Overview

Nestled at the foot of the spectacular Jonkershoek Mountains in Stellenbosch, Lanzerac Wine Estate is one of South Africa’s oldest, most prestigious and historically significant wine estates. Dating back to 1692, it is renowned for award-winning wines, a luxurious five-star hotel, a world-class spa and its unique place in wine history as the home of the world’s first commercially bottled Pinotage.

Surrounded by vineyards, mountain scenery and beautifully restored Cape Dutch buildings, Lanzerac combines heritage, elegance and exceptional hospitality – from premium tastings and spa treatments to dining and luxurious accommodation.

History

Lanzerac’s story began in 1692 under the name Schoongezicht, making it one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa. It changed ownership several times before becoming known as Lanzerac in the early 20th century, and in 1961 released the world’s first commercially bottled Pinotage from the 1959 vintage.

The estate was founded in 1692 — just 13 years after the town of Stellenbosch itself — by Isaac Schrijver, who planted its first vineyards and named the farm Schoongezicht, meaning “wonderful view.” Its iconic Manor House, with a main gable dating to 1830, shows an unusually high level of Cape Dutch sophistication for the period, and the Manor House and werf today stand as a Provincial Heritage Site. In 1920 Elizabeth Catherina “Kitty” English bought Schoongezicht and renamed it Lanzerac, transforming it into one of the most modern wineries in the Cape.

Over more than three centuries, Lanzerac has remained one of Stellenbosch's most recognised wine estates, carefully restoring its historic Cape Dutch buildings while evolving into a luxury destination. Today the estate combines award-winning wines with five-star hospitality, preserving its rich heritage while offering modern luxury in the heart of the Jonkershoek Valley.

Pinotage Heritage

Lanzerac occupies a special place in South African wine history. In 1925, Professor Abraham Izak Perold — the first Professor of Viticulture at the University of Stellenbosch — crossed Pinot Noir and Hermitage (Cinsaut) to create South Africa's first unique, indigenous variety: Pinotage. Several years later, Lanzerac became the first winery in the world to use the name “Pinotage” on a label, marketing the celebrated 1959 vintage and introducing South Africa's signature grape to wine lovers around the world. The estate continues to produce award-winning Pinotage to this day.

Luxury Experiences

Lanzerac is far more than a tasting room. Visitors can enjoy premium wine tastings and a remarkable tasting venue, fine dining across acclaimed restaurants, bars and a deli, luxurious five-star hotel accommodation and one of the Cape Winelands' most renowned day spas. Set against the dramatic Jonkershoek Mountains among gardens shaded by giant oak trees, the estate offers an elegant retreat that combines history, wine and relaxation in a spectacular natural setting.