Backsberg Family Wines Unveils an Unmissable Summer Experience at its Franschhoek Cellar Door
Perfectly timed with the arrival of summer, Backsberg Family Wines welcomes guests to its Franschhoek cellar door, one of the valley’s hidden gems and a ‘must-visit’ for all wine lovers. Tucked off the vibrant main road and with encompassing mountain views, this fifth-generation winery boasts over a century of heritage with a fresh new energy, inviting visitors to explore a space where tradition meets sustainable innovation.
Backsberg’s line-up of summer whites and rosé wines promises to elevate every occasion, from leisurely lunches to al fresco picnics. With a legacy dating back to its pioneering release of the first bottled Chardonnay in 1980 and as South Africa’s first carbon-neutral winery since 2006, Backsberg has long been a custodian of enduring quality. This summer, their portfolio of three diverse ranges ensures a wine for every palate and occasion, from refreshing whites and rosés to their selection of award-winning reds, each crafted for accessible yet refined enjoyment.
With a variety of guided tasting and pairing menus to choose from, one visit to Backsberg Family Wines is never quite enough to fully experience all offerings. For first-time visitors or those on holiday, however, the “Circumventing the Cape” tasting presents the perfect introduction. This curated experience highlights wines designed to complement sun-drenched days, setting the tone for a memorable summer escape. Guests can enjoy Franschhoek trout with citrus-caper yogurt alongside the Gravel Road Chenin Blanc, a smoked snoek samosa paired with Ella Pinotage Rosé, and Cape Malay-spiced goat cheese on bruschetta with the Citrus Hill Chardonnay. Each tasting selection enhances the appreciation of both food and wine, showcasing Backsberg’s knack for harmonious pairings.
Food lovers are truly spoiled for choice, with a variety of gourmet grazing boards and a newly launched seasonal menu featuring favourites such as Black West Coast Mussels, simmered in a creamy Sauvignon Blanc sauce—an ideal pairing with Smuggled Vines Chardonnay or the Open Roast Beef Sandwich on ciabatta for a heartier choice. The Smoked Chicken, Cranberry & Apple Salad offers a refreshing contrast, best enjoyed with a chilled glass of Ella Pinotage Rosé. This dry-style wine showcases the delicate nature of Pinotage grapes, a nod to the feminine elegance crafted by winemaker Alicia Rechner, who has passionately guided Backsberg's production for over 22 years.
Families will feel right at home here, where a welcoming atmosphere and heartfelt hospitality is complemented by a small but thoughtful selection of dishes designed just for children, including gourmet milkshakes available by pre-order. Extending into the early evening, the cellar door is open until 6pm Wednesday through to Sunday, one of the few wineries to offer that extra hour for sensational sipping as the sun sets over the iconic Mont Rochelle Mountain Range.
For those unable to visit in person, Backsberg wines are available nationwide via select retailers or online making it easy to enjoy your favourite wines no matter where you are. Perfect for alleviating festive-season stress and adding a touch of magic to your at-home entertaining.
Embrace the season with Backsberg Family Wines, celebrating the simple pleasures of good food, fine wines, and the company of loved ones.
