Picnics beneath old trees with sauvignon in your glass

The name really says it all: in Afrikaans, Buitenverwachting means “beyond expectations” – and that is exactly what this beautiful wine estate delivers. It lies on the eastern slopes of the impressive Constantiaberg in the Constantia Valley, right on the doorstep of Cape Town.

The farm was founded in 1796 and was originally part of the Constantia estate established by Simon van der Stel. Since then it has changed hands many times – a farm full of history. But from 1825 onwards, when Ryk Arnoldus Cloete planted around 90,000 vines, Buitenverwachting began to flourish as a wine estate. Today, particularly aromatic sauvignon blancs thrive on the cool, south-facing slopes, delighting with notes of green pepper.

Of course, you can enjoy a wine tasting in the historic cellar with its traditional thatched roof – but Buitenverwachting offers much more. I personally love the picnics on the lawn beneath the impressive Norfolk pine, which is around 250 years old. The picnic spots on the lawn are allocated on a first come, first served basis, so it’s best to arrive early and secure yourself a lovely place.

And if you are into fine dining, Buitenverwachting will also hit the spot: at Beyond Restaurant, Peter Tempelhoff serves creative dishes of the highest standard. A truly remarkable place just a stone’s throw from Cape Town – transporting you into the tranquillity of nature and the finesse of beautifully composed wines.