Winter in Stellenbosch has a charm all of its own. The air turns crisp and everything invites you to slow down and appreciate. Situated on the Helderberg slopes, Stellenzicht Wines becomes the perfect winter escape where flavour, warmth and nature come together in a uniquely relaxed setting. This is not a place for rushing. It’s a place to lean into the season, glass in hand, surrounded by good company and even better pairings.
The Stellenzicht Wines Pod is unlike anything else in the winelands. Its sleek, modern design opens up to panoramic views of the vineyards and fynbos-covered hills, with a welcoming deck that invites you to settle in and stay awhile. Come for the view, stay for the wine and the food.
Their signature wood-fired pizzas are an all-time favourite, best enjoyed fresh from the oven alongside a bold red or crisp white. For a more curated taste experience, indulge in one of their generous cheese and charcuterie platters. Think warm slices of ciabatta, local cheeses, artisan meats, olives, seasonal fruit and that irresistible jalapeño jelly – the ideal balance of sweet, salty, creamy and tangy.
Stellenzicht Wines and Chocolate Pairing
When it comes to a sweet winter treat, Stellenzicht’s Wine and Chocolate Pairing is the highlight. A luxurious adventure in flavour designed to awaken your senses. The wines are expertly matched with handcrafted pralines, highlighting the way wine and chocolate mirror and elevate each other. Both are rich in tannins and texture, and when brought together, something extraordinary happens. The tannins in the wine are softened by the cocoa butter, while the sweetness of the chocolate is grounded by the wine’s structure, creating a balance that lingers long after each bite.
Stellenzicht Wines Chardonnay Chocolate Pairing
For those who love white wine with complexity and elegance, this trio of Chardonnays is a revelation.
Stellenzicht Cap Classique
Made from 100 percent Chardonnay, this elegant Cap Classique is vibrant and refreshing. It opens with aromas of crisp apple and grapefruit, followed by fine bubbles that carry flavours of citrus zest over a creamy, mineral backdrop. The wine spends 18 months on the lees, adding depth and texture while preserving its lively character. Paired with a cookies and cream praline, the combination is playful yet refined, with the praline’s sweetness enhancing the wine’s zesty freshness.
Thunderstone Chardonnay 2024
Inspired by ancient stone tools unearthed on the farm, once believed to be “dondersteentjies” or thunderstones, this Chardonnay tells a story rooted in time. Crafted with precision, half of the wine is aged in stainless steel for freshness while the other half spends 10 months in seasoned French oak, adding gentle richness and texture. Bursting with notes of ripe apricot and orange zest, it is beautifully paired with a peaches and cream praline that highlights the wine’s vibrant fruit character in every bite.
Acheulean Chardonnay 2024
Named after the Acheulean hand axes discovered in the soils of Stellenzicht Wines, this flagship Chardonnay is a tribute to the ancient history beneath the vines. It is carefully matured for 12 months in a combination of French oak barrels and amphora pots, resulting in a wine that is elegant, textural and complex. Expect bright citrus notes of lime and lemon layered with delicate minerality and a touch of honey on the finish. Paired with a vanilla, lemon and cream praline, this combination brings out the wine’s refined acidity and lingering depth.
Stellenzicht Wines Varietal Range Chocolate Pairing
All things red and paired with three red wines and three chocolate pralines.
Silcrete Cinsault 2022
Named after the silcrete-rich soils where the grapes are grown, this Cinsault reflects the unique character of its rocky origin. Sourced from vineyards in Paarl, it offers vibrant notes of cherry and raspberry with a soft, juicy palate. The wine is matured for 15 months in French oak barrels, adding subtle structure while maintaining its delicate fruit profile. Paired with a raspberry tart white chocolate praline, the combination is bright and playful, with the chocolate enhancing the wine’s red berry charm.
Tristone Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Named for the three distinct vineyard blocks on the farm that contribute to its complexity, this Cabernet Sauvignon is layered and expressive. 30% of the wine is matured in new French oak while the remainder rests in older barrels, allowing the fruit to shine through with added depth. Aromas of cassis and cedar lead into a palate of fine tannins, hints of pencil lead and a long, elegant finish. Paired with a dark chocolate praline infused with cassis, hibiscus and blackcurrant, the result is a bold and aromatic pairing that lingers beautifully.
Arenite Syrah 2022
Taking its name from the arenite-rich sandstone soils on the farm, this Syrah is bold, structured and full of character. It showcases deep red and dark fruit with subtle hints of allspice, brought to life through whole bunch fermentation that adds a savoury edge. The wine is matured for 15 months in French oak barrels, resulting in a lush, well-rounded palate with silky tannins and a long finish. Paired with a toasted hazelnut praline, the combination is rich and comforting, with the nutty sweetness enhancing the wine’s warm spice and depth.
Winter at Stellenzicht Wines is all about slowing down and enjoying good wine, great food and even better company. The wines and pairings bring out the best of the season, making every visit feel special and comforting. Come spend a winter afternoon and discover why Stellenbosch tastes so good when the air is crisp and the fires are warm.
Contact Details:
Email: winepod@stellenzicht.com
Tel: 021 569 0362
Visit: stellenzicht.com
Upper Blaauwklippen Road, Stellenbosch
Categories: Stellenzicht Wines
