Buitenverwachting – Beyond My Expectations | Through My Wine Glass

The experience at Buitenverwachting was beyond my expectation!

My visit on Saturday was nothing short of incredible. From the minute I drove into the estate, I saw the golden vineyards, signifying the change of season. If you drive slow enough, you’ll catch a glimpse of the historical manor house.

Autumn in the Vineyards

The farm is located on the east-facing slope of the magnificent Constantia berg , merely 12km from False Bay and just over 30 minute from the northern suburbs. At this unique location you can expect an extensive wine portfolio of both complex and easy drinking wines. Buitenverwachting originally formed part of Constantia Estate, founded by Simon van der Stel. The history of the estate is so rich that it requires an additional blog post.

Map of Buitenverwaghting

Upon my arrival, I heard the birds chirping, I saw family picnics on the lawn and the smell of freshly brewed coffee on my nose. I knew this was the perfect way to escape city life.

We were greeted by Thinus at the entrance of the historic wine tasting area. The traditional thatched roof, white washed walls and rare yellow-wood ceilings adds so much character to this modern estate. We toasted with a very special bottle Buitenverwachting Brut MCC (90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay). I enjoyed drinking the Brut MCC while overlooking the lush green lawn and magnificent 250-year-old Norfolk Pine.

Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at R50.00 for 5 wines. Buitenverwachting also offers a Charcuterie platter with fresh baguettes to enjoy on the lawns. I could easily see myself lingering for hours while enjoying a bottle of wine with my loved ones.

Food

Shallot soup madumbi, crema and truffle, baguette chip

Pan fried sea bass: radish, mange tout, bell pepper, sweet potato, soya, sesame, shiitake, lime

Pan fried sea bass

The restaurant is situated in one of Buitenverwachting’s original thatch buildings and forms part of the historic complex of the wine estate. After a devastating storm in June 2017, the restaurant was renovated.

Natural materials such a untreated wood, leather, handcrafted tiles and unpolished marble now form part of the new design. The interior is a reflection of the estate offering clean, simple lines and classic elements. The surrounding natural wild fauna and farming landscape of Buitenverwachting serve as inspiration for Head Chef and Partner Edgar Osoijnik. The menu offers a variation of refined, rustic dishes and fine dining. Edgar Osojnik found his new home professionally and privately in Cape Town, 20 years ago. He mainly cooks international dishes in his gourmet restaurant.

Husseys Vlei Sauvignon Blanc 2015 

The wine has a pale lemon yellow colour and a bouquet reminiscent of green peppers combined with herbaceous aromas. The wine is dry, full bodied and has a long lingering finish.

Chardonnay 2016

This full bodied, rich Chardonnay offers a powerful citrus, giving it great elegance, with flinstone on the nose and mineral undertones. It has a good balance giving the wine a wonderful lingering finish.

We ended our day with a generous slice of cheese cake and cup of coffee at Buitenverwachting Coffee BloC, this quaint little coffee shop offers a variety of artisan coffees.

Buitenverwachting is a vibrant yet elegant wine farm boasting several restaurants and so much more.

They have wheel chair facilities and boast a variety of eateries to suite each palette, dietary requirement and budget. The area is popular with tourists, so make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Wine Tasting Tel: (021) 794 5190/1

Opening Times:

Monday – Saturday: 10h00 – 17h00

Closed on Sunday

Please note: No phone bookings

fFirst come, first served basis.

Restaurant Tel: 021 794 3522

April to October:
Tuesdays to Saturdays

Lunch: 12.00 – 14.30 (Last orders in the kitchen)
Thursdays to Saturdays Dinner:
18.30 – 20.00 (Last orders in the kitchen)

Coffee BloC Tel: 021 794 5190/01

Open from:

Monday – Friday: 8h00 – 17h00
Saturday: 8h30 – 15h00
Breakfast served: 9h00 until 11h00
Lunch served: 12h00 – 14h00