Gary Barlow’s South African Wine Adventure: A Tour of Vines, Views, and Fine Dining

As a travel enthusiast who has journeyed through the vibrant landscapes of the world, I must say that Gary Barlow’s Wine Tour: South Africa has undeniably made it to my list of top travel experiences. The serene beauty of Constantia, steeped in history and brimming with delectable wines, was a captivating introduction to the Winelands.

In a recent announcement for his new TV series, Gary Barlow humorously expressed: “Apparently, I’m ambitious in my underwear.” It turns out that he was referring to his travel attire as his wife claims he underpacks for trips. However, the lead singer of Take That is not just ambitious in one area; with a list of accomplishments including singer, songwriter, record producer, and an OBE, Barlow has also ventured into the world of wine entrepreneurship. Since launching his label in 2021, he has successfully sold the equivalent of ten million glasses of wine.

Given his aptitude for the task, he was ideally selected to showcase the vineyards (and dining spots) of one of the world’s top wine producers in the ITV series Gary Barlow’s Wine Tour: South Africa, now accessible on ITVX’s catch-up service. However, one doesn’t need extensive knowledge or a title like an OBE to appreciate a relaxing wine tour through South Africa, affectionately known as the Rainbow Nation. The wine journey commences in Constantia, situated across Table Mountain from Cape Town and easily reachable via a direct flight from London without jet lag. Moving westward but still within a 40-minute drive (drive on the left!) along the N1 or N2 highways, you’ll find renowned wine regions such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Scattered throughout the country are lesser-known, picturesque wine regions as well.

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CONSTANTIA

The region known for producing the oldest wines in South Africa is a popular destination, especially recognized for its sweet-tasting wines. This area lies just a 30-minute drive south from Cape Town and offers an easy day trip for wine enthusiasts seeking a taste of the Winelands. For those who want to sample the local wines without worrying about driving limitations, there are numerous sightseeing buses that traverse the region. If you choose to extend your stay, accommodations like Steenberg Farm (steenbergfarm.com) – established in 1682 as the first farm in the Cape – provide a variety of amenities such as golf courses, spas, excellent dining options, and luxurious hotel rooms, all while offering some of South Africa’s finest sauvignon blanc wines.

Are you feeling hungry? Then Franschhoek might just be the place for food lovers like you (and keep in mind that any eatery in the Winelands offers exceptional dining experiences, so that’s quite a compliment). A magnet for chefs, cheese makers, and chocolatiers, this town boasts an impressive array of top-notch restaurants offering great deals.

Here at this place, I’d highly recommend sampling the Method Cap Classique – it’s a sparkling wine with a flavor richer than traditional champagne, yet priced significantly lower. La Motte (la-motte.com) is undeniably popular, and rightly so, but some visitors find the vineyards a tad too picturesque, with an abundance of rosebushes adding to the scene.

As a cinema enthusiast, if you’re into something groovier and more rhythmic, Black Elephant Vintners offers wine and rock music pairings that are sure to delight your senses (bevintners.co.za). And when the party’s over and it’s time for a restorative nap, Franschhoek Country House & Villas hotel (fch.co.za) is an exquisite retreat to lay your head.

Why not imagine a winery right by the seashore? Just an hour and a half southeast of Cape Town, you’ll find Hermanus – a town known for surfing. From June to October, this area offers a breathtaking sight as southern right whales give birth in Walker Bay. After exploring the town and witnessing these magnificent creatures, quench your thirst with the exquisite chardonnays, sauvignon blancs, pinot noirs, and affordable sparkling wines from the nearby vineyards. Hamilton Russell Vineyards (hamiltonrussellvineyards.com), a vintage estate, offers classic chardonnays and pinots. If you prefer something more modern, La Vierge (lavierge.co.za) is a fresh, cooler alternative with unique varietals and a superb restaurant. Lastly, The Marine Hotel (themarinehotel.co.za) offers luxury rooms with stunning ocean views.

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Compared to some other places, Stellenbosch might be considered tranquil, but within the context of the relaxed Winelands region, this small city with a university feels bustling. This means you don’t have to travel far to enjoy the quality offerings: Dorp Street features a mix of antique stores, bars, and cafes that carry products from the over 130 local wineries. While it’s worth exploring outside the town as well – the most luxurious vineyards are located nearby, and you’ll find some of the finest wines here. Delaire Graff offers a blend of elegance with its expansive gardens, art-filled hotel, restaurant, spa, and excellent syrahs and chardonnays (delaire.co.za). You can choose from various multi-vineyard tours in Stellenbosch, which are offered via different modes of transportation such as horseback, hiking, or tuk-tuk.

2024-11-19 09:04

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