97 of 800 is Fort Simon Wine Estate in Stellenbosch

If I wasn't made aware of this wine farm before, I would never have found it - and it's right on my doorstep on Bottlelary road in Stellenbosch. Fort Simon Wine Estate is fondly referred to as the Fortress on the Hill, I mean, it literally is a medieval style castle!

The Tasting Room

Feel like you are whisked away in time to when Princesses were saved by brave Knights as you cross the moat to access the castle tower. A large fireplace and stone interior with dim lighting makes you feel like have been transported to a foreign land.

Built in 1967 by Dr Simon Uys, Fort Simon Wine Estate was established in 1997 by owners, Renier, Piet and Anna Uys in commemoration to the hard work & passion invested into the estate by Dr Simon Uys, father of the sons and husband to Anna. The maiden vintages were produced in 1998 and consisted of two cultivars, Sauvignon Blanc and a Merlot/Pinotage blend, the latter earning the estate’s first Veritas Double Gold Medal.

There is no need to book as the tables are first come, first served. The tables can fit 6 people or perhaps smaller groups at the bar. The wine is served to you and you can choose which wines to taste from quite a long list of both local wines and exports.

The Tasting room also expands into a function hall which is often booked for Weddings and Birthdays.

The Wines

Fort Simon is best known for their full-bodied Red Wines including awarded Merlot, Pinotage, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. I particularly enjoyed the Shiraz Red Wine 2015 and even ended up purchasing a few bottles.

"This deep ruby coloured wine gives you ripe blackcurrant aromas, complimented with soft raspberry, caramel and vanilla flavours.  A well-structured red wine with ripe, soft tannins and a long finish." As described by the Winemaker Mr Dirk Tredoux.

I had spent a good few hours tasting the wine and I must say, the serving size was excellent. All in all, a great day spent with the girls. Afterwards, we popped across the road to Bellevue for Some Pizza :)

Contact Fort Simon Wine Estate

Google Maps is currently giving incorrect directions, the correct turn-off is at Fishers Road (not the road leading up to Kaapzicht and Mooiplaas). The road is signposted and is best for off-road vehicles due to the long gravel road.

Phone:  +27 21 906 0304

Email:  info@fortsimon.com