Frequently Asked Questions
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions — we're here to make your wine tour experience exceptional.
Can you pick us up and return us to our accommodation?+
Yes, all our tours include door-to-door service. For private tours, pick-ups are flexible from anywhere in Greater Cape Town or Stellenbosch. For our group wine tour, we offer complimentary collection and drop-off within central Cape Town and Stellenbosch — if you're staying outside these areas, we can meet you at a convenient central point.
Which farms do we visit on the tour?+
Private tours are tailored experiences with carefully chosen wine farms. Our group wine tour typically visits Fairview (for cheese tasting) and Villiera, though this may vary by day and season.
Is lunch included?+
On the group wine tour, yes — lunch is included at either Le Pommier on Helshoogte Pass or The Goatshed at Fairview, and we cater for vegetarians or special diets with advance notice. On private wine tours, lunch isn't included unless specified in the itinerary.
Can we choose the wine farms?+
On our group wine tour the estates are pre-selected for a seamless experience. If you'd like to design your own itinerary, our Private / Custom Wine Tour gives you full flexibility.
How long is the tour?+
All our tours are full-day excursions (approximately 8 hours). Group tours start around 8:30–9:00am from Cape Town and return around 5:30pm. Private tours are tailored to your itinerary.
Can children join the tours?+
Group tours are unfortunately not suitable for children. On private tours, children are welcome if accompanied by a parent or guardian — note the legal drinking age in South Africa is 18.
What payment options are available?+
We accept major credit and debit cards, and Instant EFT. You can pay your invoice securely online, or make an EFT using the bank details on the invoice.
Are your tours wheelchair friendly?+
Yes — we can arrange wheelchairs and our private tours are wheelchair friendly. Just let us know in advance.
When do your tours operate?+
Our tours run daily, except on Christmas Day and New Year's Day, unless there's a unique circumstance.
How large are the groups?+
Our group tours typically have 2 to 12 participants per vehicle. Private tours can accommodate larger groups, with competitive rates available.
What is the best time of year to go on a wine tour in South Africa?+
The ideal time is during the South African summer (November to March), when the weather is warm and the vineyards are in full bloom.
What should I bring along?+
Pack essentials like water, a sun hat, sunscreen, a jacket, comfortable shoes, and extra cash if you plan to make purchases (all farms also accept cards).
Where do tours depart from?+
Group tours depart from central Cape Town. Private and chauffeur-driven tours can depart from anywhere in Greater Cape Town, Stellenbosch or the surrounding Winelands — just let us know where you're staying.
What is a cellar tour?+
A guided exploration of a winery's inner workings — where the wine is actually made. You'll walk through the production and ageing process and pick up the tricks and techniques used along the way.
Are there guided wine tours available?+
Yes — all our scheduled and private wine tours are led by certified, registered tour guides, a great way to explore multiple wineries in a single day with the inside story on each one.
How can I arrange wine tastings and tours at the wineries myself?+
If you book with us, we handle all reservations and bookings for you. If you'd prefer a driver-only (chauffeur) option and plan to arrange tastings yourself, ask us about our trip-planning add-on — most wineries also allow direct bookings by phone, email or website.
What else is there to do in the wine regions besides wine tasting?+
The wine regions offer stunning landscapes, gourmet restaurants, art galleries and outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Ask us and we can build these into a custom or private itinerary.
Can I bring extra luggage?+
Vehicle space is limited, but a small backpack or bag is fine. If you need more space, contact us in advance and we'll do our best to accommodate.
Are advance reservations necessary for wine tastings?+
Some wineries accept walk-ins, but advance reservations are advisable, especially in peak season. We manage this for you whenever you book a tour with us.
Can I buy wine and have it shipped internationally?+
Yes, many wineries offer international shipping — just be aware of your home country's import regulations and duties.
What if it's bad weather?+
Rain won't stop the tour — most of the estates and restaurants we visit have indoor tasting rooms and dining areas, so tours run rain or shine.
Is there a dress code?+
Dress comfortably and presentably — a hat and light jacket are a good idea year-round. We'd suggest avoiding flip-flops given the walking involved on some estates.
Will we meet other people on tour?+
On our scheduled group wine tour, yes — a great chance to make new friends. Private tours are exclusively for your own group and guide.
Do I need wine experience to enjoy the day?+
Not at all — our tours are designed for seasoned sommeliers and complete novices alike. Everyone leaves knowing more than they arrived with.
What are the best wine regions to visit in South Africa?+
Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and Constantia are the standout regions around Cape Town, each with its own character, history and standout estates.
What is the most popular wine route in South Africa?+
The Stellenbosch Wine Route — known for its picturesque vineyards, historic estates and diverse range of wines.
What is the longest continuous wine route in the world?+
Route 62, at roughly 850 km, connecting Cape Town and Port Elizabeth through the Cape Winelands and Klein Karoo — a scenic, less-commercial alternative to the N2.
Which is the oldest wine region in South Africa?+
Constantia, in Cape Town, dating back to the late 1600s and famous for its sweet dessert wines.
What is the difference between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek?+
Stellenbosch is larger, with diverse terroirs and a wide range of estates. Franschhoek is smaller, has a strong French heritage, and is known for boutique wineries and its culinary scene.
What is Méthode Cap Classique (MCC)?+
MCC is the term for South African sparkling wine made using the traditional (Champagne) method — coined in 1992 after restrictions on using the word 'Champagne' outside that French region. Our MCC Tour visits several of the estates that specialise in it.