Introducing the city vineyards on The Silo Hotel’s doorstep

A history of winemaking

The story of Constantia can be traced back to at least 1685, and the unique setting of this suburb, separated from the ocean by towering mountains, proved to be ideal for growing vines. As a result, numerous vineyards were planted in the area, many of which still operate today. The wineries of Constantia are known not just for their exceptional vintages, but also for the beauty of their setting, and the many estate structures built in the distinctive and very appealing ‘Cape Dutch’ style. Given that these wineries are so close to The Silo Hotel, and also in close proximity to each other, it is very possible to visit several of them in a single day by following the official Constantia Wine Route, or your own bespoke plan. Our Concierge Team can help with bookings and reservations.

Join us on a quick tour of our favourite Cape Town vineyards…

Constantia Glen

This boutique winery offers an unbeatable combination of wine tasting and spectacular views. The tasting room provides the perfect setting in which to sample this estate’s ultra-premium wines – perhaps the ultimate expression of the winemaker’s art in a cool climate context. Constantia Glen also serves excellent food, with each dish carefully chosen to complement the estate’s wines. We love popping into Constantia Glen for lunch, and it’s also heavenly at sunset if you’re looking for a suitably romantic location in which to toast your love for each other. With just 120,000 bottles produced per year, the wines of Constantia Glen are one of the rare treats in South Africa.

Left: Rolling Constantia Glen vines, right: expansive views from Beau Constantia

Beau Constantia

From its vantage point at the top of Constantia Nek, this boutique wine farm looks out over False Bay, and is another of our local favourites. Two of the best reasons to visit are the Wine Tasting Room, and the Chef’s Warehouse Restaurant. You’ll b able to taste the estate wines, many of which are named after family members – a clue that here, family is every bit as important as terroir. You’ll also be struck by the pristine fynbos vegetation, and the estate’s famous silver trees – there are believed to be around 2,000 of these growing alongside the 11 hectares of wines. All told, this wine farm produces just 45,000 bottles per year – and at least as many fabulous memories.

Constantia Uitsig

With a history that can be traced back to 1685, Constantia Uitsig is descended from the very earliest wine farms in South Africa. Today, it offers an intriguing blend of tradition and modernity, with the high-tech winery contrasting wonderfully with the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. Taste the award-winning wines and MCC sparkling wines, and enjoy unique Constantia Uitsig experiences including the heritage market for artisanal local food, two restaurants (the Blockhouse Kitchen and La Grotto Ristorante) and even a mountain bike trail, or simply wander amongst the delightful fynbos vegetation.

Left: Constantia Uitsig’s modern winery, right: Jonkershuis restaurant at Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia

This wine farm can claim to be the oldest in the country, and the continuous legacy of winemaking here is a testament to the passion commitment of generations of winemakers. You can enjoy their living legacy today when you tour this historic site, taste their wines, and enjoy their popular chocolate and wine tasting experience. Visit the cellars and original manor house, and learn more about the history of winemaking in South Africa, and how those many decades of experience have been distilled into today’s award-winning wines.

Buitenverwachtig

Last but by no means least, the name of this Constantia Valley wine farm means ‘beyond expectations’. No matter how high those expectations may be, we know from happy experience that Buitenverwachtig always delivers. Known especially for its sauvignon blanc wines, the estate also offers the laid-back yet sophisticated Coffee Bloc café, Peter Tempelhoff’s Beyond Restaurant, and of course, wine tasting. Venture into the historic cellar overlooking the lush green lawns, and linger over wine, charcuterie and the remarkable ambience of Constantia.

Towering oak trees in Buitenverwachtig’s gardens

If we’ve given you a thirst to explore Constantia, talk to our Concierge Team to see how easy it is to include this unique destination in your time at The Silo Hotel.