Coming soon… showcase offering unparalleled tastings and events at one location

South Africa’s first wine route has teamed up with a leading Stellenbosch wine bar to bring a first-of-its-kind experience to the City of Oaks. The new Simon Wine Emporium in association with Stellenbosch Wine Routes is – as far as can be ascertained – the first such a retail experience, run by winery members and dedicated to promoting the region’s vineyards.

 We are exceptionally proud of this latest milestone. As an integral part of Wine South Africa, Stellenbosch has a 50-year history of promoting local wines to established wine lovers and potential newcomers alike.

 The Tasting Emporium continues not only this tradition, but also the tradition of collaboration that has always been part of the success of Stellenbosch Wine.

 Open every day of the week, the Simon Wine Emporium in association with Stellenbosch Wine Routes stocks 100 vinous specimens. Furthermore, it incorporates old vine wines from Stellenbosch, administered by the Old Vine Project; and, a special collection of the region’s legendary brands.

The location of the emporium, on the corner of Van Ryneveld and Van Riebeeck Streets in Stellenbosch, is especially significant. The Simon in its name is a nod to the town’s founding father, Simon van der Stel, while the 18th century building that is its home lies at the nexus of Stellenbosch’s vibrant cultural district.

De Warenmarkt is home to a collective of diverse merchants – now including the showcase of wines from Stellenbosch. It is inspired by the Cape of Good Hope’s legacy as trade post along the maritime route that led to the alluring Spice Isles.

 The collection stocked by the Simon Wine Emporium in association with Stellenbosch Wine Routes has been carefully chosen by expert committee to reflect the gamut of the region’s wines and cultivars. This includes ensuring representation of Stellenbosch’s sub-routes: the Greater Simonsberg, Stellenbosch Berg, Helderberg, Stellenbosch Valley and Bottelary Hills.

 Visitors will be assisted by wineries’ own tasting room staff seconded to provide first-hand expertise at the emporium. The service will later be incorporated into the Stellenbosch Wine Routes’ sommeliers program.

 A daily theme will guide tastings and promotions as a point of interest while tasting notes will be available digitally too. The primary themes are Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage and rotational themes will include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, red blends, etc.

Wines are for sale at cellar door prices and may be ordered online too, for delivery internationally.

The emporium is open Monday to Saturday, from 11:00 to 18:00, and Sundays, 11:00 to 15:00.