Nestled in the picturesque Constantia Valley, Steenberg Estate offers a wine-tasting experience that masterfully balances warmth, sophistication, and a deep connection to its surroundings. There are four well curated wine tasting options to choose from; we experienced their Flagship Tasting.
The journey began with a glass of Steenberg Noir Cap Classique, a lively sparkling wine with delicate bubbles, crisp green apple, and a hint of brioche. It was a delightful way to ease into the tasting, promising an experience both elegant and approachable.
The first still wine, the Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc 2023, was a revelation. With subtle aromas of asparagus and freshly cut grass, it carried a clean, herbaceous character, balanced by its gentle acidity and a smooth finish. Following this, the Semillon 2023 brought a richer profile, offering notes of ripe peaches and apricots intertwined with soft oak undertones – a harmonious blend of fruit and structure.
Transitioning to reds, the Nebbiolo was a standout. Its ruby-red hue hinted at the vibrant flavours within – think tart cherries and wild strawberries, underpinned by delicate floral notes and soft tannins that lent it elegance and charm. Finally, the Catharina, a bold red blend, was a celebration of depth and complexity, with layers of dark berries, subtle spices, and a velvety finish that lingered long after the last sip.
Our sommelier, Wesley, elevated the experience. His deep knowledge of both the wines and the broader history of Cape Town’s winemaking made each glass more meaningful. With a knack for storytelling, he guided us effortlessly through the tasting, helping us connect the wines to the land and the history behind them.
The highlight of the visit came with a tour of the cellar. Followed by a walk among the towering vats and production spaces before stepping out to a secluded vantage point overlooking the mountain-framed vineyards was a moment of awe. It was the perfect culmination of a thoughtfully curated journey – one that blended the sensory delights of wine with the serene beauty of the Constantia Valley.
We then followed the experience with lunch and discovered that at one of the estates grand restaurants, Bistro Sixteen82, every dish is a celebration of local produce and sustainable sourcing. The menu reflects the chef’s commitment to fresh ingredients, with a strong emphasis on ethical sourcing – from free-range eggs to organic vegetables and sustainably caught fish. It’s clear that Chef Kerry Kilpin, inspired by her travels and passion for seasonal, flavourful food, is dedicated to creating dishes that not only taste incredible but also support a healthier planet.
Our meal began with freshly shucked Saldanha oysters, served with their legendary shallot vinaigrette. The oysters were rich, creamy, and perfectly briny, some of the best I’ve had.
Next came my Pan-Fried Chicken Livers, a refreshing twist on a well-known classic, served with sticky miso and orange egg noodles, along with a crisp peanut slaw. The combination of flavours was unexpected and utterly delicious. My companion opted for the Tempura Prawns, paired with a tangy kimchi noodle salad, shitake mayo, and coriander lime vinaigrette – another perfectly balanced dish with vibrant Asian-inspired flavours.
For mains, my companion enjoyed a West Coast Mussels special, supersized to a main course and served in a rich and creamy coconut, turmeric, and coriander sauce. It was an indulgent dish, full of comforting flavours. I chose the Sirloin Steak, paired with creamy cauliflower, crumbed mushrooms, spinach, green bean salsa, and a delicately flavoured porcini jus. Every element was beautifully prepared, with the juicy steak complemented by the earthy richness of the mushrooms and a wonderful depth of flavour from the jus.
Dessert was a highlight of the meal. We shared a Chocolate Marquise with macadamia streusel, summer berries, popped sorghum, and macadamia ice cream—decadent and indulgent and masterfully balanced to not overpower us with a bitter dark chocolate flavour. But the real standout to me was the Warm Crispy Almond Brioche, topped with maple syrup, citrus compote, and caraway ice cream. The combination of textures and flavours was heavenly, making it my favourite dish of the day.
What sets Bistro Sixteen82 apart is not only the delicious food and wine but the setting. In a serene, airy space with stunning views, each dish is thoughtfully paired with a Steenberg wine to elevate the experience from great to greater. From breakfast to dinner, every meal feels like a special occasion without a hefty price tag. The focus on local, sustainable ingredients makes every bite not just enjoyable but also aligned with a deeper respect for the environment—a perfect balance of flavour, freshness, and nature.
For bookings:
Wine tasting
Open: Monday – Sunday 10.00 to 18.00
Phone: 021 713 2211
Cost: The Bubbly Tasting at R160 p/p for 3 Steenberg sparkling wines
The Classic Tasting at R200 p/p for Steenberg Chardonnay Cap Classique as well as 4 wines from their Classic range
The Sauvignon Blanc Tasting at R230 p/p – a tasting of their full range of Sauvignon Blanc
The Flagship Tasting at R250 p/p for Steenberg Pinot Noir Cap Classique followed by 4 flagship wines
Bistro Sixteen82
Phone: 021 205 3866