THE countdown to the annual Stellenbosch Wine Festival has begun. There are just weeks to go before it opens as the centrepiece of Wine Town Stellenbosch, a celebration of the humble grape from 4 to 9 August.
Inaugurated last year, Wine Town Stellenbosch features a diverse series of events and experiences designed to offer something for everyone. Among them are live music performances, farm walks, inspired meals, and tutored tastings â from formal to informal occasions â all featuring top wines as the main attraction.
The format of the festival remains de-centralised. With events hosted around town and on wine farms, Wine Town Stellenbosch gives wine lovers the best opportunity to explore the region known for its heritage and world champion wines. Oenophiles will get their fill not only at in-depth tastings with winemakers themselves, but also through focused events aimed at highlighting particular aspects of local wines, such as cultivar excellence or age of vineyards.
At the heart of the celebration is the Stellenbosch Wine Festival on Friday, 5 August and Saturday, 6 August. This two-day showcase in the Stellenbosch Town Hall is ideal for wine-lovers wanting a first-hand snapshot of the regionâs excellence and heritage. Over 200 wines will be represented by more than 30 participating wineries, with curated tastings focused on special varieties and vintages.
Stalls run by the regionâs top wineries will offer tastings, from 4pm to 8pm on Friday; and 2pm to 6pm on Saturday. Food prepared by renowned Stellenbosch chef Bertus Basson will be available too. Early-bird tickets are on sale at R300pp until July 25, rising to R350pp thereafter. To attend, book online via Plankton.
For more information on dates, locations, prices and terms and conditions, click here.  Join the social media conversation and use #WineTownStellenbosch when you connect with @stellwineroute on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Enquiries may be directed by email at [email protected] or phone to 021 886 4310.
