5 Best Sights in Robertson, The Western Cape and Winelands

Who needs French champagne when you have top-class South African Méthode Cap Classique at very affordable prices? Graham Beck Wines, on the road between Worcester and Robertson, produces some very sophisticated wines. Cellarmaster Pieter Ferreira is known as Mr. Bubbles for his wonderful sparkling wines, which are so popular that the farm no longer produces any still wines. The iconic Cap Classique flagship, Cuvée Clive, is the undisputed favorite in the range. As well as a standard tasting, you can try bubbly paired with gourmet popcorn and most unusually, olive oil.

Tastings here take place in a wonderful little wooden chalet overhanging the dam. You can also partake in a fun blending experience, in which you sample three red wines and then play around until you've found your perfect blend. You then get a bottle to take home, with a custom label you make on-site. The Graze Deli is known for its vetkoek, deep-fried doughy parcels stuffed with a sweet or savory filling. You can also book ahead for the Wine Walk, a three-day, 35-km (22-mile) walk among the region's vineyards. Each day you return to the estate's cottages to spend the night.

Capetonians have long considered Rooiberg Winery, between Worcester and Robertson, one of the best value-for-the-money wineries in the area. If you don't have time to taste much, delve straight into the reds from the reserve range, which count a few award winners in their ranks. The Red Chair Bistro serves light meals and delectable pastries, making this a good place to stop for lunch. It's named for the giant red chair outside, reportedly the largest of its kind in Africa.

Abrie Bruwer, owner and winemaker at Springfield Estate, has a fan club, and for good reason. If the wine doesn't meet Bruwer's stringent standards, it isn't released. Although the Whole Berry Cabernet has its loyal following, this innovative estate is also known for its unusual approach to white wines, especially Chardonnay. The Méthode Ancienne Chardonnay is made in the original Burgundy style, a technique that uses wild yeast and no fining or filtration. It has tropical fruit flavors, layered with lime and cream. The creamy Wild Yeast Chardonnay, with its all-natural fermentation, is an unwooded version of the above and comes highly recommended. Another great white is the Special Cuvée. It originates from the estate's prime Sauvignon Blanc vineyard and has notes of passion fruit and nettle. Miss Lucy, an unusual white blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Sauvignon Gris, and Pinot Gris, was created as an ode to the ocean. Free cellar tours are available weekdays.

This winery between Robertson and Bonnievale produces around 60 wines, as well as whiskey, brandy, and wine coolers, so there's something to suit most palates. In addition to sampling the wines, be sure to visit the unusual grounds of this family-owned farm. An established garden of native and exotic plants and trees surrounds a fountain that supplies the entire farm. You can sit out under the trees and have the various wines brought to you. It's very relaxed and friendly, with approachable wines and an unpretentious atmosphere. The tasting room offers 10 different tastings, including pairings with cheese, chocolate, and a selection of sweets. There is even a nonalcoholic tasting and a pairing for kids.