Best Wine and Food Pairings in Stellenbosch

Rubicon with Karoo Lamb Shank

In the golden afternoon light south of Stellenbosch, Meerlust Estate stands as a living legend. This historic farm has been in the Myburgh family for eight generations since 1756, and its gracious Cape Dutch manor is the oldest in the district. Meerlust's flagship wine, the Rubicon, was one of South Africa's first Bordeaux-style blends and quickly became a benchmark of local red wine quality.

It's a wine of depth and elegance – imagine aromas of ripe plum, cedar wood, and exotic spice unfolding from your glass. Such a stately red practically calls for an equally soulful dish. We love it paired with a slow-braised Karoo lamb shank infused with rosemary and garlic.

The Rubicon's dark fruit richness and refined tannins embrace the tenderness of the lamb, each sip drawing out new notes of herb and savoury depth. Take a bite of succulent lamb, follow with a sip of Rubicon, and feel how the flavors intermingle: the wine's dry, velvety finish picks up the rosemary's resinous perfume and the lamb's richness, creating a warm, comforting harmony that speaks to heritage and home.

Shiraz with Spiced Chocolate

Tucked away in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley, Waterford Estate offers a pairing experience that delights the playful spirit. The drive to Waterford leads you between citrus groves and fynbos-covered hillsides, arriving at a winery built around a charming Mediterranean-style courtyard. It feels like an oasis – terracotta tiles, a fountain trickling softly, and "South of France" inspired architecture that creates a tranquil backdrop for tasting.

Waterford is famed for its innovative Wine & Chocolate Pairing, a unique experience they pioneered in South Africa. One standout from this trio is the pairing of Waterford's Kevin Arnold Shiraz with a cinnamon-infused Masala Chai dark chocolate – a bite of the silky chocolate (rich with cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves) and a sip of the spicy Shiraz creates a sensuous dance of warm spices and dark fruit.

This isn't your typical food pairing, but it's one of Stellenbosch's most enchanting: a little adventurous, deeply indulgent, and perfect for a leisurely afternoon of discovery.

Syrah with Chargrilled Sirloin Steak

Under the ancient oak trees at Rust en Vrede, time seems to slow to the pace of a pleasant Stellenbosch noon. This renowned Helderberg estate is known for its statuesque reds – full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, sultry Merlot, peppery Shiraz – and even caught the attention of Nelson Mandela, who chose Rust en Vrede wines for his Nobel Peace Prize dinner.

Every midday, Rust en Vrede serves a Winemaker's Lunch that's beautifully uncomplicated and utterly delicious: a succulent sirloin steak with crisp French fries and a garden salad, paired with a generous glass of their Estate Syrah.

If red wine and red meat is a marriage, then Rust en Vrede's Syrah and steak are a long and blissful union – best enjoyed slowly, outdoors, with the breeze carrying laughter and the scent of vineyards.

The Syrah brings its dark berry depth and signature hint of black pepper, which echoes the steak's char and seasoning in the most satisfying way. Each sip amplifies the savory richness of the beef, while the meat's smoky edges make the wine's fruit and spice sing.

Chenin Blanc with Cape Malay Curry

Not all great pairings in Stellenbosch are about red meat or chocolate – some celebrate the Cape's aromatic spice and vibrant white wines. For a taste of local Cape Malay flavors, picture a dish like traditional chicken curry or a fragrant prawn curry simmered with warming spices, turmeric, and a touch of sweetness.

Spier Estate's 21 Gables Chenin Blanc is an exemplary choice: a full-bodied, oak-matured Chenin with notes of dried apricot, tropical fruit, and a creamy finish. The touch of natural sweetness in a ripe Chenin, and those fruit undertones, tame the heat and elevate the sweet spices in the curry. Meanwhile, the wine's acidity cuts through the curry's richness and refreshes your palate for each bite.

Served on a shady veranda with views of the Eerste River, this duo is bright and uplifting. You'll taste sunshine in the Chenin's fruit and feel the gentle heat of Cape spices, all balanced in harmony. It's Stellenbosch on a plate – a meeting of cultures and tastes, honoring the Cape's history through food and wine.