Muratie Wine Estate
A deeply atmospheric Simonsberg estate where historic cellars, character-led wines and more than three centuries of stories meet.
Muratie combines a cobwebbed heritage tasting room, story-driven wines, traditional farm food, art and outdoor trails in the Knorhoek Valley.
Overview
Muratie Wine Estate lies in the Knorhoek Valley beneath the Simonsberg, around nine kilometres from central Stellenbosch. Ancient oaks, whitewashed buildings, old concrete fermenters and a famously cobwebbed tasting room give the estate an atmosphere quite unlike the polished modern cellars elsewhere in the Winelands.
Every wine is connected to a person in Muratie's long story. Tastings therefore unfold as both a wine experience and an introduction to the farmers, artists, winemakers and families who shaped the estate.
History
Muratie dates to 1685, when Simon van der Stel granted the land to German soldier Laurens Campher. His life with Ansela van de Caab and their children became one of the defining stories of the farm and is commemorated in two of Muratie's flagship wines.
Later custodians included Martin Melck, artist George Paul Canitz and Canitz's daughter Alberta Annemarie. Ronnie Melck returned Muratie to the Melck family in 1987, and the family continues to preserve its heritage while developing the vineyards and cellar.
Every Wine Tells a Story
Muratie names its wines for figures from the estate's past. Ansela van de Caab is a Cabernet-led Bordeaux blend, Laurens Campher is a Chenin-led white blend, and George Paul Canitz Pinot Noir honours the artist who pioneered the variety on the farm.
Ronnie Melck Shiraz, Martin Melck Cabernet Sauvignon and Alberta Annemarie Merlot continue the tradition. The range is shaped by Simonsberg sites and a cellar approach that combines traditional open fermenters with careful barrel maturation.
Wine Tasting and Heritage Experiences
The tasting room is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00. Classic, Premium and Flagship tastings offer different routes through the range, while the pre-booked Story Room experience combines six flagship wines with a heritage walk and cellar tour.
Beyond wine, visitors can browse the art gallery, explore walking and mountain-bike trails or stay in historic farm accommodation. Allow extra time to wander the heritage square and absorb the estate's unhurried character.
Muratie Farm Kitchen
The Farm Kitchen serves breakfast and lunch from Wednesday to Sunday. Its country-style food and heritage setting make it a natural extension of a tasting, particularly for visitors planning a slower half-day on the farm.
Highlights
- Historic wine estate dating to 1685
- Atmospheric cobwebbed tasting room
- Story Room flagship tasting and heritage walk
- Wines named for estate personalities
- Farm Kitchen and historic accommodation
- Art gallery, hiking and mountain-bike trails
Wines Produced
Ansela van de Caab
A Cabernet-led Bordeaux-style flagship blend celebrating Ansela and the early Campher family.
Laurens Campher Chenin Blanc
A Chenin-led Cape white blend combining freshness, barrel texture and layered fruit.
George Paul Canitz Pinot Noir
An elegant Simonsberg Pinot Noir honouring the artist and former Muratie custodian.
Ronnie Melck Shiraz
A polished, savoury Shiraz matured in French oak and named for Ronnie Melck.
Martin Melck Cabernet Sauvignon
A structured Cabernet Sauvignon named for the eighteenth-century Melck family custodian.
Alberta Annemarie Merlot
A full-bodied yet composed Merlot honouring one of the Cape wine industry’s early female farm owners.
Lady Alice MCC
A traditional-method sparkling wine named for the lively Lady Alice Stanford.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Muratie Wine Estate known for?
Muratie is known for its history dating to 1685, its atmospheric cobwebbed tasting room and wines named for the people who shaped the farm.
What are Muratie’s tasting hours?
Wine tastings and sales are available daily from 09:00 to 17:00. Groups of eight or more should arrange their visit in advance.
What is the Story Room tasting?
It is a pre-booked private experience for small groups that combines six flagship wines with a heritage walk and cellar tour.
Does Muratie have a restaurant?
Yes. Muratie Farm Kitchen serves breakfast and lunch from Wednesday to Sunday.
Is Muratie suitable for families?
Children are welcome but must remain under adult supervision. Pets are not allowed because animals live on the farm.
What else can I do at Muratie?
Visitors can browse the art gallery, explore the heritage buildings, obtain permits for hiking or mountain biking, and stay in historic farm accommodation.
How long should I spend at Muratie?
Allow three to four hours for a tasting, a relaxed meal and time to explore the heritage square and gallery.