The air’s turning crisp, the reds are getting deeper, and Paarl Wine Route is ready to serve up a season of flavour, fun, and a few surprises.
Whether you’re in it for the wine, the food, the live music, or simply a beautiful day out, there’s something here to tempt every kind of weekend wanderer.
Kick things off at Ridgeback Wines, where quiet determination meets seriously good wine.
This cellar isn’t about flashy showmanship – it’s about consistency, care, and winemaker Toit Wessels, who’s been crafting Ridgeback’s award-winning wines since day one. With its tranquil duck pond setting and philosophy of letting the fruit do the talking, Ridgeback is a soulful stop worth making. If it’s not already on your radar, now’s the time to fix that.
Craving bold reds and hearty bites?
Perdeberg’s Winter Wine Pairing experience is your go-to. From Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm, they’re serving up curated pairings that celebrate the best of the season. Think comfort food with a classy twist, paired perfectly with robust reds. At R160 per person, it’s a warm hug for your tastebuds – and it runs until the end of October. Your winter weekends just got booked.
Saturday, 3 May, brings the return of a beloved favourite: Windmeul Farmers’ Market.
It’s a monthly must for locals, and for good reason. Stock up on artisan pantry goods, grab a glass (or three), and enjoy live music from none other than Wynand Windpomp. Plus, there’s a 10% discount on all wines you take home. Bonus: the kids won’t be bored – there’s a whole play zone just for them. Wine for you, jungle gyms for them. Everyone wins.
Friday is International Sauvignon Blanc Day, and if you needed a reason to celebrate, Niel Joubert has delivered one in a bottle.
Their award-winning Sauvignon Blanc is all zesty passion fruit, lime, pineapple, and a fresh-cut lawn kind of freshness. It’s got just the right balance of zing and plushness, and frankly, it deserves a place on your table this week.
And don’t forget the queen of the month – Mom. On Sunday, 11 May, treat her to a relaxed and elegant lunch at The Manor at Nederburg.
Choose between a 2-course (R295) or 3-course (R375) meal made with seasonal ingredients and lots of love. Lunch runs from 12:00 to 16:00, and there’s even a little surprise gift for her. Just remember to book ahead – this one fills up fast.
So, whether you’re toasting to moms, market mornings, Sauvignon Blanc, or simply the joy of a good glass in good company, Paarl Wine Route is the place to be. Just bring your appetite and maybe a designated driver.
