African tourism has drastically risen in recent years. Many have been vacationing in Africa to see the diverse wildlife, beautiful scenery and experience a life totally unlike their own.
Share this article
Until recently, these tourists were not coming to Africa for the wine. There are many amazing African wineries on the rise, feeding the needs of their local population while branching out globally. A visit to these 5 wineries will broaden your knowledge of Africa and wine making in the continent. If you are in one of these glorious African countries on your next visit, place these African wineries on your itinerary. Given the unique climates across these African nations; wine from this continent is diverse and unlike any other produced in the world.
The African Wineries:
Bushman Rock Estate – Harare, Zimbabwe
Bushman Rock Estate is a boutique winery with a small game reserve. It’s located in the picturesque Nyamasanga River Valley, 40 kilometers from Harare. It’s the perfect place to unwind, take in nature, and enjoy an afternoon tasting wine. The vineyard is in the middle of a game reserve, so there is a plethora of wildlife roaming to see. Can you think of a more beautiful place to drink wine and relax? Do you want to immerse yourself in the Zimbabwean culture? You can take a guided tour of the caves to see ancient rock paintings and learn the place’s history.
This is an old French estate located 20 kilometers south of Meknes.
The piece de resistance of the Estate is the Wine tour. It costs $40 per person and includes a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar, a lesson about the origin of the Bushman wines, and the various stages of winemaking. You also get to taste various wines accompanied by an amazing 3-course meal. Some of the wines available for sale at the vineyard are; 2009 Bushman Rock Estate Dry White, 2010 Charlevale, 2008 Alicante Bouschet and 2010 Merlot.
Kenya also produces amazing wine!
Domaine de la Zouina – Meknes, Morocco
Are you an enthusiast of wine, art, history and culture? Meknes in Morocco is the perfect holiday destination for you. It is home to the ancient ruins of Volubilis and the museum of Moroccan art, as well as Domaine de la Zouina. This is an old French estate located 20 kilometers south of Meknes. Volubilis in the largest wine region of Morocco.
The Domaine de la Zouina produces Red, White and Rosé wines under the brand Volubila and Epicuria. The wine tours are by appointment only, with 4 different types of tours to pick from. Among these tours includes a specific pairing of different wines with chocolate. Another tour offered pairs wines with the unforgettable local cuisine. The cost ranges from $ 23.93 (220 Moroccan Dirham) to $ 67.99 (625 Dhs) per person. There is an extra cost for groups of less than 4 people. With specific and varied tours, this winery offers something for everyone; even you.
Kristall Kellerei – Erongo Region, Namibia
Namibia is best known for the hot sun and a desert climate. Namibia offers an array of holiday activities, including sand dune surfing, bird watching and wine tours. So, if you want to enjoy an afternoon of wine and local food, Kristall Kellerei is the perfect winery to visit while in the beautiful African country. It is along the Omaruru River, 60 kilometres from Karibib.
Kristall Kellerei is the oldest winery in Namibia. It produces dry blends of white wine (Colombard) and red wine (Paradise Flycatcher). For $10 per person, you can take a tour of the vineyard and taste the estate’s wine while taking in nature and bird watching. While there, make sure you try the Colombard. An unfiltered wine famous for its hazy look, strong flavor and beautiful aroma.
Gianaclis Vineyards – Egypt
If you’re fascinated by pyramids, ancient history and love wine, visit Egypt. And take the tour of Gianaclis Vineyards, which costs $8.50 per person. It begins in Cairo at 9:00 a.m. and includes a road trip to the winery. Upon arrival, you watch a short 15-minute video about the history of winemaking in Egypt. It is followed by a guided tour of the winery, with in-depth explanations of their winemaking process. At it’s apex, you taste the estate’s gorgeous wines and have an beautiful lunch. The wines provided include Ayam, Leila, Aida, Cape Bay and Chateau De Reves. A must see winery, and a different experience to have while in Egypt!
Bagamoyo Wines – Tanzania
If you fancy trying out new cuisines and drinks, walking flawless beaches, eating seafood and learning history; Bagamoyo in Tanzania is for you. Founded in the 18th century, it was a holding port for slaves during the era of the slave trade. This makes it extremely rich in history and culture. But, the Bagamoyo wine is the main reason you should visit. The wine is unique because it’s produced from the Hibiscus plant.
At Bagamoyo Smoke House you will see the winemaking process, taste, and have an opportunity to buy the unbelievably unique wines. They also make other products such as juice, tea, and food coloring using the hibiscus plant. To visit you need to book an appointment, they are open daily from noon to 8:00 p.m. There long long operational hours for tours allows you to fit this unique experience into your schedule. One of the truly amazing African wineries!
For wine lovers, a vacation is not complete without a wine tasting tour. It is the ultimate activity for a perfect holiday. Discovering and trying out new wines is the Holy Grail of vacations. A visit to these African wineries is definitely worth every dollar spent. Every unique tasting, every aroma and flavor profile will have you reminiscing of your experiences in Africa when you return home.