This June, Gauteng wine lovers were treated to a rich taste of the Cape Winelands, as the famed Stellenbosch Wine Routes brought their best to Johannesburg. Over the weekend of 9 – 11 June, the heart of Joburg—from Soweto to Sandton—became ground zero for the Stellenbosch Experience, an immersive celebration of South Africa’s most celebrated wine region.
With more than 40 top producers represented, the events offered an extraordinary opportunity to engage directly with the winemakers and winery owners behind the labels Gauteng consumers know and love. The likes of Ntsiki Biyela from Aslina Wines, Shawn Matthyse of Ken Forrester Wines, Rianie Strydom of Cavalli Estate and Dirk van Zyl of Glenelly Wines were among the esteemed names who made the journey north.
A particular highlight this year was the inclusion of Stellenbosch’s award-winning brandies, bringing a warm, refined touch to the festivities.
Gauteng has long been one of the strongest support bases for Cape wineries, whether through holiday visits or regular purchases at favourite local outlets. The Stellenbosch Experience offered the perfect occasion to bring that relationship full circle—allowing Joburg locals to enjoy the wines, stories and personalities of Stellenbosch, without leaving the city.
“It’s about more than wine,” said Stellenbosch Wine Routes manager Elmarie Rabe. “It’s about shared culture, heritage and community.”
With sold-out events at Ristorante Villa in Soweto and the Southern Sun Sandton, the Stellenbosch Experience cemented itself once again as a highlight on Gauteng’s wine calendar.
And for those who now crave more—Stellenbosch awaits. The region’s much-anticipated Wine Town Festival returns this August, promising yet another unforgettable journey into the soul of South African wine.