Ataraxia Wines in Hemel-En-Aarde Ridge
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Ataraxia Wines Hemel-en-Aarde

4.7
·139 reviews·Hermanus, South Africa

Experience serene wine tasting with breathtaking valley views at Ataraxia Wines, a Hemel-en-Aarde gem.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Ataraxia Wines in Hemel-En-Aarde Ridge

Ataraxia Wines Hemel-en-Aarde

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience serene wine tasting with breathtaking valley views at Ataraxia Wines, a Hemel-en-Aarde gem.

4.7
(139 reviews)

"The tasting room is amazing - a beautiful space with stunning views - worth a visit just for this."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Navigate the Gravel Roads

The drive up is 'nervy' but worth it! Take it slow and enjoy the stunning valley views. :oncoming_automobile:

📅 Book Your Tasting

Secure your spot for an informative and delicious wine tasting experience. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Wine Lounge Views

The Wine Lounge Views

Tasting Room

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley from a modern, artsy tasting room.

Exceptional Pinot Noir & Chardonnay

Exceptional Pinot Noir & Chardonnay

Tasting Menu

Savor award-winning cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, celebrated for their finesse and depth.

The 'Serenity' Blend

The 'Serenity' Blend

Tasting Menu

Discover the 'Serenity' blend, a highly-rated wine that some visitors find even more compelling than their signature Pinot Noir.

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Planning Your Visit

The Scenic Drive to Serenity

The journey to Ataraxia Wines is part of the experience, winding through the stunning Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Be prepared for a 'nervy' drive on gravel roads, especially if encountering oncoming traffic.Reddit While the views are spectacular, take your time and drive cautiously to reach this serene wine destination.

Book Your Tasting Experience

Ataraxia Wines offers a unique tasting experience in a beautiful setting. It's advisable to book your tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you secure a spot and can fully enjoy the informative and delicious wine sampling.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sip, savor, and let the enchantment unfold 🍇✨ Join me for a magical winery experience, where every glass is filled with the rich flavors of the vineyard, and the sunset paints the sky in hues of warmth. Cheers to the beauty of moments steeped in grapes and golden rays. . . . #twilightinthevines #sirrometwinery #sirrometwines #winerydate #brisbanedateideas #dateideas
@agirlwhoadventures
19.9K likes • 938.6K views

🚗 Navigate the Gravel Roads

The drive up is 'nervy' but worth it! Take it slow and enjoy the stunning valley views. :oncoming_automobile:

📅 Book Your Tasting

Secure your spot for an informative and delicious wine tasting experience. :calendar:

Bike, wine, and sail… all in one day? Yes, please! 🚴‍♀️🍷⛵ Join the most epic adventure in Barcelona: Ride through stunning landscapes, taste exquisite wines at a beautiful vineyard, and sail along the coast. Because life’s too short to choose just one experience! Picture the perfect day: ✅ Cycling through breathtaking scenery 🚴‍♂️ ✅ Discovering the secrets of fine wine 🍇🍷 ✅ Relaxing with the sea b...
@sailingexperiencebcn
1.3K likes • 17.1K views
Just back from a visit to the stunning Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, where the landscape is as elegant as the wines 🍇🌿 We had the pleasure of visiting Ataraxia, a winery known not just for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but for its serene setting and thoughtful winemaking. This cool-climate pocket near Hermanus continues to set the pace for South African wine, with neighbouring names like Cre...
londonwineacademy
32 likes • 958 views

🖼️ Art & Wine Ambiance

Enjoy local art displayed in the tasting room, adding a modern touch to the serene setting. :art:

🍷 Explore the Range

Don't miss their Chardonnays and the highly-praised 'Serenity' blend. :wine_glass:

Young Blood, Young Vines & Young Wines! 🍇🩸🍷 The young blood is Matthew - son of Ataraxia winemaker Kevin Grant on their family-run farm Ataraxia Wines situated in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Ataraxia's young wines from young vines are: 🍷 Young Blood Pinot Noir - Medium-bodied, smooth, dry pinot noir with fruity, juicy flavours. 🍷 Young Blood Chardonnay - Medium-bodied, fruity and spicy, white ...
nlrwine
9 likes • 164 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Navigate the Gravel Roads

The drive up is 'nervy' but worth it! Take it slow and enjoy the stunning valley views. :oncoming_automobile:

📅 Book Your Tasting

Secure your spot for an informative and delicious wine tasting experience. :calendar:

🖼️ Art & Wine Ambiance

Enjoy local art displayed in the tasting room, adding a modern touch to the serene setting. :art:

🍷 Explore the Range

Don't miss their Chardonnays and the highly-praised 'Serenity' blend. :wine_glass:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(139 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ataraxia Wines for its breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere of its tasting room. The wines, particularly the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, are highly regarded for their quality and character. While the journey involves navigating gravel roads, the overall experience is considered well worth the effort.

"Gréât tasting here - the pourer was a real expert. The tasting room is amazing - a beautiful space with stunning views - worth a visit just for this. Make your own mind up about the wines but a highlight for me was their 2022 Pinot Noir - surprisingly powerful, and a little smokey and spicy. Well worth a drive up the Valley."

Carl King

"Quaint and artsy. Road to wine lounge can be very nervy to drive, especially if there is an oncoming vehicle. Server was very knowledgeable and friendly. Wish there were some pairings or wine by the glass offered. Beautiful views."

Efcee Buys

"Great wine estate to visit when touring the Hemel en Aarde. Great range of wines, with their top wines also being available to taste. Their Chardonnays are my favourites. Great service and the views are fabulous. A slightly arduous journey to get there but it’s worth it"

Lisa Harlow

What People Like

Stunning valley views
Exceptional wines
Serene tasting room

What People Dislike

Nervy gravel road
Limited food pairings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ataraxia Wines is located in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. The drive from the main road involves gravel roads that can be 'nervy' and challenging, especially with oncoming traffic.Reddit It's recommended to drive cautiously and allow extra time for the journey. The scenic route is part of the overall experience.Instagram

Yes, the road leading to the wine lounge is described as 'very off-road' and 'nervy' by visitors.Reddit While beautiful, it requires careful driving, particularly if you encounter other vehicles. It's advisable to have a vehicle suitable for gravel roads.

Many visitors opt to drive themselves to Ataraxia Wines, enjoying the scenic route through the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.Instagram Consider using a GPS or navigation app to guide you. For those who prefer not to drive, local tour operators in the Hermanus area may offer wine route excursions.

Ataraxia Wines is situated in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, which is a short drive from the coastal town of Hermanus. The exact travel time can vary depending on road conditions and your starting point within Hermanus, but it's generally considered an accessible destination for a day trip.

While specific turn-by-turn directions can vary, expect to navigate onto unpaved roads as you get closer to the winery. It's best to rely on your GPS and look for signage indicating the winery. The 'lofty rise' mentioned in descriptions gives a clue to its elevated position.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book your wine tasting in advance at Ataraxia Wines.Reddit This ensures you can secure a spot, especially during busy periods, and allows the winery to prepare for your visit, offering a more personalized and enjoyable experience.

Ataraxia Wines is typically open for tastings and visits. While specific hours can vary, they are often open on weekdays and sometimes on public holidays like Heritage Day.Instagram It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date opening times.

A reserve tasting at Ataraxia Wines typically consists of 5 wines and costs around R75 per person.Reddit Prices can be subject to change, so it's advisable to confirm the current tasting fees when making your reservation.

A standard tasting at Ataraxia Wines usually includes a selection of their wines, often featuring their signature Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as other varietals and blends like 'Serenity'.Reddit The tasting is often described as informative and delicious.

Some reviews suggest that wine by the glass might not be readily available, with a focus on structured tasting experiences.Reddit It's best to inquire about this when booking or upon arrival if you prefer to order individual glasses.

📸 📸 Photography

The entire Hemel-en-Aarde Valley offers stunning backdrops, and Ataraxia is no exception. The tasting room itself provides incredible panoramic views,Reddit making it a prime spot for photos. Capture the rolling vineyards, the unique architecture of the tasting room, and the expansive valley vistas.Instagram

Absolutely! The 'Skyfields' location Instagram and the elevated position of Ataraxia Wines make it an ideal spot to witness and photograph spectacular sunsets painting the valley. The golden hour light enhances the natural beauty of the landscape.TikTok

Yes, you can take photos inside the tasting room. The space is described as artsy and modern, with local artwork on display,Reddit offering a unique visual element to your photography. Remember to be respectful of other guests and the staff.

Landscape photography is a must, capturing the vastness of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Portrait photography with the vineyard or valley as a backdrop also works beautifully. The serene atmosphere lends itself to capturing moments of quiet enjoyment.

Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcomed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. For professional or commercial shoots, it's best to contact the winery in advance to inquire about their policies.

🍽️ 🍇 Wine & Dining

Ataraxia Wines is renowned for its cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.Instagram Visitors also rave about their 'Serenity' blend, with some finding it even more exceptional than their marque Pinot Noir.Reddit Their wines are praised for intricate character, finesse, and depth.Instagram

While Ataraxia Wines focuses on the wine tasting experience, some reviews mention a desire for food pairings or wine by the glass.Reddit It's advisable to check with the winery directly about any current food offerings or if they allow outside picnics. Some special events, like cellar dinners, may be organized.Instagram

Yes, you can purchase wines directly from Ataraxia Wines. Many visitors buy bottles to take home, especially after enjoying a particular vintage during their tasting.Reddit This is a great way to relive the experience.

Ataraxia's wines are a product of the unique terroir of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, a cool-climate region ideal for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.Instagram Winemaker Kevin Grant is a passionate 'terroirist,' focusing on soil and the natural expression of the grapes.Instagram+1

While not always explicitly mentioned for standard tastings, special events like cellar dinners are sometimes hosted.Instagram For regular visits, it's best to inquire about any available food pairings or if you can bring your own snacks to enjoy with your wine.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Ataraxia Wines is primarily a wine destination, families can still enjoy the scenic beauty of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. The drive itself offers beautiful views that children might find interesting. The tasting room's artsy atmosphere could also be a point of curiosity. However, it's important to note that the focus is on wine tasting, and specific child-friendly amenities might be limited. Consider bringing quiet activities for children during the tasting.

🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Ataraxia Wines is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. The name itself, meaning 'serene state of mind,' perfectly sets the mood.Instagram Enjoy a wine tasting with breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, especially during sunset, which paints the sky in warm hues.TikTok The tranquil atmosphere and exquisite wines create a perfect setting for shared moments and quiet conversation.

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For serious wine lovers, Ataraxia is a must-visit. The winery is celebrated for its cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, showcasing finesse and depth.Instagram Winemaker Kevin Grant's dedication as a 'terroirist' ensures authentic expressions of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley's unique soil.Instagram Explore their reserve tastings and discover why their 'Serenity' blend is a standout.Reddit

📸 Photography Buffs

Ataraxia offers incredible photographic opportunities. The tasting room provides stunning panoramic vistas of the valley,Reddit perfect for landscape shots. Capture the golden hour light during sunset for dramatic effects.TikTok The modern, artsy interior also adds a unique visual element to your photos.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Winemaking at Ataraxia

Ataraxia Wines, nestled in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, is celebrated for its dedication to producing elegant, cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.Instagram Winemaker Kevin Grant, a member of the Cape Winemakers Guild, identifies himself as a 'terroirist,' emphasizing his deep connection to the soil and the natural expression of the grapes.Instagram This philosophy ensures that South Africa's wines are authentic and not imitations of other regions.Instagram

The name 'Ataraxia' itself, derived from Greek for a serene state of mind free from worry, perfectly encapsulates the winery's ethos and the experience it offers.Instagram+1 The wines are noted for their intricate character, finesse, and depth, reflecting the unique microclimate and soil composition of the 'Skyfields'.Instagram+1 Visitors often find the tasting experience to be both informative and delicious, with knowledgeable staff guiding them through the range.Reddit

From the 'Young Blood' series, showcasing wines from young vines,Instagram to their highly-regarded reserve tastings,Reddit Ataraxia offers a diverse portfolio. The commitment to quality and the serene setting make it a standout destination for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic South African wine experience.

Experiencing the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley

The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, meaning 'Heaven and Earth' in Afrikaans, is a picturesque wine-growing region renowned for its cool-climate varietals, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.Instagram Ataraxia Wines is a prominent estate within this valley, perched on a 'lofty rise' offering breathtaking views.Instagram The journey through the valley itself is a visual treat, with rolling vineyards and dramatic landscapes.

Beyond Ataraxia, the Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Route boasts several other esteemed wineries, including Bouchard Finlayson, La Vierge, Newton Johnson, and Creation Wines.Instagram Exploring these estates allows visitors to experience the diverse expressions of the region's terroir and winemaking styles. Many visitors combine a visit to Ataraxia with stops at other nearby wineries for a comprehensive wine-tasting tour.Reddit

While the drive can be 'nervy' on gravel roads,Reddit the serene beauty and exceptional wines of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley make the effort entirely worthwhile. It's a destination that truly lives up to its heavenly name, offering tranquility and world-class wine.

The 'Serene State of Mind' Experience

The name 'Ataraxia' is central to the winery's identity, meaning 'a serene state of mind, free from worry and preoccupation'.Instagram+1 This philosophy is reflected not only in the tranquil ambiance of the tasting room and its stunning valley views but also in the wines themselves. Visitors often describe the experience as peaceful and rejuvenating.

The tasting room, with its modern, artsy feel and local artwork, provides a unique backdrop for enjoying the wines.Reddit The 'Skyfields' location Instagram further enhances this sense of calm and elevation, offering a perspective that feels removed from the everyday hustle. It's a place where one can truly 'sip, savor, and let the enchantment unfold'.TikTok

Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual visitor, the atmosphere at Ataraxia encourages a moment of stillness and appreciation. The combination of exceptional wine, breathtaking scenery, and a mindful approach to hospitality creates an unforgettable experience that embodies its namesake.

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