Spookfontein Wines & Tastings

Tucked into the renowned Hemel-en-Aarde Valley between the Kleinrivier and Babilonstoring Mountains, Spookfontein is a 313-hectare farm where only 4% lies under vine and olive grove - the rest remains natural fynbos habitat. The wines reflect this exceptional terroir, with the rocky soil and timeless cold sea air from Walker Bay creating robust, distinctive flavors.

Unique Architecture & Setting

The standout architectural design of the cellar, restaurant and tasting room was intentionally built to blend with the natural landscape. The buildings feature curved edges, exposed brick, concrete and glass that harmonize with the surrounding mountains. Most visitors miss the structures from the road - a deliberate design choice that creates a surprising reveal upon arrival.

Wine Experience

The estate produces award-winning wines with many receiving Platter 4+ stars. Standouts include:

• Phantom - Their flagship Bordeaux-style blend
• Pinot Noir - Grown on decomposed koffieklip (iron-rich soil), creating an elegant style
• Cabernet Franc - Notes of dark berries and roasted pepper
• Méthod Cap Classique - Toasty brioche and lemon zest notes

Under winemaker Nelis Uys, Spookfontein implements 100% spontaneous fermentation with minimal intervention. The small-batch cellar allows for meticulous attention to detail, creating wines that express the land and climate without being overpowered by oak.

Restaurant

The restaurant offers a curated menu of locally-inspired dishes with both classic and refined options. Popular choices include the springbok served with polenta and chakalaka (a South African twist on traditional pap and vleis), the Asian-style Yellow Fin Tuna, and the pork ramen. There are no double seatings by design - guests can linger all afternoon while enjoying the Babilonstoring mountain views.

Visitor Tips

• Wine tasting hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-4:30pm, Sunday 10am-3:30pm (last tastings 30 minutes before closing)
• Restaurant hours: Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-3:30pm (extended to include Tuesdays during December-January)
• Oysters are available every weekend
• Cheese and charcuterie boards are available daily in the tasting room
• The farm offers self-catering cottages for overnight stays - book well in advance
• Dogs are welcome on the property

Winter visits are particularly cozy with a fireplace in the tasting room, while summer allows all doors to open for a seamless indoor-outdoor experience amongst the fynbos. The infamous Caledon to Hermanus mountain bike route runs through the farm for those seeking adventure.

For a complete Hemel-en-Aarde Valley experience, pair your visit with whale watching in season or explore other prominent wineries in the valley.