Travel from Cape Town on the N2 and route R310 to Stellenbosch. Almost an hour's journey brings you to this picturesque University town. At the first stop, site guides will introduce the Institute of Wine Biotechnology and the department of Oenology and Viticulture at Stellenbosch University. The next stop is at Distell's JC le Roux Estate for a Methode Cap classique tasting and light lunch. In the auditorium, a presentation will be given on the type of research and technical development undertaken within Distell. A tour of the laboratories and a bottling line will follow. You are then transported to the Van Ryn Brandy Cellar for a presentation on Brandy, and the tour ends with a Brandy tasting. The return to Cape Town is via an alternative route, on R304 and the N1 freeway to give a different perspective on the countryside and Cape Town.
The Institute of Wine Biotechnology (IWBT) was started in 1995 as part of a knowledge partnership between Stellenbosch University, the wine industry and Government. It forms part of the Dept of Viticulture and Oenology in the faculty of AgriSciences at Stellenbosch University. Distell is the largest wine, RTD and spirits producer in South Africa, and its award winning wine and distilled products are exported widely internationally. Consequently it employs a unique integration of local winemaking tradition, and the most modern technology.
Passenger Information:
Tour Code
TT01
Minimum
10 passengers (Maximum 30)
Vehicle
Air-conditioned coach to suit group size.
Included
Transportation, site visits, entrance fees, wine tasting and lunch.
Excluded
Gratuities, items of a personal nature, other beverages.
Activity Level
Moderate. Walking and some steps.
Clothing
Informal, but suited to factory entry. Flat, closed comfortable shoes (some wet surfaces). Light jacket for outdoors. When necessary, outer protective clothing will be provided in certain areas.
Notes
One is entering areas of moving machinery and laboratories, and safety must be observed. All delegates participate in this tour at their own risk.
