More than a sip – Savour the tastes of the Plett Wine Route
Between the Indian Ocean and the Tsitsikamma Mountains, nudged by a gentle sea breeze, Plettenberg Bay is book-ended by charming boutique wine estates. The Plett Wine Route is South Africa’s smallest “Wine of Origin” Region and has famously produced award-winning stills and bubblies. Those looking for a crisp taste of Plett need look no further.
However, there’s more to the Plett Wine Route than tasting rooms: the wine estates of Plett have gone above and beyond to create some of the region’s most celebrated restaurants. Known for casual afternoon dining, sun-dappled tables beside the vines, and delectable platters that pair perfectly with their liquid partners, you’d be remiss if you choose not to visit at least one of the wine estate’s restaurants while you’re in Plett. Take a quick journey with us through the vines to where the tables are laid and waiting…
Packwood Country Estate
An incredible country setting is bordered by pristine forests from the north, and open vistas to the south across green pastures, gorges, mountains and to the distant ocean. This quaint farm venue is ideal for visitors who like to sip and savour their wines. Choose your favourite wines to take home and then meander through to the luncheon eatery for a homemade farmhouse cheese lunch made from Packwood’s own dairy cows. Savour your wine, the views and the cheeses – it’s well worth the meandering forest road taken to reach this slice of paradise. Note: The Packwood Eatery is only open to wine-tasting visitors and it is not a traditional restaurant. Learn more.
Newstead Lund Family Vineyards
Plett’s viticultural golden child, Newstead has been recognised on various occasions as one of South Africa’s top bubbly producers. You’ll find their restaurant delightful in its elegant simplicity and fresh flavours, designed to curate a joie de vivre. Or, as owners Doug and Sue Lund like to say: “Honesty, surprise, delight… that’s what we want from our wines, and from life.” The restaurant doesn’t have a formal menu but whatever they serve, expect it to be fresh, simple and delicious. Visitors can expect a range of oven-baked pizzas and, if the season indicates, dishes inspired by the moment and made from scratch using locally-sourced ingredients – often from Newstead’s own gardens! Newstead picnics have become a firm favourite with regular visitors and there are plenty of special spaces to settle in and indulge. Learn more.
Luka Cafe at Luka Vineyards
Where else in the world can you enjoy a delectable meal paired with local wine while watching the magnificent African elephant? A vineyard side by side with an elephant sanctuary? Talk about an experience made only in South Africa. Luka Cafe is known for their innovative, seasonal menus created by Chef Rich Rorich. The wine estate has developed a philosophy of sustainable and ethical practices. They have taken a Mandala as their logo to illustrate how every element has a connection and emotion. Take in the views and atmosphere with a breakfast of delicious locally sourced baked goods and pastries, platter lunches and picnics. The menu is seasonal and no day will be the same…expect to be surprised! Learn more.
Bitou Vineyards
This unique estate was formerly Bitou Polo, which famously hosted many international and local players for events and tournaments. It is now a beautiful wine estate that extends along the banks of the serene Bitou River. The first vineyards were established in 2008 and the estate has grown with the vines. The restaurant has a fresh and vibrant atmosphere, encouraging visitors to stay awhile with exceptional customer service and delicious food. Visitors can expect simple dishes, including a seafood platter, beautifully prepared with every attention to detail. With views across the vineyards and a welcoming atmosphere, you’ll be quite happy to chat away and enjoy! Learn more.
ZOOX at Telluric Wine Estate
The new kid on the Plett Wine Route block is Telluric Wine Estate and their restaurant, ZOOX. Standing in Telluric’s ZOOX Restaurant overlooking the Bitou River, Rhone Hill Polo Fields, and young vines, it’s easy to appreciate the many locations from which to enjoy ‘that Plett feeling.’ The vines themselves are only a year old, so it will be a few more years before Telluric’s wines are served. However, the on-site restaurant, ZOOX, and new Padel courts are already creating a stir of their own. The restaurant is ideally located with exceptional views and aims to provide a comfortable dining experience, cosy coffee shop, wine bar, and venue in this exciting new location. Learn more.
Kay and Monty
Set in an old orchid greenhouse, Kay & Monty’s cosy tasting room and bar – complete with fireplace – contrasts with the expansive glass-walled restaurant. Visitors can expect country-style platters piled high with local cheeses, preserves, seasonal fruit, cured meats and fresh bread. The restaurant is a wonderful space for a long-table meal or an easy-going lunch paired with a chilled glass of bubbly, of course! Enjoy the views across the lake and pastures to the foot of the Tsitsikamma Mountains at your leisure. Learn more.
Bramon Wine Estate
Bramon Wine Estate was planted in 2000 making it Plett’s pioneering wine estate and, at the time, was the first estate established so far east of the more settled Cape Winelands. Bramon showed the region just how wonderful local wine estates could be and showed the wine industry how they could produce award-winning, non-traditional wines and bubblies! The restaurant became known as a favourite in Plett for tables set amongst the vines, a welcoming atmosphere and scrumptious platters: unpretentious and full of freshness and flavour! Learn more.
Worth Mentioning
- Plettenvale Wines offers a charming cheese and wine or chocolate and wine pairing at their cellar in Harkerville. By appointment only. Visit www.plettenvalewines.co.za to book.
- Lodestone Wine & Olives’ restaurant is currently closed but watch this space or visit www.lodestonewines.co.za for more information.
- If you’re more into brew than wine, give Barrington’s a try. Their craft beer and restaurant provide some of the best-loved tastes in Plett.
- For a well-rounded tasting experience, the new Robberg Distillery produces craft whiskies, gins and selected liquor. Book a tasting and factory tour here: www.robbergdistillery.co.za
