Gabriëlskloof
Winery Description
Location and History
Situated in the Botrivier valley, Gabriëlskloof is nestled between the Houwhoek range to the north and the Babylonstoren range to the south. The estate benefits from the cooling maritime breezes from the Atlantic Ocean, located just 15 km away at Hawston. Covering various soils, including Bokkeveld shale and sandstone, the farm houses 12 grape varieties and showcases the unique character of the terroir. The winery is committed to sustainability and biodiversity, maintaining its status as a Biodiversity and Wine Champion. Founded by Bernhard Heyns in 2001, the estate was formerly a canola farm named ‘Avontuur’. Over time, it has evolved into a fine wine producer, deeply engaged with the local community and its development. This commitment is evident in employment practices and various community upliftment programs. The estate also supports local wildlife, consisting of indigenous Cape fynbos, baboons, and diverse bird species, providing a picturesque and biodiverse visitor experience.
Wine Tasting
The wine tasting experience at Gabriëlskloof offers visitors a chance to explore a range of wines showcasing the estate's dedication to quality and terroir expression. The Tasting Room presents several tasting options, including the Intro Tasting, featuring selections from the Gabriëlskloof Range and Projects Range, as well as the Landscape Series Tasting, which focuses on showcasing specific vineyard sites and old vines. For those seeking a more extensive overview, the Deep Dive Tasting includes flights of different wines for comparison. Special tastings led by the winemaker or cellar master can also be arranged, providing an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the winemaking process. The farm's commitment to minimal intervention during fermentation and aging underlines the philosophy of expressing the true character of the grapes. With a range of wines available, visitors can experience the elegance of each cultivar, including offerings like the Syrah, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc, with an emphasis on the farm's experimentation and innovation in winemaking.
Restaurant
Farro Restaurant at Gabriëlskloof offers a delightful dining experience, focusing on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create wholesome and comforting dishes. Owned by husband-and-wife team Alex and Eloise Windebank, the restaurant embraces a classic-meets-comfort cooking style that reflects their philosophy of simplicity and respect for ingredient quality. The a la carte menu evolves with the seasons, allowing for a diverse selection of dishes that cater to various tastes. The wine list features the estate's wines available by glass and highlights options from the Gabriëlskloof cellar made by other winemakers. The Coffee 'Shop' section of Farro is open daily, providing a cosy space for guests to enjoy beverages. Surrounding attractions include other lodges and restaurants, making Farro a popular dining destination for both visitors and locals.
Accommodation
The Gabriëlskloof Farm House provides a tranquil retreat with classic decor and stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding farm. Located in the heart of Gabriëlskloof Wine Estate, this house, originally built in 1910, has been meticulously restored to offer weary travelers a refreshing and delightful sanctuary.
Featuring three en-suite bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, a bright living room, a spacious dining area, and outdoor braai areas, the farmhouse is perfect for a wine and food weekend with friends or a peaceful getaway with family.
Tours and Activities
