Vrede en Lust Wine Estate
Historic Simonsberg hospitality, cool-climate Elgin wines and panoramic tasting between Franschhoek and Paarl.
Vrede en Lust combines Simonsberg reds and cool-climate Elgin whites with guided tastings, Lust Bistro and Bakery, family facilities and estate accommodation.
Overview
Vrede en Lust Wine Estate occupies a panoramic position at the foot of the Simonsberg, where the Franschhoek and Paarl wine routes meet.
Founded in 1688, the estate combines historic Cape architecture with a modern tasting room, Lust Bistro and Bakery, accommodation and a broad portfolio shaped by vineyards in Simonsberg-Paarl and cool-climate Elgin.
Two Terroirs
The Simonsberg slopes favour Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Malbec and other Bordeaux cultivars. Casey's Ridge in Elgin contributes cooler-climate white varieties, including Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay and single-vineyard Chenin Blanc.
This contrast gives the range unusual breadth. Fruit-driven estate reds sit alongside precise Elgin whites, Méthode Cap Classique and limited artisan wines.
Wine Tasting
The Red Ladies guide visitors through several tasting options in a contemporary lounge overlooking the Simonsberg mountains. The Black Label tasting highlights flagship wines, while chocolate and Dalewood cheese pairings add a food-focused alternative.
A guided cellar experience explores the story of the two properties and presents seven wines. Pre-booking is required for selected pairings and structured experiences.
Lust Bistro and Bakery
Lust Bistro and Bakery serves breakfast, lunch, wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes centred on abundant, uncomplicated food. The bakery counter and safe outdoor children's play area make it an easy family stop.
Staying at Vrede en Lust
Estate accommodation provides a peaceful base between Franschhoek and Paarl. Vrede en Lust is also served by the Orange and Navy lines of the Franschhoek Wine Tram.
Highlights
- Simonsberg and cool-climate Elgin vineyards
- Guided tastings hosted by the Red Ladies
- Flagship Black Label tasting
- Dalewood cheese and chocolate pairings
- Lust Bistro, bakery and family play area
- Wine Tram access and estate accommodation
Wines Produced
Kogelberg Chenin Blanc
A flagship single-vineyard Chenin Blanc from the cool Kogelberg block at Casey’s Ridge in Elgin.
Marguerite Chardonnay
A flagship Chardonnay selected from Casey’s Ridge blocks in Elgin.
Barrique
A Bordeaux-style Elgin white blend led by Semillon with Sauvignon Blanc.
Boet Erasmus
The estate’s full-bodied flagship Bordeaux-style red blend.
Lady J Syrah
An elegant Simonsberg-Paarl Syrah with supple fruit, spice and polished structure.
Malbec
A youthful single-variety Malbec from a high Simonsberg block planted in 1997.
Jess Rosé
A dry, fresh rosé named for a family celebration.
Sarah Brut
A celebratory bottle-fermented sparkling wine named for the owner’s daughter.