Situated 15 km from Stellenbosch along the picturesque Route 44, framed against the slopes of the Helderberg, lies Yonder Hill Wines. Here, six hectares of vineyards are annually crafted into top wines – and we were fortunate enough to attend the official release of the Inanda 2013.
If you’re a fan of a smooth, vibrant red, the Inanda red blend is a must-try. Along with fellow wine lovers, writers, judges and aficionados, we enjoyed a vertical tasting of the Inanda, from years 2008 to 2014. The Inanda 2013, the second last of our tasting flight, is a Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend. It’s worth noting how well-balanced and easy drinking it is – pair it with a bold pasta dish or sizzling steak and you’ve got yourself a winning dinner.
Led by winemaker Abé Beukes, we had great fun tasting and commenting on the blends. We even blended our very own Inanda 2015! I was convinced our group had won (come on, our blend was delicious), but alas, we were placed third. Not bad for a first time blender though.
The vineyards are five years old and planted along the northern slopes of the farm, maximising sunlight exposure and False Bay’s sea breeze. The berries of the four cultivars ripen at different stages of the harvest – each cultivar is therefore harvested and fermented separately in stainless steel tanks.
The farm is proud to be environmentally conscious; the use of minimal handling and insecticides shows their approach towards enviro-friendly farming methods. This boutique winery is a highly recommended stop on your wine-tasting missions, and it’s worth investing in a crate or two when you leave.
Book a cheese and wine tasting (R85 per person), which includes four cheeses, Olyfberg olive products, and a selection of biscuits and bread. The normal wine tasting (R30) includes a pre-drink and four wines to taste. Cellar tours with winemaker Abé Beukes are also available by appointment.
OF NOTE
Where R44 Strand Road, Stellenbosch
Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9 am – 4 pm. Closed on weekends, public holidays and over the Easter Weekend
Contact +27 21 855 1008, www.yonderhill.co.za
Photography Bernard Myburgh