If you’re looking to make the most of the warmer days and the vibrant beauty of spring, here are a few must-try experiences at Brookdale Estate in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

As the blossoms bloom and the weather warms, Brookdale Estate in the picturesque Paarl in the Western Cape prepares to welcome locals and visitors alike with unforgettable experiences. From indulgent wine tastings to exquisite dining and curated spring events, Brookdale offers something for every palate and interest this season.

Here’s what you can look forward to at this renowned destination:

1. Dine on seasonal cuisine at The Bistro

Under the guidance of Executive Chef Gary Coetzee, The Bistro has curated a spring menu that highlights local, seasonal ingredients. Whether it’s an intimate evening by the fire or a leisurely lunch overlooking the vineyards, this dining experience promises to showcase the best of the Paarl Valley.

Dining Hours:

Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 – 15:30

Dinner: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 18:00 – 21:00

Don’t miss the Thursday Fire & Wine Evenings, where dishes are paired with a complimentary glass of Mason Road wine.

2. Join the Clay & Wine Workshop on 13 September

Unleash your creativity with a clay sculpting experience while sipping on award-winning wines. This interactive workshop allows participants to sculpt and decorate their own jewellery trays under expert guidance – no prior experience is needed. The morning ends with a gourmet small plate pairing.

Included in the experience:

• Bubbly on arrival
• Wine tasting and small plate of your choice (options include Duck Liver Pâté, Miso Aubergine, or Bobotie Tortellini)
• All materials provided

Time: 9:00 – 12:00 | Cost: R795 per person

3. Feast on special themed evenings

Foodies will want to mark their calendars for these exciting themed food-and-wine evenings, held every Thursday until the end of September. Highlights include:

Burger Night (4 September): Aged cheese burger served with hand-cut fries at R200 per person.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina (11 September): A feast for two featuring a 1kg charcoal-grilled T-bone and gourmet sides (R990).

Prawns on the Grill (18 September): A seafood extravaganza offering six prawns for R320 or up to 18 prawns for R750.

Curry Night (25 September): A South African-inspired curry experience fireside, priced at R775 for two.

4. Celebrate Heritage Day in style on 24 September

Toast to South Africa’s rich heritage with curated dishes that reflect bold local flavours, prepared in celebration of Heritage Day. Guests can enjoy selections from the seasonal Winter Menu, along with a complimentary glass of Mason Road red or white wine, all served fireside in this serene setting.

5. Indulge in exclusive wine tastings

Visit the Tasting Room and immerse yourself in a world where old-world elegance meets innovative winemaking. Sample award-winning wines from the Brookdale and Mason Road ranges, surrounded by vineyard views framed by the Klein Drakenstein mountains. The Tasting Room extends an invitation not just to taste but also to engage with the passion and philosophy behind every bottle. Enhance the experience with a curated Small Plates Menu that perfectly complements the terroir-driven wines.

Insider’s tip: The Tasting Room is open from Wednesday to Sunday (11:00 – 17:00). Book early to secure your spot.

Plan your visit

Reservations are essential for all tastings, dining, and events to ensure an unforgettable experience. To book, email bistro@brookdale-estate.com, call 087 183 3919, or reserve online via this link www.brookdale-estate.com

With its combination of indulgent dining, creative workshops, and award-winning wines, this Cape Winelands gem is a must-visit destination this spring.

This article is sponsored by Brookdale Estate and produced by Media24 Advertising and Content Marketing.