March 2026

Pinotage on a Plate and in a Glass at Beyerskloof

Those of you who have read a few posts on our blog will know that when we mention we enjoy a glass of red wine, it’s always a Pinotage – and specifically Beyerskloof Pinotage.

Considering that Beyerskloof Pinotage is our favourite red wine, it’s actually quite surprising that we have never been to this wine estate. And even more so because it is very close to where we lived for almost 20 years. Now that we’re back in Cape Town after living for 3 years in East London, we have decided that a visit to Beyerskloof can no longer be postponed.

Beyerskloof is just 5km/3 miles outside Stellenbosch on the R304 and has a lovely view over the Simonsberg mountains.

View over the Simonsberg mountains from Beyerskloof

Compared to other wineries in the area, Beyerskloof is actually still very young. It started operating as a winery in 1988 and in 1995 the first Beyerskloof Pinotage was produced and bottled.

Vineyard at Beyerskloof

Vineyard at Beyerskloof

Entrance at Beyerskloof

Although most people visit a winery to taste wine, we originally came here for something really special. At The Red Leaf Bistro, visitors get the opportunity to eat their signature dish “The Pinotage Burger” – something we have always wanted to try.

The Red Leaf Bistro

Red leaf – symbol of Beyerskloof’s commitment to quality

The restaurant is not very big and because it’s such a popular place (probably thanks to that tasty hamburger), it is advisable to book in advance. It is easy to make an online reservation, thereby allowing you to see which time slots are available on the day of your visit. Tables can be booked indoors or outdoors. Interestingly, on the day of our visit, more than half of the tables were booked for a baby shower (of all things). We arrived just before the rush and could enjoy our meal without a crowd.

Outside table

Inside the restaurant

Inside the restaurant

View of the vineyard and mountains from our table

I ordered my favourite hot drink, Rooibos Cappuccino, while Berto enjoyed a cold Rock Shandy.

Our drinks

The red leaf of Beyerskloof is visible everywhere

We originally did not plan to have a starter, but the Bobotie spring rolls on the menu quickly changed our minds. The waitress also brought a complimentary herb and cheese pizza to our table. Isn’t the wonderful aroma of wood-fired pizzas one of the best smells there is?

Starters

And then it was time for that Pinotage Burger. It is the caramelised Pinotage onion reduction that gives this burger its unique flavour. The photo does not do the burger justice, but trust me, it was one of the tastiest burgers we have ever eaten.

Pinotage Burger & Chips

After a lovely lunch and friendly service, we decided to quickly pop into the wine tasting room – except that it wasn’t quick. Although we know the taste of Pinotage very well, it just felt right to do a wine tasting – after all, we are at a winery, right?

It was on a day like today that I was glad I did not have to drive home. Berto suggested that I make myself comfortable and taste a few wines, while he took photos in the wine tasting room.

Inside the wine tasting room

Wine barrels and wine bottles

Dusty wine bottles

Beyerskloof has won several prestigious awards for their wines. Their Pinotage regularly wins Gold and Double Gold awards. And more recently, they walked away with the first prize in the Absa Pinotage Rosé Award category with their Beyerskloof Pinotage Rosé 2025.

Beyerskloof’s awards over the years

I chose the Classic Tasting experience which includes both the Pinotage and Rosé. My conclusion? “Certified, stamped, and approved by yours truly”.

Chenin Blanc – Pinotage & Pinotage Rosé

Merlot – Cabernet, Pinotage & Synergy Cape Blend

Our visit to Beyerskloof exceeded our expectations in the most delicious way. That legendary Pinotage Burger was every bit as bold as the wines I tasted. Their hospitality, great food and wine made life taste just a little bit better.

Leaving Beyerskloof with happy memories (and a few bottles of wine)