Nestled deep in the valleys of the Outeniqua Mountains lie the hidden treasure that is Jakkalsvlei; a family owned winery in the beautiful, world famous Garden Route. Jakkalsvlei is unique in being one of only a hand full of wines cultivated in this picturesque region.
Today Jakkalsvlei is enjoyed by people all over South Africa and boasts no less than 9 varieties and they recently launched the first of their craft beer range, the Jackal Lager. In 2015 Jakkalsvlei one 3 gold medals in the Michelangelo Awards and one silver Veritas award.
The new, state of the art, tasting hall (open 7 days a week) is fairly large with tables both indoors and outdoors with great views over the mountains and vineyards, making this establishment the ideal place to visit when it is sunny or pouring, and let's face it, who doesn't want to enjoy a glass of Jakkalsvlei Coffee Pinotage on a rainy day? Or a sparkly, chilled La Perlé Rosé on a hot day?
The huge, lush green lawn is ideal for kids to run themselves ragged on or they can play on the jungle gym and, if they’re a little bigger, they can play fetch with the resident border collie, Google, or the friendly Staffordshire terrier, Fifa.
Delicious picnic baskets are available at the restaurant to enjoy while watching the kids play, or to enjoy while watching the sun set over the mountains.
During April each year Jakkalsvlei hosts their popular ‘Sundown Festival’; a music, food, and wine festival to bid the summer sun farewell, and from the end of February to mid-March visitors can pick their own Hanepoot grapes by the basketful. Jakkalsvlei also plays host to an annual Mountain Bike Race and Trail Run and the single track MBT and hiking trail is open to the public year round.
Acclaimed Chef, Thomas Potgieter, recently joined the Jakkalsvlei team and apart from surprise special dishes at the tasting hall, he also tantalizes taste buds with the very popular seasonal food & wine pairings. Follow Jakkalsvlei on social media for updates on all festivals and events.
One reviewer said Jakkalsvlei is a ‘hidden gem’, but then again we can proudly say that the Garden Route in itself is a crown in South African areas to visit and Jakkalsvlei one of the glistening gems in that crown.