Though Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Somerset West, and even Wellington, are lauded as being the places to head to for a day in the vineyards, many visitors often forget that there are plenty of first-class wine estates scattered throughout Cape Town’s suburbs, notably the Constantia wine route.

So instead of heading away from the Mother City, drive further into the suburbs and discover these fantastic gems which offer incredibly competitive wine tasting rates, and also afford beautiful views of the area.

1. Klein Constantia

Part of the original Constantia wine estate founded in 1685 by Simon Van der Stel, Klein Constantia is considered to be one of the top wine farms in the world. The ancient oak trees provide shade to picnic beneath, the historic manor house adds to the luxurious yester-year feel, and a crisp Sauvignon blanc or fruity Reisling will have you feeling at home in no time. One of the most popular estate offerings is the almost mythical Vin de Constance.

The Vin de Constance was created by Simon Van der Stel, and was one of the most expensive and sought-after dessert wine in the 18^th to 19^th century; with big names such as Napoleon Bonaparte, Charles Dickens, and Jane Austen lauding its flavour and properties. When the fateful phylloxera (a vine killing disease) arrived in South Africa, the vineyard had to shut down, and it was only in 1986 that the Vin de Constance reappeared, and reclaimed its place as one of the top ten wines in the world.

Wine Tastings: 10:00 – 17:00 (Monday – Saturday in summer)

2. Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia is the larger half of the original Constantia wine estate, and is the perfect spot to indulge in good wines while having fun with friends. You can choose between a vineyard and cellar tour, with either option giving you an informative (and tasty) introduction to their cultivars. Pinotage, Shiraz, Blanc de Noir, and their Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, are but a few of their popular vintages, with the citrus scented Gouverneurs Reserve quickly becoming a public favourite – it too is based on an exact reproduction of one of the estate’s historical labels.

If you’re feeling peckish, Simons or Jonkerhuis, the two on-site restaurants, will provide whatever it is you’re craving. With sumptuous menu items, hearty snacks, and gorgeous views, you can unwind here in style.

Wine Tastings: 09:00 – 17:30 (Daily)

3. Constantia Uitsig

Yet another portion of the original Constantia wine estate, still thriving today, is Constantia Uitsig – once called Constantia View. You’ll arrive to manicured gardens, water features, ancient oak trees, and glimpse the old slave bell still on-site, before turning your eyes to the mountain and taking in the sight of row upon row of vines stretching up towards the peak.

With numerous wine options and a laid back atmosphere, Constantia Uitsig is a great sunny-day destination. Apart from wines, they have an impressive gin collection which is well worth trying. After your tasting and tour, if you feel the need to unwind just that little bit more, visit their on-site spa and have your tension melt away at the hands of an able masseuse.

**You better hurry if you want to enjoy a day at Constantia Uitsig, as they are closing their doors to the public at the end of September 2013 – though hopefully, once the estate is sold, the new buyer will re-open this de-vine wine estate.

Wine Tastings from 09:00 – 17:00 (Monday – Friday) and 10:00 – 17:00 (Weekends)

Which of the above wine estates have you visited?

Main image credited to cogdog (Flickr)