Eagles Nest Wines | Wine & Safari

EAGLES NEST WINES

Eagles Nest was initially purchased by the Mylrea family in 1984. Unfortunately, the harmful fires of the year 2000 did extensive damage to the farm. It was later revived and varieties that are most suitable for the unique terroirs were planted. During the colonial period, there was a section of land along the Constantia mountain range, used as a refreshment station between Wynberg and Hout Bay. Currently the farm produces wines such as Shiraz, Merlot, Viognier and the Little Eagle Rose amongst others, which is a testament to the unique terroir and attention to detail.

I’ve visited Eagles’ Nest several times over the last few years, this was the most exciting one to date. Eagles’ Nest is cradled in a valley on the slopes of Constantia, which forms part of the World’s Heritage Site, Table Mountain.

Tall trees and a river surround the tasting area, which is situated in the valley of the estate. The tasting area is completely hidden behind these tall trees, creating a unique wine experience. This gives you an idea of the distinct and unique tasting experience Eagles’ Nest has to offer.

Wine Safari

Never in my previous visits did it ever occur to me that I couldn’t see the vineyards from the tasting area. I blame the copious amounts of merlot and baguettes. Try to imagine my reaction they told us we going on a wine safari, witnessing the Constantia mountain range and vineyards first-hand – priceless!

Eagles Nest has some of the steepest vineyards in the country, which rises from 140m to 406m above sea level. The safari ride covers most of this terrain. They take sustainable farming methods very seriously, and it’s evident when you are passing through. On the safari, you’ll be exposed to different soil types and rocks found in the vineyards. All vineyards are irrigated to manage plant stress during the dry summer months. True to its name, there are many eagles in the vineyards and we even managed to spot a few. A safari ride is a splendid idea when you want to do something different in the Constantia Wine Route.

We enjoyed the 2017 Little Eagle Rose 400m above sea level, a magical sensory experience! The beautiful aroma of strawberry mousse and cranberry was refreshing. The palate is light with hints of sweet red berry fruit. Best enjoyed on its own or with family and friends.

Wines & Food

A visit to Eagles Nest would not be complete without tasting 3 of my favourite wines.

2017 Viognier

The 2017 Viognier was released a few weeks before our visit. This wine is sumptuous and enticing on the nose, complimented by citrus aromas of lime and mandarin skin. I enjoyed the way the peachy flavours developed in the glass. The palate is fresh and clean with a lingering finish.

2013 Merlot

I’m a huge Merlot fan and the 2013 vintage did not disappoint. Expect a dark plum rim with mocha notes on the nose. This wine is well balanced with great body and rich spiciness. The 2013 Merlot is ready to drink and ages beautifully.

Last but not least the well decorated bottle of 2014 Shiraz

2014 Shiraz

A deep dark garnet rim appears in your glass, with aromas of freshly crushed red pepper kernel, intense blueberry and subtle black cherry on the nose which are delicately entwined with a faint smoky wisp and baking spices. On the palate, creamy mouth filling tannins integrated with pepper spice to embrace your taste buds and deliver a delicious, savoury flavour sensation.

Guest can enjoy tasty platters and soup.

We enjoyed a filling antipasto platter for two priced at R300.00. Some of the treats on the platter included marinated olive cream cheese, Winelands brie, cremalat white cheddar and chorizo. The platter is filling and the baguettes are made to perfection. (I’m passionate about baguettes but I’ll leave that for another day). You can order a local biltong platter at R140.00, a deli cuts platter at R165 or an artisan cheese board at R185.00.

With Winter fast approaching visitors can enjoy the scrumptious beef goulash soup including a baguette at R95.00. This pairs very well with the 2013 Merlot. Eagles’ Nest caters for all, even non-alcoholic drinkers (like my husband). He enjoyed a delicious butternut soup and a baguette for only R60.00.

Tasting Room

The tasting room is open every day of the week from 10h00 – 16h30. Last tasting is offered until 16h00 and the kitchen closes at 16h00.Wine tasting cost R65.00 per person.

Eagles Nest is kid and pet friendly, catering for the whole family.

Eagles Nest is situated at Old Constantia main road, Constantia. For more information, call 021 794 4095 – email info@eaglesnestwines.com

or visit the website.

Disclaimer: I was invited by Jared on behalf of the Constantia Wine Route and treated to a complimentary tasting and platter. This review is entirely based on my honest opinion and thoughts. Thank you Constantia Wine Route for the invite.