Meerendal Wine Estate
Winery Description
Location and History
Meerendal's winemaking legacy dates back to 1702 when the first sixty thousand vines were planted. Today, over three hundred years later, this proud tradition continues with more than one hundred and fifty thousand vines flourishing on the estate. The Coertze family joined this esteemed history in 2004 when they invested in Meerendal, marking the beginning of their own wine journey. Deeply committed to the estate, its vines, and the wines they produce, the family constantly strives to enhance the lives of those at Meerendal and to maintain the high quality of their wines.
Meerendal Estate is uniquely situated in a cool climate area with fertile, predominantly clay soils. The diverse elevations and orientations of the landscape, combined with the estate's proximity to the ocean, constant breezes, and Mediterranean climate, create an ideal terroir for grape cultivation.
The Meerendal Cellar, originally built in 1943, still houses the twenty open concrete fermentation and storage tanks from its early days. However, the cellar has since been updated with modern stainless steel tanks and winemaking equipment, blending tradition with contemporary innovation.
Wine Tasting
Visitors to Meerendal Wine Estate can enjoy a memorable wine tasting experience where they can sample a selection of well-crafted wines. The estate boasts wines that reflect the distinct qualities of the terroir, providing an authentic taste of the region. The tasting room features a cosy indoor area with a comfortable lounge and tasting tables. On pleasant weather days, the leafy outdoor pergola with a seating area becomes popular. Guests can select from two wine ranges, with sweet and savoury pairings also available and a kids' pairing and a platter to complement the wine-tasting experience. The cool climate wines offer unique flavours, including Sauvignon Blanc and Pinotage.
Restaurant
LaRomantica captures the vibrant and flavourful essence of Italian life. Its extensive menu brings together the best of Italian cuisine with South African influences, perfectly paired with Meerendal’s fine estate wines. The restaurant is designed to evoke the warmth of home cooking, where the kitchen is the heart of every South African household, creating a space where everyone feels like family.
Bossa provides a welcoming and unpretentious environment for people of all ages. With a lively atmosphere, friendly service, and a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and occasions, Bossa offers everything from nachos and chili poppers to crunchy salads, beloved burgers, seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and 35-day dry-aged prime cuts. Whether you're unwinding after work, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, Bossa offers the perfect setting, complete with a cozy fireplace for those chilly winter nights.
COCOAFAIR is a delightful addition to Meerendal Wine Estate, offering a world of award-winning artisanal chocolates and an exciting new deli concept. The Cocoafair Chocolaterie is a paradise for chocolate lovers, featuring an array of handcrafted chocolates and pastries made from ethically sourced, sustainably grown cacao beans. The shop offers a harmonious mix of classic and innovative flavors, catering to all preferences, from rich dark chocolates to creamy milk varieties and delectable vegan options.
Accommodation
The elegant Cape Dutch homestead was transformed into a boutique hotel that blends timeless grandeur with modern luxury. The uniquely designed spacious suites feature exquisite furniture, king-sized beds with Egyptian cotton bedding, and all the essentials for a five-star stay.
Manor House rooms, named after South African grape varieties, offer stunning vineyards or Boland Mountains views. Separate Garden Suites, with patios and private gardens, are nestled among the trees, while two Luxury Garden Suites provide sunset views. A charming self-catering Garden Cottage located in a secluded area of the estate, completes the accommodation options.
Tours and Activities
For outdoor enthusiasts, Meerendal offers hiking trails of 5 km, 7 km, and 9 km that wind through the vineyards, providing spectacular views along the way. The estate is also renowned for its mountain biking trails, with interconnecting routes of 5 km, 10.5 km, and 17.8 km. Whether you're a beginner learning the ropes or an experienced rider seeking a challenge, Meerendal’s trails offer 1-2 hours of exhilarating riding.