Chamonix Wine Farm
High mountain vineyards, acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and historic wine tasting above Franschhoek.
Chamonix Wine Farm pairs some of the Cape's highest vineyards with award-winning Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, historic tasting rooms and panoramic Franschhoek scenery.
Overview
Chamonix Wine Farm rises above Franschhoek on the eastern slopes of the surrounding mountains, with high vineyards, forested landscapes and sweeping valley views.
The estate is particularly associated with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and structured red wines. Tastings take place in the late eighteenth-century Blacksmith's Cottage, where visitors can sample the standard and reserve ranges in an intimate historic setting.
High Mountain Vineyards
Chamonix covers around 300 hectares and includes some of the Cape's highest planted vineyards. Altitude and cooler mountain conditions help preserve freshness while allowing the estate to produce elegant whites and finely structured reds.
The farm originally formed part of La Cotte, a historic Huguenot property dating to 1688. Its modern identity combines this heritage with careful vineyard selection, cellar work and a broad range of wine, spirits and hospitality experiences.
Wine Tasting
The Blacksmith's Cottage offers several tasting flights, including the Chamonix, Reserve, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir selections. A chocolate pairing, cheese and charcuterie platters and light meals are also available.
Cellar tours are subject to availability, so arranging them in advance is recommended. The official tasting page lists daily tasting hours, with cellar-door sales continuing slightly later.
Dining and Staying
Arkeste Restaurant occupies a heritage building on the edge of the forest and pairs contemporary cooking with Chamonix wines and a wider Cape selection. Accommodation across the estate ranges from cottages to the secluded Forest Lodge.
Highlights
- Some of the Cape's highest planted vineyards
- Acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
- Tasting in the historic Blacksmith's Cottage
- Reserve and chocolate-pairing experiences
- Arkeste Restaurant in a forest-edge setting
- Mountain accommodation and valley views
Wines Produced
Chamonix Chardonnay
A barrel-influenced Chardonnay that expresses the freshness and concentration of Chamonix's mountain vineyards.
Unoaked Chardonnay
A bright, steely Chardonnay matured on its lees in tank to preserve freshness and texture.
Feldspar Pinot Noir
An elegant medium-bodied Pinot Noir matured in French oak.
Greywacke Pinotage
A full-bodied Pinotage made with a Ripasso-inspired technique and extended French-oak maturation.
Cabernet Franc Reserve
A concentrated single-variety Cabernet Franc with generous fruit and firm structure.
Troika Reserve
A Cabernet Franc-led Bordeaux-style blend matured in French oak.
Pinot Noir Rosé
A dry, light-bodied Pinot Noir rosé with floral character and refreshing natural acidity.