It’s the most wonderful time of the year-in the Breede River valley. All the vineyards are bright green with spring vines, the weather is fantastic and the R62 between Robertson and Bonnievale comes alive with visitors to this acclaimed wine producing region.
A highlight on the social calendar is the annual ‘Wine on the River’ festival that takes place just outside Robertson.
Top wine producers from the area come together along the banks of the Breede to celebrate the best wines the valley has to offer. It is the perfect opportunity to fill up your wine cellar ahead of the festive season.
This year, the festival showcased over 30 vineyards and included a few gourmet foodie finds as well. There were helicopter rides, and boat trips down the Breede River, making sure that visitors enjoyed the surrounding landscapes and not just the wines. The weather was perfect, without a breath of wind. Festival organizers had gone the extra mile, including a refillable water bottle with your entrance ticket and water dispensers along the tasting hall to ensure everyone stayed hydrated. The best in local music ensured the crowd was entertained and the mood festive.
I had the opportunity to attend the festival this year, and I have put together a visual tour of my favourite moments.
A highlight for me was without a doubt the Graham Beck Pop up bubbly bar. Here, you could taste a selection of the MCC and sparklings the producer has to offer. It was an excellent education for those keen to learn more about the fantastic bubbles in the collection.
Springfield Estate, home of my favourite Sauvignon Blanc, Life from Stone.
Klue, by Wolvendrift wines. The 2016 Chenin Blanc was delicious!
Prevoir Wines. The Chardonnay blew me away. ‘People need to learn to drink their Chardonnay without wood’- Truth spoken by winemaker, Tertsius.
After wine tasting treats!
It was a wonderful weekend out and I would highly recommend you pencil Wine on the River into your diary for 2018.
Looks interesting!
I need a winery where we can relax next to a pool or the river after our tasting.
It is to take place on November 12th
I have a large Bus and 22 German young professionals.
Zandvliet is an option, but Li previously enjoyed Arendsig’s tasting very much.
It is going to be a super hot day, thus the request for a place where they could chill or swim before or after..
That day we are coming form Oudtshoorn to Cape Town.
Hi there, I am so sorry I am only seeing your comment now. Where did you end up yesterday? It is so warm at the moment, I hope you were able to keep cool. If you ever need assistance please email me at jessica@foodtravelwine.co.za.