Spice Route Winery’s name recalls the ancient mariners of the 15th century who went on a journey of discovery in search of exotic spices. In much the same way visionary adventurer, Charles Back of Fairview, in search of new and interesting places to produce wines in the late 1990s, sailed into the uncharted waters of the Swartland and discovered an old tobacco farm with exceptional vineyards. Bewildered by the quality of grapes in a region better known for its wheat and rolling fynbos hills, Charles set forth to acquire the farm and explore its soils and extreme climate. Hence Spice Route Winery was born. An astonishing journey had begun. In just a few years, Spice Route became a cult label experiencing enormous acclaim both locally and abroad.
The Spice Route journey continued to the Paarl Winelands with the launch of the Spice Route Destination, giving wine lovers a more conveniently located venue to explore the Spice Route wines at the tasting room and at Jewell’s and the other restaurants on the farm. Situated on the slopes of the scenic Paarl Mountains with panoramic views, right next to Fairview, the Spice Route Destination is home to a carefully curated selection of authentic artisanal residents, presenting a journey of discovery of exotic flavours, aesthetics and experiences right on your doorstep, a mere 45-minute drive from Cape Town.
Synonymous with exploration, adventure and innovation, Spice Route’s ‘Journey of Discovery’ is on-going, venturing out further into the Western Cape’s wine regions in a quest to discover more extraordinary vineyards to expand their wine offering. Entrée to vineyards in Stellenbosch, Paarl, Darling, Swartland, Piekernierskloof and the South Coast provides access to a wide range of climates and soils from which to forge Spice Route’s new wines. Enter the Spice Route Journey Wine Range.
SPICE ROUTE JOURNEY WINE RANGE
The new Spice Route Journey range will comprise seven wines displaying new labels with neutral slightly old-school cartographic hues that encompass Spice Route’s ventures into new wine regions. Three wines in the range have been released, a Sauvignon Blanc 2023 from Darling, a Chenin Blanc 2023 from Paarl and a Provence-style Rosé 2023 from a Grenache Noir vineyard in Darling. Other new wines to follow shortly are a Pinotage, Grenache, Mourvèdre and a red blend.
SPICE ROUTE SAUVIGNON BLANC 2023 – Pistachio green, aromatic, mineral
Spice Route’s journey of discovery led to Darling, a great region for Sauvignon Blanc. The 2023 Spice Route Sauvignon Blanc is a wonderful expression of cool climate Darling vines, with enticing aromas of tropical fruits and stone fruit. The stone fruit notes carry through onto the palate with a fresh, zippy acidity and an intense lingering mouthfeel.
SPICE ROUTE CHENIN BLANC 2023 – Subtle turmeric colour, tropical, crisp
Spice Route’s journey of discovery led to an expressive vineyard in Paarl. A buffet table of juicy, tropical fruits! Generous tropical aromas of guava and passion fruit and a dash of lime greet you on the nose. The palate again creates a tropical sensory experience with an unexpected addition of canned pears on the mid palate. A beautifully integrated acidity carries the moreish finish.
SPICE ROUTE ROSÉ 2023 – Peppercorn pink, rose petal, raspberry
Spice Route’s journey of discovery led to a Grenache Noir vineyard in Darling. This Provence-style Rosé is light, fresh and delicate without being subdued. Whimsical aromas of strawberries, candy floss and rose petals dance harmoniously to form a pleasurable perfume. Rich flavours of ripe strawberries and honey on the palate lead to a lingering mouthfeel on the finish.
Purchase: TheSpice Route Journey Range of Wines is available for purchase at the Spice Route Destination in Paarl and online at https://www.spiceroutewines.co.za/shop/
Price: R95 per bottle
SPICE ROUTE – THE DESTINATION
Situated in the scenic Paarl Winelands with lush lawns, stately old oak trees and glorious sweeping views, Spice Route, the ultimate family destination, is home to Spice Route wines and a unique collection of hand-picked authentic artisanal residents.
Here you can enjoy tasting Spice Route wines, and wine pairing with Neil Jewell’s famous charcuterie, in the rustic underground tasting room, or outside under the pergola, whilst soaking up the panoramic scenery.
The collection of exciting and varied artisans include Spice Route Wines, several restaurants including Jewell’s, the highly acclaimed farm-to-table eatery headed up by charcuterie whizz Neil Jewell and his wife and baker par excellence, Tina; The Trading Company, an eclectic décor and gift store filled with authentically made curated pieces by local talent owned by Abigail Bisogno, sister of Charles Back and co-owner of Spice Route; as well as a gin distillery, deli, art studio, ceramic studio, adventure trails, a pilates studio plus chocolate, ice-cream and craft beer tastings and a popular outdoor kids’ play area.
For more info visit https://www.spiceroute.co.za/artisans/
SPICE ROUTE DESTINATION
The Ultimate Family Destination in Paarl!
A mere 45-minute drive from Cape Town!
Winner of KFM 94.5 Best Wine Farm Experience | 2021 & 2022
