Annandale road out Stellenbosch way gently meanders its way past numerous wine estates. Stop in at a few of them by all means, but do keep on going because where Annandale road runs out you’ll discover Haskell Vineyards. I visited recently along with other wine media to celebrate their 20th birthday.
Originally called Dombeya, the estate was acquired in 2002 by American property tycoon, Preston Haskell, who renamed it Haskell Vineyards. In the twenty years since, Haskell Vineyards has firmly established itself as a home of exceptional wines. The focus at Haskell is to produce wines true to the terroir. To achieve this they’ve returned to the simplest form of viticulture, farming the soil and not the vine, and moving towards organic farming methods. Their approach has clearly paid off, because Haskell rakes in the wine awards.
There are various wine tasting options at Haskell where you get to experience not just wines under the Haskell label, but also their Dombeya range. Do just a wine tasting, opt for a selection of small plates to complement the tasting wines or order a cheese and charcuterie platter. As with most wine estates these days tastings are charged for, but unlike most other wine estates, your tasting fee is waived if you purchase six bottles of wine. Way to go Haskell!
You could just pitch and will be welcomed with open arms by their friendly tasting room staff, but if you want a private wine tasting and cellar tour, this can be arranged if you call ahead.
But don’t just go to Haskell for the wine, because missing out on dining at their renowned Longtable restaurant would be a pity. Sit outside on the terrace with exquisite views of the vineyards and mountains in the distance and tuck into a selection of smaller plates meant for sharing.
Think panko-spiced chevin with pickled beets or parmesan risotto with sugar snap peas, basil oil and almonds. In the mood for something meaty? Try their crispy pork belly with cauliflower and butternut pureé and orange jus. Something even meatier? Tuck into slow roasted rosemary lamb with truffle mash and wine jus. Something sweet? Vanilla panna cotta should hit the spot nicely thank you. Naturally there is a Haskell or Dombeya wine that perfectly pairs with every dish.
For something seriously laid back, visit them for their special pizza and wine on the lawn offering. It runs from November to March. Booking is advised. Just call them on 021 881 3895 or 060 997 9399.
Haskell’s winemaker, Rudolph Steenkamp. All images kindly supplied by Haskell Vineyards.
About this article: I only write about places and things I actually really like. Should I receive complimentary meals/tickets/diamonds, this will always be revealed. I’m not in the rubbishing business, so if something is not my cup of tea, I’ll simply not write about it (but I’ll keep the diamonds). Therefore this is not so much a review, as a personal recommendation of places and things I like.
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