Calitzdorp Wine Cellars - Image 1
1 / 3

Calitzdorp Wine Cellars

4.6
·80 reviews·Calitzdorp, South Africa

Discover the 'Port Capital of South Africa' with stunning Karoo views and exceptional fortified wines.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere, local events

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Calitzdorp Wine Cellars - Image 1

Calitzdorp Wine Cellars

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere, local events

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the 'Port Capital of South Africa' with stunning Karoo views and exceptional fortified wines.

4.6
(80 reviews)

"Exceptional red wines and superb Port, with stunning views and delicious, affordable food. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Your Tasting

Reservations are recommended, especially for groups, to ensure a spot.

🚗 Scenic R62 Drive

The journey along the R62 is part of the experience. Enjoy the Karoo landscapes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Port Wine Tasting

Port Wine Tasting

TTT Cellars

Savor the rich, fortified wines that Calitzdorp is famous for. A must-try for any wine enthusiast.

Scenic Karoo Views

Scenic Karoo Views

Various viewpoints

Breathtaking vistas of the arid Karoo landscape provide a stunning backdrop to your wine experience.

Local Delicacies

Local Delicacies

Tasting Rooms

Enjoy delicious snack platters and local treats, like mini lamb pies, perfectly paired with your wine.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Karoo Charm

Calitzdorp is known as the 'Port Capital of South Africa.' Expect a relaxed pace and stunning Karoo landscapes. Bookings for tastings are recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Plan Your Wine Journey

Many visitors arrive via the scenic R62. Consider combining your visit with the 'die Wyntreintjie' tourist train for a unique experience, which often includes stops at local cellars like TTT Cellars. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, local events
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter, more personal service
Crowd
Low
When
During Succulent Festival
Why
Unique local event
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🍷🍇🍾 #Meme #MemeCut #Meme #wine #winecellar
@margueriteleone
720.2K likes • 4.3M views

🎯 Book Your Tasting

Reservations are recommended, especially for groups, to ensure a spot. Instagram

🚗 Scenic R62 Drive

The journey along the R62 is part of the experience. Enjoy the Karoo landscapes. Instagram

Heaven? And this is just a small part of this cellar 😊 @thewinelobbyist #wine #wineinspires #winelover
@wine.inspires
49.3K likes • 1.2M views
Welcome to the Tasting Room at TTT Cellars in Calitzdorp on the R62.🍷🍷🍷 . . . . @calitzdorpwine #wine #diewyntreintjie # snackplatter #southafricanwine #tastingroom #karoowine #calitzdorpwine #localislekker #thingstaketime #wineproduction #portwine #touriganacional #chardonnay #cheninblanc #pinotagerosé #timekeeper #palominowine #dessertwine #rubycabernet  #caperuby #haneport #calitzdorp #calitzdo...
tttcellars
24 likes • 233 views

🍷 Red Wine Excellence

If you love red wines, Calitzdorp's Tinto, Pinotage, and Shiraz are exceptional. Reddit

🍽️ Delicious Platters

Don't miss the snack platters; the mini lamb pies are a standout! Reddit

Book your seat on the Calitzdorp "wyntreintjie " this Saturday and visit the attractions in Calitzdorp including TTT Cellars where you can enjoy one of their charcuterie boards or snack cones, as part of your winetasting experience. die.wyntreintjie booking- 083 881 9334 🍷 . . . . @calitzdorpwine#wine #die.weyntreintjie # snackplatter #southafricanwine #karoowine #calitzdorpwine #localislekker #t...
tttcellars
33 likes • 243 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Your Tasting

Reservations are recommended, especially for groups, to ensure a spot. Instagram

🚗 Scenic R62 Drive

The journey along the R62 is part of the experience. Enjoy the Karoo landscapes. Instagram

🍷 Red Wine Excellence

If you love red wines, Calitzdorp's Tinto, Pinotage, and Shiraz are exceptional. Reddit

🍽️ Delicious Platters

Don't miss the snack platters; the mini lamb pies are a standout! Reddit

🚂 Wyntreintjie Train

Consider the 'die Wyntreintjie' for a fun, guided wine tour. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(80 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Calitzdorp Wine Cellars for their exceptional wines, particularly the Ports and red varieties, and the stunning Karoo scenery. The friendly staff and delicious, affordable food platters, especially the mini lamb pies, are frequently highlighted as positives. Some guests noted a lack of cozy ambiance on colder days and a desire for more technical knowledge from sales staff, but overall, the quality of wine and the beautiful setting make it a highly recommended destination. Reddit

"Fantastic place. Lovely staff, great wine and spectacular view.
Definately visited again."

Riaan Laas

"Stunning views from here. It was a cold August afternoon and hardly any visitors so we had the restaurant to ourselves. We were given some blankets to keep warm. I just missed the coziness of a fireplace. Vetkoek & mince was good and the chicken wings were also good. We didn't do any wine tasting so cannot comment on the wines. Friendly staff."

Enid Son

"We stopped for lunch. Service was quick and friendly. Lunch platter was delicious, especially the mini lamb pies. PS: Please make these full size and sell them frozen. Would have bought 10 to take home if I could. Beautiful views. Will visit again."

Elsabé Moller

What People Like

Exceptional Port and red wines
Spectacular Karoo views
Delicious and affordable food

What People Dislike

Lack of fireplace coziness
Sales staff knowledge gaps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Calitzdorp Wine Cellars are typically accessed via the R62, a scenic route through the Karoo. Many visitors drive their own vehicles, while others opt for organized tours or the 'die Wyntreintjie' tourist train which stops at various cellars. Instagram+1

Yes, Calitzdorp is easily accessible by car via the R62. The roads are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant driving experience through the Karoo landscape. Instagram

While direct public transport to individual cellars might be limited, the 'die Wyntreintjie' train offers a unique way to tour the area and visit multiple wine attractions. Instagram

The 'die Wyntreintjie' is a tourist train that operates in Calitzdorp, offering a charming way to explore the local wine cellars and attractions. It often includes stops for wine tasting and snacks. Instagram

Yes, Calitzdorp can be visited as a day trip, especially if you are traveling along the Garden Route or from nearby towns. However, staying overnight allows for a more relaxed exploration of the wine region. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book your wine tastings in advance, especially if you are visiting on a weekend or with a group, to ensure availability. Instagram+1

Opening hours can vary, but generally, wine cellars are open during daytime hours, often from mid-morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the specific cellar's hours before your visit. Instagram

While entry to the cellar premises is usually free, there is typically a fee for wine tastings and any food platters ordered. Reddit

Calitzdorp hosts events like the Succulent Festival and Island Wine and Olive Festival, which are great opportunities to experience the local culture and wines. Instagram+1

Yes, you can purchase wine directly from the cellars. Many visitors enjoy buying their favorite wines to take home. Instagram

🎫 🍷 Onsite Experience

Calitzdorp is renowned as the 'Port Capital of South Africa,' specializing in fortified wines. They also produce excellent red wines like Tinto, Pinotage, and Shiraz. Reddit

A wine tasting typically involves sampling several of the cellar's wines, often accompanied by insights from staff. You can also order snack platters to complement your tasting. InstagramReddit

Yes, many wine cellars offer delicious food options, including popular snack platters with items like mini lamb pies and charcuterie. InstagramReddit

The atmosphere is generally relaxed and welcoming, with stunning Karoo views. Some visitors mention a cozy, rustic charm, while others appreciate the friendly staff. Reddit

Beyond wine tasting, you can enjoy the beautiful Karoo scenery, explore local festivals, and sometimes find unique offerings like the 'die Wyntreintjie' train tours. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The sweeping Karoo landscapes offer incredible photo opportunities. Look for dramatic skies, unique flora, and the rustic architecture of the wine cellars themselves. Instagram

Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the wine cellars, especially in tasting rooms and barrel cellars, but always be respectful of the environment and other visitors. TikTok

Landscape photography, wine-related shots (tastings, bottles), and capturing the unique Karoo architecture are popular themes. TikTokInstagram

The natural Karoo light can be dramatic, especially during sunrise and sunset. Indoor lighting in cellars can vary, so be prepared for different conditions. TikTok

Capture the vastness of the Karoo from elevated viewpoints and the charming details within the historic wine cellars. The 'die Wyntreintjie' train also offers unique perspectives. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Calitzdorp is primarily a wine destination, families can still enjoy a visit. Some cellars offer non-alcoholic options or juice for children. The open spaces and scenic views can be engaging for younger visitors, and the 'die Wyntreintjie' train is often a hit with kids. Pack some snacks and be mindful that the focus is on wine tasting, so keeping children entertained might require some planning. Instagram

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Calitzdorp is a perfect stop for those traveling along the R62. You can easily incorporate a visit to one or two wine cellars for a tasting and a quick snack platter. The scenic drive itself is a major draw. Consider the 'die Wyntreintjie' for a structured tour if you have limited time but want to experience multiple venues. Instagram+1

🍷 Wine Connoisseurs

For serious wine lovers, Calitzdorp is a must-visit, especially for its Port. Seek out cellars known for their traditional methods and exceptional quality. Engage with the winemakers or knowledgeable staff to learn about the nuances of fortified wine production. Don't overlook the excellent red table wines, which often showcase the unique terroir of the Klein Karoo. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Calitzdorp Port

Calitzdorp proudly holds the title of the 'Port Capital of South Africa,' and for good reason. The unique climate and soil of the Klein Karoo region are ideal for cultivating the grapes used in fortified wines. Winemakers here focus on producing rich, complex Ports, often with notes of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. Visitors can explore various styles, from ruby and tawny Ports to vintage Ports, each offering a distinct tasting experience. Reddit

Many local cellars, like TTT Cellars, are dedicated to perfecting these fortified wines. They often use traditional methods alongside modern techniques to ensure quality and consistency. The passion of the winemakers is evident in every sip, making a Port tasting in Calitzdorp a truly memorable event for enthusiasts. Instagram+1

Beyond Port, Calitzdorp wineries also produce exceptional table wines, particularly reds such as Shiraz and Pinotage. These wines often reflect the terroir, offering robust flavors and a smooth finish. Exploring these varieties alongside the signature Ports provides a comprehensive taste of what Calitzdorp has to offer. Reddit

Experiencing the Karoo Landscape

The journey to and around Calitzdorp is as much a part of the experience as the wine itself. The R62, often referred to as the 'World's Longest Wine Route,' winds through the starkly beautiful Karoo semi-desert. This arid landscape, with its unique flora and dramatic rock formations, offers a sense of vastness and tranquility that is distinct from other wine regions. Instagram

Visitors often remark on the spectacular views, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light paints the landscape in warm, earthy tones. The air is clean, and the silence is profound, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Many tasting rooms are strategically located to maximize these scenic vistas, allowing you to sip your wine while gazing out at the expansive Karoo. Reddit

For a truly unique perspective, consider the 'die Wyntreintjie' tourist train. This charming mode of transport allows you to soak in the scenery at a leisurely pace while being transported between various attractions, including wine cellars. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the rugged beauty of the Klein Karoo and its unique wine-producing environment. Instagram

Culinary Delights and Pairings

Calitzdorp wine cellars aren't just about the wine; they also offer delightful culinary experiences that perfectly complement your tasting. Many establishments serve delicious snack platters, often featuring local produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked bread. These platters are designed to enhance the flavors of the wines and provide a satisfying light meal. Instagram

One particular highlight frequently mentioned by visitors is the mini lamb pies, described as incredibly delicious and something people would happily buy frozen to take home. This emphasis on local, hearty fare adds another layer to the Calitzdorp wine experience, making it a well-rounded gastronomic adventure. Reddit

Pairing your wine with these local delicacies is highly encouraged. The rich, fortified Ports, for instance, pair wonderfully with mature cheeses and dried fruits, while the robust red table wines can stand up to heartier dishes. Exploring these pairings can unlock new dimensions in both the food and the wine. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2