Haute Cabrière - the home of Pierre Jourdan — Attraction in Stellenbosch Local Municipality

We were in the restaurant for lunch today. The food was absolutely fantastic. It is always a pleasure to be there and enjoy the amazing view of the Franschhoek valley. Since we have been there the last time has the kitchen been upgraded to a next level. We will be back soon!

Haute Cabrière, nestled in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley of South Africa, is a winery that epitomizes the artistry and elegance of winemaking. Established in 1982 by the charismatic and innovative Achim von Arnim, this estate has become a symbol of excellence in the Cape Winelands.

The name “Haute Cabrière” has French origins, translating to “High Cellar,” a fitting reflection of its hillside location with panoramic views of the valley below. The winery is renowned for its commitment to producing exceptional Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines, which undergo the traditional method of secondary fermentation in the bottle. These sparkling gems showcase a harmonious marriage of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, resulting in effervescent elixirs that captivate the senses.

The estate’s winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in the concept of blending, a technique that harmonizes different grape varieties and wine styles to create complex and balanced wines. This approach is evident in their still wine offerings, where the marriage of classic French winemaking techniques and South African terroir yields wines that are both distinctive and elegant.

The Haute Cabrière Cellar Restaurant, perched atop the estate, provides a culinary experience that complements the wines. The menu, curated by acclaimed chef Nic van Wyk, emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that elevate the tasting experience. The panoramic views from the restaurant terrace enhance the ambiance, making it a sought-after destination for wine enthusiasts and gastronomes alike.

Beyond the cellar doors, Haute Cabrière embraces a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The estate actively implements eco-friendly practices, from vineyard management to energy conservation, ensuring that the legacy of winemaking is passed down responsibly to future generations.

The legacy of Haute Cabrière extends beyond the borders of the estate. The von Arnim family’s passion for sharing the art of winemaking has led to the establishment of the Pierre Jourdan Méthode Cap Classique School of Excellence. This educational initiative imparts knowledge and skills to aspiring winemakers, contributing to the broader development of the South African wine industry.

In conclusion, Haute Cabrière stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of winemaking. Its commitment to tradition, innovation, and sustainability, coupled with breathtaking surroundings, creates an immersive experience for those seeking not just a sip of exceptional wine but a journey through the rich tapestry of South African...

Not a person to complain however I have been to Haute on three occasions and have spent countless Rand which displays my satisfaction with the establishment.

Today has been an exception which I need to share.

We booked our meal online for 3.30 pm, which gave us the chance to drive all the way to Hermanus to meet friends and have lunch and a nice walk along the coast.

We were contacted by the winery to state that the booking is incorrect and that we are to be there by 2.30pm at the latest.

We dropped everything, including our lunch with friends etc and proceed to the winery.

Upon our arrival we spoke to management about the inconvenience of rushing to make our an unplanned reservation.

Management was non understanding and to be honest, uncaring.

We had rushed our tasting and made our way to our meal.

Meals were served, excluding the two sides that were ordered, which we understood was due to been rushed to clear customers.

We ordered three tasting platters and 16 bottles of various sparkling wines.

When the bill arrived we were charged full rate, including tastings (which is free when a certain amount was purchased)

I asked for management to revise the bill given we were asked to rush back 1.5 hours earlier and that out sides were not brought to to table, which was unacceptable given we had to miss our lunch date.

Management did NOT bother coming back to us for a discount but rather sent service staff with a dismal discount off the tasting (been though it was free) and made excuses that they gave us a complimentary discount for the tasting.

Our bill in this visit was 5,800 Rand and no other discount was given.

Im afraid to say that as as returning customer we were "fobbed" off. A discount on tasting, which was to be deducted was all that was given. Regardless of been asked to drop everything and come early and to top it off, no sides given with our meals.

Extremely disappointed with this behaviour by management and will be the last time we visit. My international friends were shocked as well.

I welcome a response...

Recap Beautifully set on the top of Franschhoek valley, this charming and bewildering corner worth seeing. Other than October-May sunny summer days, between June and September ie winter & early Spring, bear in mind to go for it when weather forecast promises warm days unless you keen to spend your time in the cavey and dark tasting room. The terraced-stunning-view-restaurant outside offers its best in fact. Booking highly recommended in winter too. Browsing reviews on here it’s appalling the bunch of fake 5-marks-by-local-guides-improvised-photo-reporters speaking of whom, got free wine tastings and high discounts on restaurants all over the wine-lands. Filter out before sipping their sweet honeyish vanilla reviews.

Story Went for a trip to Franschhoek in mid-August, lovely sunny warm day ie. 25 degrees perfect for bubbly hence we didn’t go with reds, next come in will give a try definitely. Took bottle of Brut speaking of which, amongst the best MCCs in South Africa so far. We had a lovely chat with company rep, friendly and welcoming, she offered us a sip of their sparkling rosé. In general, if not for this encounter with a higher in grade (we assume a manager / supervisor helping out staff) accommodating clients & tables out, the service overall appeared lazy and superficial. Saw workers busy with just ignoring clients like insects. It was not a crowded day at all. Guess summer must be nuts. Besides, we didn’t really get why bottle at the factory costs more than in a shop in Cape Town. Furthermore Restaurant menu questionable for a matter of variety and combo with wines.

Debrief German ownership, family business which went big. Impeccable presentation of product, attention to detail, cleanliness. All good but missing some vibes, South Africa at Haute Cabrière hard to feel. It’s more like a German wine farm set in a South African corner. It’s cold there even when it’s 40 degrees outside. Missing some local touch, in a few words too much of shareholders’ too...