The
Stellenbosch vineyards form part of some of the most beautiful landscapes in
the country and these are the places I find the inspiration behind my art.
There is a
special kind of tranquillity that I experience in nature and it’s this
stillness that allows me to hear the distinct voice of my imagination.
By taking
moments to absorb the beauty of my surroundings I can clearly see in my mind’s
eye the visions I wish to bring to life on my canvas.
There are
certain times of the day when the sun has a way of painting the mountains in
glorious shades of gold, casting unimaginable hues across the gorgeous green
valleys.
With this
combination of colour resting softly against the backdrop of a brilliantly blue
sky, I am inspired to create a palette which honours natures flawless display
of splendour.
The pure
joy I experience from expressing myself and my love for nature through painting
is matched only by the feeling I get from sharing it with the world.
So, I would
like to share with you some of my favourite Stellenbosch vineyards so that you
too can experience their sheer magnificence.
Oldenburg
Wine Estate which is nestled amidst the Banghoek mountains, offers some of the
most outstanding views of the well-renowned Franschhoek mountains.
Here you
can enjoy boutique wines that have been meticulously handcrafted in small
quantities with nothing but perfection as the goal.
Alto Wine
Estate is known for producing award winning wines and is situated in the very
heart of the Stellenbosch winelands.
It’s here
where you get to witness exceptional views of the Helderberg Mountain range.
Established
in 1694, Rust en Vrede which means rest and peace, has existed for more than
320 years.
This
gorgeous estate produced the wine that was chosen by President Nelson Mandela
to be served at the Nobel Peace Prize dinner in 1993.
Rust en
Vrede is situated on the lower slopes of the Helderberg mountains and you can
even enjoy a humble view of Table Mountain when you glance towards the West.
Lourensford
has a special place in my heart as its cellar is the humble home of 3 of my
large oil paintings.
The estate
is 4000 hectares large and is outlined by the Hottentots Holland and Helderberg
mountains. This area is also home to the Cape Leopard.
A large
portion of this land is used for the farming of the Protea, which is South
Africa’s national flower and one of my favourite subject matters.
What makes
Lourensford extra special is their dedication to sustainability and maintaining
the land’s precious biodiversity while never compromising on the quality of
their wine production.
Tucked away
in the Franschhoek valley, La Motte offers some of the most breathtaking views
of the surrounding mountains.
Exuding
richness in history and producing world class wines, this is one of my
favourite places to visit. It ignites a sense of nostalgia which words simply
cannot describe.
La Motte is
also driven by a passion for preservation and environmental management is their
highest priority.
Visitors
can enjoy a stunning 5km circular hike which explores the incredible abundance
of indigenous fauna and flora in the areas surrounding the estate.
For those
who love home-made breads, their farm shop produces a variety of only the best
traditional farm style breads, artisan style.
Situated on
the lower slopes of the Simonsberg mountain which is internationally recognised
as the area which produces some of the best wines in South Africa.
It’s as
though this estate was handcrafted by the heavens for the sole purpose of wine
production by providing the perfect soil and climate for growing grapes.
If you’re a
lover of gorgeous red wine, then I suggest you pay this beautiful estate a
visit. While you enjoy their tasting experience, take a moment to observe my
Mandela portrait which is proudly hanging in their tasting room.
Producing
gorgeously crafted boutique wines, this intimate cellar offers a full range of
wines, including white, red, rosé and Method Cap Classique.
It’s a
lovely estate, placed perfectly in the valley of Franschhoek, where I held one
of my art exhibitions.
There is no
shortage of beautiful views when you visit this beautiful little estate and I
highly recommend enjoying their country side cuisine at their contemporary
style restaurant.
These are
only a few of the best Stellenbosch vineyards found in and around the beautiful
winelands of this area.
Not only
will you experience world class wines when you visit them, but you will also be
visiting the special places they have in my heart.
While
you’re in the area, I warmly invite you to visit my art gallery in Stellenbosch
where you can see on my canvas my personal interpretation of what the angels
painted on theirs.
Pop in at any time or contact me to arrange a personal tour of my gallery.