26 Nov 2019
We did the penguins et al. with Ian 2 years ago and had such a fab time and experience that we had no hesitation jn booking with him again, his time to the Cape Winelands. Ian is not the cheapest around but he is excellent - a local man, intelligent, full of essential information and willing to answer any question both openly and honestly. Additionally, Ian provides an excellent on-board commentary and is fluent in both English and Africaans. A late cancellation on the day meant that we had a private tour which was totally tailored to our agenda. This being said, Ian bases his tariffs on small groups so that he can personalise the experience for all guests to a great degree.
Pre-excursion communication by email was highly effective and we had a prompt pick-up as agreed at 8.30 am at our hotel. We discussed our ideal day with him and off we went to the winelands. As it was early, an early morning alcohol tasting was not considered so we proceeded to De Villiers for chocolate tasting which was fabulous with at least 30 different flavours and types to taste = imposssible not to buy some to take home so we did. De Villiers also brews beer but we declined the pairing although others might wish to do both - all included in the price!
Our first wine tasting was at the Fairview estate in Franschoeck. We preferred all white wine tastings and Ian negotiated this with staff and it was an excellent session with 5 different whites paired with 5 different cheeses - lovely and again included in the price.We told Ian that we liked to view gardens so next we strolled around Babylonstoren - a fine collection of craft shops, dairy, chocolatier, butchers shop and restaurant in addtion to beautifully laid out gardens.This was a lovely segment enjoyed in beautiful sunshine in a lovely setting.We slotted in a 2nd tasting before lunch at La Lude, a lovely boutique winery and restaurant where we again enjoyed an all white wine tasting in beautiful surroundings out in the garden area.
As we had an evening dinner reservation booked we asked for a simple lunch venue and we settled on Tuc Tuc in Franshoeck where we all chose from a bistro type
menu which we enjoyed outside.
After lunch we proceeded to Stellenbosch, a major university town with many historic buildings.We did a tour of the town in the vehicle before parking up and undertaking the Village Museum tour which included 3 main houses each staffed by "in character" staff who provided historical background and answered any questions.As a history lover I really enjoyed this "how they used to live" segment the cost of which was again included. After re-joining our transport we proceeded to our final wine tasting at the lovely Tokara estate. Three excellent whites were tasted in idyllic, panoramic surroundings overlooking Stellenbosch. We could have stayed here all day but unfortunately it was time to set off back to Cape Town as our day with Ian was drawing to a close. We made our farewells with Ian at 5.30 pm after a brilliant day out. Considering the quality of product and everything which was included (only lunch is at your own expense) the tour provided superb value for money. Ian and African Moon Adventures are recommended without reservation and we will be certainly seeing Ian again when we return to the area,