Stellenbosch: Wine Blending Experience with Barbeque Pairing

If you’re after a taste of how South Africa’s Cape Winelands actually craft their wines, this Wine Blending Experience at Middelvlei Wine Estate promises a hands-on adventure paired with a hearty braai. While this experience is geared toward wine enthusiasts, it offers a chance to create a custom bottle and enjoy a classic South African feast — but it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

What we love about this experience is the chance to actively participate in winemaking, the warmth of the Momberg family’s hospitality, and the mouthwatering braai menu that highlights local culinary traditions. However, one consideration is that this is a red wine-only activity, which may not appeal to everyone, especially if your palate skews toward whites or rosés.

This tour suits those curious about wine blending, fans of authentic South African food, or travelers wanting a more personalized and relaxed experience in Stellenbosch. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive, and delicious outing, this could be a great fit—and if you’re not a big red wine fan, just be aware it’s very much a red-focused activity.

Key Points

  • Hands-on winemaking allows you to blend your own red wine to take home.
  • Authentic South African braai offers a hearty, traditional feast.
  • Warm hospitality from the Momberg family enhances the experience.
  • Limited to red wine, so it’s ideal for red wine lovers.
  • No included transport, so plan accordingly.
  • Booking in advance is required, with flexible payment options.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

The Middelvlei Wine Estate’s blending experience is designed to introduce visitors to the art of wine creation in a relaxed setting. Hosted by the friendly and welcoming Momberg family, this activity is more than just tasting; it’s about crafting your own personal bottle of red wine, choosing from a curated selection of blending components. Afterward, you’ll be rewarded with a South African braai — a true celebration of the estate’s culinary heritage.

The highlight is definitely the opportunity to blend your own wine, which offers something tangible to take home and, perhaps, brag about. Pair that with a traditional South African braai feast, and you’ve got a memorable day in the Cape Winelands that combines education, creativity, and hearty food.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The experience kicks off with a warm welcome from the Momberg family, who introduce you to the estate and its history. Once settled, you’re led to a dedicated blending station filled with various components—think of it as a DIY wine lab. Here, you’ll learn about different grape varietals and how they combine to influence the flavor profile of your wine.

Blending your own red wine is the core activity. You’ll select from a curated set of components, experimenting with different proportions to tailor your perfect red. The process is accessible whether you’re a wine novice or a budding connoisseur. As you mix, the estate’s staff provides insights into how each element affects taste, helping you craft a well-balanced blend.

After finalizing your creation, you’ll bottle your wine, which you get to take home as a personalized souvenir. This adds a tangible reward to your effort and makes for a memorable keepsake.

Following the winemaking, it’s time for the South African braai feast. The menu celebrates local flavors with dishes like lamb chops, boerewors, honey & mustard chicken sosatie, braaibroodjie (barbecue sandwiches), and sweet pampoenkoekies (pumpkin pancakes). To round out the meal, there are sides like potato salad and green salad, all served in a relaxed outdoor setting. Guests describe the food as mouthwatering, with the estate’s culinary heritage shining through in every bite.

The entire experience usually lasts around a few hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the food, chat with your hosts, and soak in the estate’s tranquil surroundings.

The Value of the Experience

At $72 per person, this experience offers a lot for wine lovers looking for a hands-on activity. The price covers your custom red wine blend, the full braai feast, and your take-home bottle of wine, making it a reasonably priced way to enjoy a full afternoon of entertainment and culture.

What makes it particularly good value is the inclusion of delicious local cuisine, which many similar activities charge extra for. Plus, the chance to create a personal wine adds an element of novelty and keepsakes that go beyond typical tastings.

However, since the experience doesn’t include transportation, it’s best suited for those staying nearby or organized with private transport. Also, keep in mind it’s tailored mainly for adults of legal drinking age; families with children or those expecting a broader variety of wine types might find it less suited.

What Reviewers Say

From the single review available, Devon shared, “We are a family that does not enjoy red wine, if we had known that this is a red wine activity only, we would not have booked it at all.” This highlights the importance of checking the activity focus before booking—if you’re not into red wines, this might not be the best fit.

On the positive side, the experience’s highlight appears to be the delicious food and warm hospitality. Guests appreciate the estate’s friendly atmosphere and the chance to relax and enjoy authentic South African flavors.

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Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour appeals most to red wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those wanting a personal touch in their wine experiences. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or intimate travelers who enjoy engaging activities and cultural cuisine. Since it’s geared toward two people, larger groups should check whether they can book multiple slots.

It’s less suitable for travelers with dietary restrictions, non-red wine drinkers, or those seeking a big wine cellar tour—this experience is about interaction and flavor rather than extensive tastings or comprehensive estate tours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, interactive experience that combines wine craftsmanship with a traditional South African meal, this blending adventure at Middelvlei delivers. The chance to personalize your own wine adds a special touch that makes it more memorable than standard tastings. Plus, the estate’s friendly hosts and hearty braai menu ensure a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

However, be aware that it’s very focused on red wines, so if your tastes run elsewhere, or you prefer a variety of wine styles, you might want to explore other options. Also, since transportation isn’t included, plan to arrange your own transfer to make the most of your day.

In essence, this experience is perfect for red wine lovers craving an authentic hands-on activity combined with great food. It’s a chance to learn, create, and enjoy some of South Africa’s best flavors in a cozy, family-run setting.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for families with children?
This experience is designed for adults of legal drinking age, so it’s best suited for those 18 and over. Children may not find it engaging or appropriate.

Does the price include transportation?
No, transportation to and from Middelvlei Wine Estate is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer.

Can I book this experience on the day of?
Booking in advance is required, so it’s best to reserve your spot ahead of time to secure availability.

Is this experience suitable for groups larger than two?
The activity is designed for two, but larger groups can often book multiple sessions—check with the provider for specifics.

What types of wine will I be blending?
You’ll be creating a red wine blend, using a curated selection of components, but no mention is made of other wine types.

What is the food like?
The meal is a traditional South African braai, featuring lamb chops, boerewors, chicken sosatie, and classic sides, all described as delicious and hearty.

How long does the experience last?
Typically, it lasts a few hours, giving ample time for blending, eating, and chatting with your hosts.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor dining and blending activities. No special attire is necessary.

Can I bring home the wine I create?
Yes, you get to bottle your own blend as a keepsake, which you can take home after the experience.

This kind of experience offers a mix of education, culture, and indulgence, making it a worthwhile addition to any Stellenbosch itinerary—just be sure it matches your wine preferences!

You can check availability for your dates here: