Travel and Tourism

Discover KZN’s fabulous wine estates

KwaZulu-Natal may be famous for its culture, blue flag status beaches and delicious cuisine, but the province is also home to a number of wine estates. If you a wine lover and want to plan a trip, here are a few ideas.

Where: Located in the KZN Midlands, Abingdon was the first farm to produce a certified estate wine from KZN grapes with their maiden vintage in 2007. The three-hectare farm bought in by Ian and Jane Smorthwaite in 2000 produces certified single vineyard Estate wines from 100% KZN grapes.

Why visit? Abingdon is a family run business that feels like your home away from home. You are bound to meet one of the members of the Smorthwaite family who are ever so passionate to share their wine knowledge with you. Father and daughter duo Ian and Laurie are the winemakers who make certain that every last drop of wine is created flawlessly, while the charming Jane offers visitors the warmest welcome.

wine estates

Wine offerings? They offer 6 wine options, which include Abingdon Sauvignon Blanc 2018, Chardonnay 2018, Viognier 2017, Blanc de Noir 2018, Syrah 2017 and the Cabernet Sauvignon 2017. Abingdon opens for tastings over the weekends from Friday to Sunday. They also open on Public Holidays for tastings and lunch. Wine tastings take place from 10.30am-4 pm.

Price: There is no fixed rate. Tastings are charged between R15 – R25 a glass.
Food offerings: Abingdon offers a range of delicious foods, including their famous harvest boards in vegetarian, cheese and mixed variants. Also, try their tapas-style menu that features Crispy Tempura Prawns, Pork Belly Bowl with crispy crackling and fresh apple sauce and Chargrilled Rare Beef Fillet. If you have space, their dessert is a must indulgence.

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Source: IOL