Robertson Wine Valley

The Breede River valley around Robertson has something unusual for South Africa: limestone in the soil, laid down when this was seabed, which is why the district produces chardonnay and cap classique sparkling wine of a consistency that other regions envy, and why it also breeds racehorses - the calcium builds bone. The valley is drier and hotter than the coastal districts and relies on irrigation from the river, so it produces a wide range in volume as well, including chenin, shiraz and colombard. Robertson calls itself the valley of wine and roses and plants the town accordingly. Some fifty estates lie between Bonnievale, Robertson, McGregor and Ashton, most of them smaller and less polished than the Stellenbosch equivalents, with lower tasting fees and more chance of talking to the winemaker. Three festivals a year - in June, October and January - draw crowds.

What you actually see

• Limestone soils - old seabed producing chardonnay and cap classique.
• Horse studs - the same calcium that suits the vines building bone in racehorses.
• Smaller estates - about fifty farms, less polished and cheaper to taste at.
• The festivals - three a year, in June, October and January.

When to go

February to April for harvest; October for the wine and food festival. Two days.

Honest expectations

Summer heat in the valley is severe. The district is spread out and needs a car and a driver. Some estates keep short hours and close Sundays. It is less scenic than the mountain-enclosed valleys nearer Cape Town.

Nearby

Montagu is east on Route 62; McGregor is south over the hill.