Just 45 minutes from Cape Town, tucked beyond the rolling Paarl mountains, a historic wine farm has stepped boldly into a new era. Dekkersvlei Vineyards—formerly known as Mellasat and rooted in heritage dating back to 1693—has been reimagined into one of the Cape Winelands’ most exciting new destinations. Blending tradition, innovation, and immersive wine experiences, Dekkersvlei offers something refreshingly different from the typical Winelands visit.
Home of the World’s First White Pinotage
While many Cape wine estates boast deep roots, Dekkersvlei stands apart for a remarkable achievement: it is the birthplace of the world’s first White Pinotage. First crafted in 2007, this golden‑hued wine reinterprets South Africa’s signature red grape with elegance and originality. As Pinotage celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2025, Dekkersvlei invites visitors to step into the heart of this innovation and taste the story where it began.
A New Wine Journey: Five Expressions, One Iconic Grape
The estate’s signature experience—the Unique Five Pinotage Tasting—is a must for wine lovers. This guided tasting showcases the extraordinary versatility of Pinotage through five distinct styles:
- White Pinotage
- Méthode Cap Classique Pinotage
- Pinotage Rosé
- Classic Red Pinotage
- Coffee Pinotage
Sipped in sequence, the tasting becomes a celebration of South African creativity, craftsmanship, and the endless potential of the country’s most iconic grape.
A Working Wine Farm: Walk the Vineyards, Taste the Origin
Dekkersvlei is not a staged tasting room—it’s a living, working wine farm, and visitors are invited to experience it authentically.
The TASTE THE ORIGINAL tour is a 45‑minute guided walk through the estate’s vineyards, including Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, 70‑year‑old bush vines, and the prized Pinotage block. Guests explore the boutique cellar and maturation room, tasting wine at every stage of its journey—from fresh grape juice to raw ferment to a fully matured vintage.
The tour concludes with a tasting of three wines, including the world‑first White Pinotage—an unforgettable moment for any wine enthusiast.
A Brandy Experience to Rival Cognac
Beyond wine, Dekkersvlei is also home to exceptional Cape Potstill brandy, crafted in small batches and matured in oak barrels with meticulous care.
The Bespoke Brandy Experience takes visitors into the boutique distillery and underground cellar, offering a range of brandy expressions that highlight South Africa’s rich distilling heritage. It’s an immersive, sensory journey that elevates brandy into an art form.
A Destination for Families, Food Lovers & Day Trippers
Dekkersvlei is more than a wine farm—it’s a relaxed Winelands escape designed for long, unhurried afternoons.
Visitors can enjoy:
- A deli and shop with coffees, pastries, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and local curios
- Wood‑fired pizzas and indulgent milkshakes
- Shaded outdoor seating with views of vineyards stretching toward Paarl Rock
- A versatile function venue ideal for weddings, celebrations, and intimate events
It’s a family‑friendly destination where children enjoy milkshakes or a kids’ tasting while adults sip MCC under the Cape sun.
Close to Cape Town: Easy, Accessible, Unforgettable
One of Dekkersvlei’s greatest advantages is its proximity to Cape Town. Located just three minutes off the N1, it offers:
- A convenient half‑day escape for travellers
- A new favourite for locals
- A countryside experience without the long drive
With its pioneering spirit, deep heritage, and beautifully curated visitor experiences, Dekkersvlei Vineyards is fast becoming one of the Cape Winelands’ top must‑visit destinations.
Whether you’re a wine lover, brandy enthusiast, foodie, family, or traveller seeking something unique, Dekkersvlei offers a warm welcome—and a story worth savouring.
Part of the Aquila Collection
Now part of the Aquila Collection, Dekkersvlei strengthens the group’s vision of a seamless “one‑airport safari and wine itinerary” for Cape Town visitors. The portfolio includes:
- Big 5 game drives at Aquila, Inverdoorn, and Kuganha
- Exclusive escapes at Kudukloof and Kamagu
- Ocean‑view luxury at Marlin Manor
- Coastal comfort at Cape Agulhas Guest House
- And now, immersive wine experiences at Dekkersvlei
Together, these destinations create a network of bucket‑list experiences—all within easy reach of Cape Town—perfect for time‑sensitive travellers.
