Lanzerac Wine Estate: A Journey Through History, Luxury, and Wine

Nov 24, 2025 0

Nestled in the heart of Stellenbosch, the Lanzerac Wine Estate boasts over 330 years of winemaking heritage. Established in 1692, this historical estate is one of the oldest in the region. A stone's throw from Cape Town centre tucked away in what seems to be the suburbs of Stellenbosch is a historic landmark that has risen from the ashes, quite literally. With a history dating back to 1692, this grande dame is synonymous with old-world charm and rich Cape heritage. Lanzerac can trace its roots back to 1692, making it one of the oldest wineries in South Africa. As one of the oldest wine estates, Lanzerac offers a rich historical context. Consider learning a bit about its heritage, including being the birthplace of Pinotage, to enhance your appreciation of the estate's significance.

Lanzerac Wine Estate is consistently praised for its stunning property, exceptional service that exceeds five stars, and luxurious amenities. At Lanzerac, you can sip on award-winning wines, explore the beauty of Stellenbosch, and immerse yourself in the rich history of one of South Africa’s oldest estates.

Карта винного региона Стелленбош

The Naming of Lanzerac

The farm, located in the Jonkershoek Valley on the outskirts of the historical town of Stellenbosch, was originally known as Schoongezicht and dates back to the late 17th century. The big question stands: how did it get its name, the Lanzerac? It acquired its present name when Mrs Elizabeth English (nee Devenish) bought the estate in 1914 after her husband, Frederick Alexander English, a diamond merchant and friend of Cecil John Rhodes, passed away in 1909. As legend has it, she named the Estate after her true love, General Charles Lanzerac, a French Marquis native of Guadeloupe. There are no insights about how they met or the nature of their love story.

Винный погреб Lanzerac

Read also: The History of Lanzerac

Mrs. English and the Legacy of Winemaking

Mrs English was no ordinary woman and, like Lady Ann Barnard a century before her, she has accomplished a lot in just seven years. She made considerable alterations and improvements to the main house and other buildings, as well as bottling the first Lanzerac wine from grapes grown on her land. It is said that Kitty herself was involved in the growing of the grapes, and also in bottling the wine. She was considered a real pioneer as a female wine farmer.

The Birthplace of Pinotage

Lanzerac Wine Estate holds a significant place in South African wine history as the location where Pinotage, the country's unique crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault, was first made. Abraham Izak Perold, a South African chemist and viticulturist, made the first pinotage (according to his great-grandson, Gerhard). He crossed two varietals, namely Pinot noir and Cinsaut. Another wine milestone for the estate was the release by Stellenbosch Farmer’s Winery (SFW), then owner of Lanzerac, of the first commercial Pinotage under the Lanzerac brand in 1959. This iconic varietal is now synonymous with South African wine, and visiting Lanzerac offers a chance to connect with its origins. During a wine tasting at Lanzerac, you can often sample their own Pinotage, experiencing firsthand the rich, full-bodied character that has made it a global favorite. The estate's commitment to preserving and promoting this heritage makes it a must-visit for any wine enthusiast.

Wine-tasting must rank as one of the hotel’s biggest attractions. During a wine tasting at Lanzerac, you can often sample their own Pinotage, experiencing firsthand the rich, full-bodied character that has made it a global favorite. Guests staying on the Lanzerac property are offered a complimentary wine tasting of 5 Lanzerac Estate wines in the Lanzerac Tasting Room. I highly recommend doing the wine and chocolate pairing or their Premium Range tasting of 5 wines. Beyond the tasting, understanding the story behind Pinotage adds a layer of appreciation to your visit, transforming a simple wine tasting into an educational journey through South African viticulture.

Бокал Pinotage от Lanzerac

A Luxurious Retreat

While Lanzerac is famed for its award-winning wines, the estate offers much more than an exquisite glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay. In 2012, Lanzerac opened a new chapter when a British consortium acquired the estate with an ambitious five star vision to turn the historical estate into a leading hospitality destination. It provides an immersive experience where the beauty of nature and luxury of five-star hospitality intertwine. It was truly the best way to relax, unplug, and of course, indulge in some of the tastiest wines. The estate is situated just an hours drive from Cape Town CBD and is worth booking a weekend for, if not longer.

The five-star hotel is home to 53 ensuite bedrooms and suites, with many including private patios that overlook the mountain range and vineyards. The rooms are fitted with a TV and minibar so staying in and getting comfy is at your fingers tips! Each room reflects the history of the property and has you feeling as if you’ve been transported back to the 1600s. Classic interior tied together with old farm charm is the feeling in the rooms.

Lanzerac is truly a stunning estate and we only wish we had longer to stay. The estate provided them with a peaceful and luxurious retreat, combining elegance with adventure as they explored not only the estate’s vineyards but also South Africa’s incredible variety of landscapes and lodging options.

Dining at Lanzerac

Lanzerac offers exceptional dining, with Manor Kitchen providing a five-star tasting menu and the Deli serving delicious food, including their legendary scones. The estate offers several options to wine and dine your needs. The food is classic and fresh using seasonal produce grown locally. The dining hall at the Lanzerac, beautifully appointed, spacious and majestic In the dining hall, guests can soak up an atmosphere that’s a rare treat, enjoying wonderful company and fine dining. The estate offers several options to wine and dine your needs.

Dining at Lanzerac, especially at Manor Kitchen, is considered upscale. Expect fine dining prices for the tasting menus and wine pairings. Absolutely! Lanzerac offers wine pairing dinners, which are highly praised for their perfect selections and delicious food.

The Lanzerac Spa Experience

While Lanzerac is celebrated for its wine, its award-winning spa is another significant draw for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. It's wonderful to see such a classic piece of history honoured with such integrity and standing proudly in the small town of Stellenbosch. Described as Africa's number one day spa, it offers a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the estate's natural beauty. I LOVE a good massage. Guests can expect a high level of service and a serene environment that enhances the overall luxury experience of the estate. My personal favourite being the Deli where you can experience a wine and chocolate pairing along with one of the best cheese platters I’ve had to date.

Read also: Discover Fairview Wines

Combining a wine tasting with a spa treatment offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to indulge in both the sensory pleasures of fine wine and the restorative benefits of a world-class spa. The spa facilities are some of the best in the area and they truly focus on helping you unwind.

Tips for Visiting Lanzerac

Lanzerac Wine Estate is approximately a 45-minute drive from Cape Town. The vineyards, historic buildings, and manicured gardens offer stunning backdrops for photos. Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the estate's beauty. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

Book Ahead: Lanzerac is a popular spot, especially for its acclaimed dining and wine experiences. Reservations are essential for Manor Kitchen, especially for dinner tastings.
Explore the Grounds: Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Try the Water Tasting: Experience a unique water tasting session, exploring different water sources.
Enjoy Scones: Enjoy delicious scones for a budget-friendly price with stunning views.
Embrace the History: As one of the oldest wine estates, Lanzerac offers a rich historical context.

For Different Travelers

Lanzerac Wine Estate caters to a variety of travelers:

Families with Kids: The expansive grounds offer space for children to explore, and the Deli is a great spot for a casual bite, including their famous scones.
Budget Travelers: Visiting the Lanzerac Deli for their legendary scones is a more affordable way to experience the estate's offerings, costing around R35 per person.
Couples & Romantic Getaways: Lanzerac Wine Estate is an idyllic destination for couples. The historic charm, stunning vineyard views, and luxurious accommodation create a perfect romantic setting.

Lanzerac Wine Estate After the Fire

In May 2017, Lanzerac Wine Estate suffered a destructive fire and was forced to close for 13 months. As my previous visit took place before the fire, I was intrigued by how the estate was reconstructed. The Manor House and Werf buildings were the worst hit during the fire so I made my way there. As I strolled around, I couldn’t help but feel great admiration for the tremendous job done in reconstructing these historic monuments. The whole place oozed elegance and old world charm, with visible references to the estate’s rich history.

Lanzerac Wine estate is not just your average wine estate but rather a piece of history with a classic feel that is timeless. It's wonderful to see such a classic piece of history honoured with such integrity and standing proudly in the small town of Stellenbosch.