Renowned global wine authority, Wine Spectator, features South Africa in their July 2013 issue and we couldn’t be more pleased. We’ve long said that South African wines are amongst the very best in the world, with the country producing wines of equal or greater quality as established producers such as the United States, Australia and France. With the majority of South Africa’s wine lands located just outside Cape Town – where our South African office is located – it’s safe to say that we’re quite familiar with them. In celebration of this honour, we thought we’d put together some of our favourite lodges who boast exceptional cellars for the wine enthusiast on safari in Africa’s wine headquarters.
1. Singita Boulders
Located in the private Sabi Sands concession in the Kruger National Park, world famous Singita Boulders has one of the best cellars in South Africa and counts some 35 000 bottles in it’s inventory. Sip on a cold chardonnay while relaxing in your private plunge pool overlooking the African bush, and, if you really enjoy that particular tipple, there is a well stocked wine boutique on site for purchasing your favourite(s).
2. Honeyguide Mantobeni
Another concession in the Kruger National Park, the Manyaleti Private Game Reserve’s Honeyguide Mantobeni combines colonial inspired interior design with an authentic African safari experience under canvas. Their climate controlled wine cellar houses a vast selection of South Africa’s very best wines, which are expertly paired with the freshly prepared meals of the day for an all round gastronomic treat.
3. Royal Malewane
Located in the Thornybush Game Reserve, just outside the Kruger National Park, Royal Malewane is an exclusive getaway for the discerning safari enthusiast. With a maximum of 20 guests at a time, the camp oozes luxurious splendour – which is mirrored by it’s superb wine cellar.
4. Ulusaba
Part of the Virgin Group of Companies, Ulusaba Safari Lodge offers the quintessential safari experience with the lodge located on a hill surrounded by the African bush for as far as the eye can see. With Sir Richard Branson having personally overseen all the important details, guests can rest assured that the cellar houses an impressive collection of some of his personal favourites.
5. The Cape Winelands
While the title of this article is the Top 5 wine lodges in South Africa, it would be remiss to not mention their source – The Cape Winelands. Boasting award-winning cuisines, exceptionally high quality wines, and some of the most beautiful vineyards in the world, the Cape Winelands are well worth a visit. From Stellenbosch – one of the oldest towns in South Africa – to culinary capital Franschoek, the winelands are all within an easy hours drive outside Cape Town and make for a perfect way to spend a sunny Cape day.
If you’d like to experience some of the best wines in the world in South Africa for yourself, Contact Us to make it happen.