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The Psychedelic Vineyards

Wine Tasting with a Twist

by Hanna Swanepoel

When considering wine tasting, you may conjure images of serene vineyards, elegant glasses, and a refined ambience. But what if we told you there's a place where wine tasting takes a psychedelic twist? Welcome to Stellenbosch, South Africa's renowned wine region, where traditional meets unconventional in the most delightful way.

A Kaleidoscope of Flavors
With its picturesque landscapes and world-class wineries, Stellenbosch is a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. However, hidden amoung the rolling hills and historic cellars are a few wineries that are turning the wine-tasting experience on its head. They're not just offering wines; they're offering a kaleidoscope of flavours and sensations.

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Wine and Chocolate: A Match Made in Heaven
At Waterford Estate, wine tasting isn't just about sipping Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. It's a multisensory journey that pairs wine with handcrafted Belgian chocolates. Yes, you heard that right—chocolates.
Upon arrival, you're handed a portfolio of chocolates, each designed to complement a specific wine. As you savour a sip of Cabernet Sauvignon, you might nibble on a dark chocolate infused with orange peel. The interplay of flavours between the wine and chocolate creates a sensory experience that's nothing short of spectacular.

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Sound and Sip: Delheim's Wine and Jazz
Delheim Wine Estate takes wine tasting to a different dimension by pairing it with live jazz music. Set amidst the vineyards, their 'Worth the Journey' jazz brunches are a feast for the ears and the taste buds.

Imagine sipping a glass of Sauvignon Blanc while the smooth sounds of a saxophone serenade you. As you sample a plate of gourmet treats, the music enhances the wine's complexity. It's a harmonious union of auditory and gustatory pleasures, creating a memorable tasting experience.

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Paint and Pinotage: The Winery That's an Art Studio
At Middelvlei Wine Estate, you can unleash your inner artist while sipping Pinotage. This family-owned winery offers a 'Wine and Art Experience' where you can paint your own masterpiece.

With a canvas, paints, and brushes in hand, you'll be guided by a local artist to create your work of art. And yes, there's plenty of Pinotage to inspire your creativity. Whether you're an experienced artist or just dipping your brush into the world of painting, it's a fun and unconventional way to enjoy wine.

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Bubbles and Boules: Warwick's Winelands Picnic
Warwick Wine Estate adds a touch of French flair to your wine tasting with a game of pétanque. Set in their lush gardens, the 'Bubbles and Boules' experience combines sparkling wine with a friendly game of boules.

As you sip on Warwick's acclaimed MCC (Méthode Cap Classique), you can engage in a spirited pétanque match with friends and fellow visitors. The enthusiasm of the wine matches the lively atmosphere of the game, making it an ideal outing for a sunny day.

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A Journey Through Time and Terroir
Boschendal Wine Estate takes you through the vineyards, where history, terroir, and wine come together in perfect harmony. Their 'Wine Garden Tours' offer a unique exploration of the estate's rich heritage.

Your guided tour will lead you through the vineyards, past historic buildings, and into the wine cellar. Along the way, you'll learn about the estate's commitment to sustainable farming and winemaking. The tour culminates in a wine tasting showcasing Boschendal's vineyards' diverse terroirs, making it a truly educational and immersive experience.

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Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Stellenbosch's Psychedelic Vineyards prove that wine tasting can be so much more than swirl, sniff, sip, and spit. These wineries are pushing the boundaries, fusing tradition with innovation, and inviting visitors to explore the world of wine in unconventional ways. 

So, the next time you find yourself in Stellenbosch, consider going beyond the ordinary and embarking on a sensory adventure that will leave your taste buds tingling and your senses delighted.