, clear and shiny in the glass. Abundantly fruity and forthcoming, yet refined on the nose with fragrant white peach aromas mingling with a rich, creamy character. These follow well onto the palate and combine seamlessly with crisp minerality and bouncy, well-integrated natural acidity. Delicious as an aperitif, or enjoy with creamy pasta and poultry dishes.

Alc: 14.5% Vol

 

The Reserve is a vineyard selection, traditional skin fermentation and post fermentation maceration, followed by malolactic fermentation in the barrels. Two to three rackings were done during the 14 month maturation period and light filtration preceded bottling.

Gleaming garnet with an inviting bouquet of spice peppercorn and clove - complemented by a delicate aroma of dried apricot. Smooth yet complex on the palate: layers of dried fruit mingle with hints of raspberry and piquant spice. It’s a lingering wine with supple tannins to ensure excellent maturation potential. Recommended with veal cordon bleu, smoked salmon tagliatelle or duck, mushroom and lentil salad.

Alc: 14.5% Vol

 

Traditional skin fermentation followed by malolactic fermentation in barrels, two to three rackings during the 14 months maturation. Rough filtration before bottling.

Dark purple in colour, almost black, with flashes of deep crimson. Alluring aromas of ripe black olive elegantly complemented by a hint of pepper. A full-bodied Rhone-style blend with intense flavours of ripe plum and black pepper. Supple ripe tannins and well-integrated, natural acidity contribute to the appeal. Ideally suited to red meat dishes, especially Cape Malay lamb curry.

Alc: 14.5% Vol

 

 

Food and wine is a match made in heaven and at Creation you can savour the magnificent wines paired with delectable food platters. The small canapés have powerful flavours in every bite that play wonderfully with the expressive wines.

The activities on this stunning wine farm are endless. Take a tour around the land, or discover Creation’s biodiversity on foot before a magical wine tasting under the ‘Big Tree’. It doesn’t end there – you can also take part in the fine art of wine blending, from Bordeaux to Rhône blends. You will be enriched and challenged to create your very own individual blend.

 

 

 

 

 

Our last stop but by no means the least,  Domaine des Dieux, which means place of the Gods. Nestled at the foothills of the highest peak in the valley is a heavenly wine farm that is beautifully rustic and quaint, complete with a cottage and enclosed pavilion as a tasting room. Don’t let its size fool you, the charming farm boasts some delicious wines, including two refreshing and crisp bubblies – the first Méthode Cap Classiques to be made in this region.

 

Domaine des Dieux has managed to find an area of cooler temperatures and maritime breezes in this sunny region. In order to maximize the soil potential, they have planted virus-free vineyards with cultivars that have been carefully chosen to match the terroir – creating unique, award winning wines.

 

 

Claudia is a traditional method and bottle fermented sparkling wine, made from Pinot noir (24%) and Chardonnay (76%). This delicious bubbly is synonymous with celebration, and should be opened at every occasion. It's lively acidity pairs perfectly with seafood and sushi. Creamy lemon curd aromas combined with perfumed red berries on the nose. Fresh and light in the mouth with a long finish of toasty brioche notes.

Alc: 12% Vol

 

Best served ice-bucket cool. On the nose, floral notes mingle with classic gooseberry and lime aromas. The palate is fresh and dry, with Sauvignon Blanc's classic acidity running through it, finishing with a touch of succulent yellow plum. This is a versatile wine – ideal for entertaining. A sharp and creamy chèvre goat's cheese will bring out the creamy, leesy texture in the wine and show off its crisp fruit.

Alc: 13 % Vol

 

Syrah from the cool Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge brings white pepper, liquorice, and black cherries to the blend. The Mourvèdre contributes soft wild berry fruit and spice, softening out the blend. Moderate use of new oak supports fine tannins on the palate. The finish on the wine is long showing with great fruit purity. This is a rich and generous yet balanced blend, a perfect partner for more robust food. Serving wine cellar cool will help express the fruit on this wine.

Alc: 14 % Vol