How South Africa’s Franschhoek Has Become a Hot Wine-World Destination
With a stroke of his royal quill in October 1685, King Louis XIV of France inadvertently set South Africa up to become one of winemaking’s centers of excellence. By signing the Edict of Fontainebleau, the Sun King set off a mass exodus of Huguenots from the country. And while plenty immigrated to the Netherlands, England, and what would become the United States, many took their winemaking skills with them to South Africa. By the early 19th century, one of the areas they settled in had been renamed Franschhoek, the Afrikaans term for “French Corner.”
But for far too long, this town has played second fiddle to nearby Stellenbosch, which is 10 times as large. Don’t be fooled by the sleepy, laid-back vibe: This gorgeous corner of the Cape Winelands has recently turned into a luxury traveler’s dream. It’s an under-the-radar destination your friends probably haven’t been to yet, packed with great hotels, world-class dining, and some of the finest wine to be found anywhere on the globe.
“Franschhoek has always been one of the Western Cape’s most beautiful spots, and its wineries and hotels keep upping their game,” Jim Clarke, country manager for Wines of South Africa, tells Robb Report. “From classics like Boschendal and Anthonij Rupert to newer faces like Klein Goederust, Leeu Passant, and Black Elephant Vintners, the valley offers a huge range of great wine experiences.”
February is the perfect time to visit: With the grape harvest in full swing and summer in full bloom, wine-centric hotels and restaurants present a bounty of peak-season produce. The beautiful scent of fermentation hangs in the air, and the most traffic you’re likely to encounter is a tractor hauling a load of Shiraz, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, or Cabernet Sauvignon ready to be made into a local specialty.
Groups traveling together will be thrilled to know that one of the town’s finest properties, La Residence, recently opened Franschhoek House, a six-bedroom exclusive-use villa. Robb Report Travel Master Sandy Cunningham of Uncharted is an expert resource for setting up your trip. At right, she shares a few highlights first-timers shouldn’t miss.
Where to Drink It In
La Residence
The Royal Portfolio
This Tuscan-style villa is set on a 30-acre estate with dramatic views in all directions. Guests and locals alike come to dine at its restaurant, the Great Hall, which also pours its own exclusive wines.
La Petite Colombe at Leeu Estates
Courtesy of Leeu Estates
A sister restaurant to the original in Cape Town, La Petite Colombe’s fine cuisine is paired with impeccable service and breathtaking views.
Fromages de France
Perfect for a picnic, this shop on Franschhoek’s Main Road serves an unexpected, excellent selection of French cheeses and wines from around the globe.
La Motte
This winery offers Jan Franschhoek, a seasonal series of lunches and dinners served in a cottage surrounded by picturesque lavender fields.
Le Quartier Francais
Courtesy of Le Quartier Francais
This charming hotel in the center of town has only 25 gracious rooms and suites combining modern furniture with traditional touches. Book a tasting at the intimate, staff-owned bottle shop, Great Heart Wine.
Authors
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Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen
