Warwick Wine Estate
Iconic Bordeaux-style wines, seasonal picnics and vineyard adventures on the slopes of Simonsberg.
Warwick combines its celebrated Trilogy and Cabernet wines with daily tastings, seasonal food, family-friendly picnics and summer Vineyard Safaris.
Overview
Warwick Wine Estate sits on the foothills and mid-slopes of the Simonsberg, between Stellenbosch and Klapmuts. The estate combines a strong Cabernet tradition with generous outdoor hospitality.
Visitors come for themed wine tastings, seasonal picnics and lunches, family-friendly lawns and summer Vineyard Safaris. The flagship Trilogy remains one of the best-known Bordeaux-style blends in South Africa.
The Warwick Story
The Ratcliffe family arrived at Warwick in 1964. Norma Ratcliffe developed the modern wine estate with her husband Stan and released La Femme Bleu Cabernet Sauvignon in 1984.
Norma later created Trilogy, a Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend that became the estate's signature wine. The First Lady and Three Cape Ladies names continue the stories of the women associated with Warwick.
Simonsberg Vineyards
The vineyards rise from roughly 240 to 360 metres above sea level. Elevation, ocean breezes, varied aspects and a mix of soils support nine cultivars across the estate.
Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted variety, followed by Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Pinotage and old-vine Chenin Blanc add a distinct South African element to the Bordeaux-focused portfolio.
Wine Tasting
Warwick offers curated tastings indoors or on its scenic tasting deck. Experiences range from accessible introductions to focused flights of single-variety wines and vertical tastings of Trilogy.
Tastings run daily until 16:00, while wine sales continue until 17:00. Advance booking is recommended and may be essential for structured experiences and busy weekends.
Seasonal Food and Picnics
Warwick's hospitality changes with the seasons. Spring and summer bring gourmet picnics on the lawns, beneath the oaks and in private Forest Pods. Autumn and winter focus on lunches, burgers and indoor cheese and charcuterie boards.
Families are well catered for, and dogs on leads are welcome during the picnic season. Plant-based and gluten-free options are available, but confirm the current menu before travelling.
Vineyard Safari
The summer Vineyard Safari explores the estate's vineyards and elevated viewpoints before returning to the tasting room. Tours run at scheduled times and have limited capacity, so advance reservations are essential.
Highlights
- Home of the iconic Trilogy blend
- Cabernet-focused Simonsberg vineyards
- Seasonal gourmet picnics and lunches
- Summer Vineyard Safari experiences
- Family-friendly lawns and outdoor spaces
- Themed and vertical wine tastings
Wines Produced
Trilogy
Warwick’s flagship Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Cabernet Franc
A single-vineyard Cabernet Franc with concentrated fruit, perfume and fine-grained structure.
The Blue Lady Cabernet Sauvignon
A premium Simonsberg Cabernet Sauvignon named within Warwick’s celebrated Lady series.
The Black Lady Pinotage
A premium Pinotage adding a distinctly South African expression to the estate range.
The White Lady Chardonnay
A premium Chardonnay reflecting Warwick’s warm Simonsberg site and careful cellar work.
Old Vine Chenin Blanc
A concentrated old-vine Chenin Blanc from mature Stellenbosch vineyards.
Professor Black Sauvignon Blanc
A textured Sauvignon Blanc named for the professor whose experimental orchards once occupied the site.
The First Lady Rosé
A fresh, accessible rosé designed for Warwick’s relaxed outdoor and picnic experiences.