Waterkloof Estate scoops tourism award

Waterkloof wins 2010 Tourism Award of the Helderberg Chapter at the Cape Chamber of Commerce

Waterkloof, the contemporary 'cellar in the sky' outside Somerset West, with its arresting architecture and priceless view over False Bay, excelled at the 2010 Business Awards of the Helderberg Chapter of the Cape Chamber of Commerce as overall winner in the Tourism category.

This spectacular estate, perched high on the slopes of the Schapenberg, scooped the Tourism Award in recognition for directly stimulating significant tourist interest in the Helderberg region as a destination. These annual Business Awards acknowledge and celebrate businesses and properties in the Helderberg basin that have distinguished themselves for their extraordinary achievements, service delivery and their contribution to the local economy during the past year.

Cocooned in a contemporary glass and concrete sphere, Waterkloof's aesthetic masterpiece features a state-of-the-art gravitational cellar - home to an impressive collection of European style wines - a slick wine tasting lounge, and a gorgeously appointed restaurant, which welcomes fine dining experiences in a 10-metre high glass promontory. All set against the backdrop of sweeping views of vineyards and fynbos splendour, the Hottentots Holland and Helderberg mountains and the full expanse of False Bay all the way to Cape Point in the distance.

Waterkloof's wines are shaped by an amphitheatre of bio-dynamic vineyards, some rising up to 300 metres above sea level, with each cellar gem defined by a unique character and sense of place. Here diverse, fertile soils, fanned by the cooling breezes of the nearby ocean, ensure perfect conditions for slow ripening, allowing the grapes to develop their intense flavours, complexity and finesse. The entire estate is treated as a holistic entity and Waterkloof, a strong follower of sustainable farming, steers clear of conventional pesticides and fertilisers. By utilising pure horse power in its vineyards, the estate not only improves the structure and quality of the soils, but also reduces its carbon footprint by relying on fewer heavy machinery and tractors in and around its aristocratic vines.

Eager to share its slice of the Cape Floral Kingdom in conjunction with classic wines and exceptional cuisine, Waterkloof also hosts picturesque wine tastings on horseback. Hosted in partnership with the adjacent Orion Stables & Riding Academy, enthusiasts are invited to saddle up for a 2 hour meander through indigenous flora, culminating in a wine tasting and Ploughman's lunch at the estate's restaurant. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, these fun rides are suitable for young and old and can accommodate a group of up to 10 people. The entire horse riding experience costs R420 per person and includes wine and a delicious meat and cheese platter.

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