Sommelier Secret Sessions: Unlocking the Mysteries of Wine

Stellenbosch , South Africa

Sommelier Secret Sessions: Unlocking the Mysteries of Wine

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(1 reviews)

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us for a hands-on wine education experience in the Cape Winelands.

Starting at 11:00, the day begins with an introduction to South Africa’s Wine of Origin system, major grape varieties, and the role of terroir – from soil and slope to ocean influence.

A guided vineyard walk leads to a scenic viewpoint where guests enjoy a curated tasting while exploring vine training and origin principles. On the return walk, we discuss vine anatomy, pruning, and ground cover practices.

Back at the tasting room, a light seasonal lunch is served.

The afternoon features a practical session on wine service and tasting techniques, including aroma, palate evaluation, fermentation, and maturation.

Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply curious, this experience offers a deeper connection to South African wine, with stunning landscapes and expert guidance throughout.

The day concludes around 15:30 with return transport to your accommodation.

Available options

Sommelier Secret Sessions: Unlocking the Mysteries of Wine

Pickup included

What's included

Includes a light lunch to complement the day’s activities.

Qualified instructor - WSET 3 - CWA certified - Experience Industry Professional.

A guided tasting that explores local varietals and wine styles.

Enjoy the day – we’ll handle the driving with private return transport.

Detailed itinerary

Meet at Deluxe Coffeeworks "Smidswinkel" Stellenbosch

Kick off your day at one of the best coffee shops in Stellenbosch, Deluxe Coffeeworks "Smidswinkel." Arrive early and grab a quick coffee, known for its rich flavour and exceptional quality, to energise yourself for the exciting day ahead. The cosy ambience and friendly baristas make it the perfect start to your adventure.

Learn about the South African Wine of Origin System:

- Understand how this classification system guarantees the quality and authenticity of South African wines.

- South African Varietals: Discover the unique grape varieties that thrive in South Africa's diverse climate.

- Terroir and Climate: Gain insights into how the local terroir and climate influence wine production.

- Viniculture - Winemaking: Explore the intricate process of winemaking from vine to bottle.

Wine Tasting Session:

- How to Taste Like a Professional: Learn the techniques and tips for tasting wine like a sommelier, including evaluating appearance, aroma, and flavour.

- Wine Faults: Identify common wine faults and understand their causes, enhancing your wine appreciation skills.

Vineyard Walk at Karibib:

- Take a leisurely walk around Karibib’s vineyards. Learn about viticulture techniques and discover how terroir influences the grape varieties planted. Karibib’s unique elevation and exposure to the elements make it an exceptional estate with a distinctive character.

Lunch Break at Karibib:

- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Karibib’s fantastic restaurant. Savour a delicious meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients while soaking in the beautiful vineyard views.

- This break is a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the morning's experiences.

Depart to Super Single Vineyard

- Test Your Knowledge: Apply your newfound understanding of South African wines and styles in a practical setting.

- Enjoy the Setting and Wines: Immerse yourself in the authentic ambience of Super Single Vineyard while tasting their incredible wines. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the region’s viticulture.

Depart to Stellenbosch:

- Conclude your enriching day with a comfortable return to Stellenbosch, bringing back not just memories but a profound understanding of South African wines and their unique terroir.

What's not included

Wine Purchases

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wine Tasting only allowed for travelers aged 18 years and older

Meeting point

About Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch, nestled in the Cape Winelands, is a picturesque university town known for its Cape Dutch architecture, world-class wines, and stunning mountain landscapes. It's a vibrant blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination in South Africa.

Top Attractions

Stellenbosch University

One of Africa's leading universities, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant student life. The campus is a must-visit for its beauty and historical significance.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Drostdy Wine Estate

A historic wine estate with beautiful Cape Dutch architecture, offering wine tastings and a glimpse into Stellenbosch's winemaking heritage.

Wine/Historical 1-2 hours R50 to R100 (USD $3 to $7) for tastings

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

A stunning natural reserve with hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day R50 (USD $3) entry fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Braai (BBQ)

A traditional South African barbecue, featuring grilled meats, sausages, and vegetables. Often accompanied by pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish).

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.

Bunny Chow

A Durban-inspired dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. It's a popular and affordable street food option.

Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based curry fillings.

Malva Pudding

A sweet, sticky, and spongy pudding made with apricots and covered in a creamy sauce. Often served with ice cream or custard.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar. Vegan and gluten-free alternatives may be available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve Mountain biking in Stellenbosch Mountain Bike Park Paragliding over the winelands Wine tasting at local estates Spa treatments at luxury resorts Picnicking in the Botanical Garden Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

February to April, September to November

These periods offer pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities, wine tasting, and exploring the town. The landscapes are lush and green, and the weather is ideal for hiking and cycling.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Afrikaans, English
Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stellenbosch is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates compared to other South African cities. However, petty crime and opportunistic theft can occur, so it's important to take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber

Getting there

By air

Cape Town International Airport • 50 km (31 miles)

By train

Stellenbosch Station

By bus

Stellenbosch Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The MyCiTi bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and clear routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Stellenbosch Dornhof Devon Valley

Day trips

Franschhoek

30 km (19 miles) • Full day

A charming town known for its French Huguenot heritage, stunning wine estates, and gourmet dining. Franschhoek offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Paarl

25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day

A picturesque town with a rich history and some of the Cape Winelands' most renowned wine estates. Paarl is known for its beautiful architecture, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Cape Town

50 km (31 miles) • Full day or overnight

South Africa's vibrant and cosmopolitan capital, offering a mix of stunning beaches, historic sites, and world-class attractions. Cape Town is a must-visit for its natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Festivals

Stellenbosch Wine Festival • February to March (annual, dates vary) Woordfees (Word Festival) • March (annual, dates vary) Stellenbosch on Tap • October (annual, dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Stellenbosch Farmers' Market for a taste of local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts (Saturdays, seasonally, April to November)
Explore the town's historic sites and architecture on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other
Take a wine tour to discover the best of Stellenbosch's wine estates and learn about the region's winemaking heritage
Hike in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve for stunning views and outdoor adventure, with trails suitable for all skill levels
Attend a local festival or event for a taste of South African culture and entertainment, such as the Stellenbosch Wine Festival or Woordfees (Word Festival)