Situated on the Stellenbosch Road, between Stellenbosch and Kuils River, Jordan Wines – or Jordan Wine Estate – is one of Stellenbosch’s best, award-winning wine farms. In this post, I share my thoughts on this Stellenbosch stunner and highlight some great activities to enjoy at Jordan Wines.
A Reluctant Celebrity on the Stellenbosch Wine Scene
Despite its quality offerings, which are first class from start to finish, Jordan Wines lies tucked in a quiet, rural farming area. The road that leads to the estate and neighbouring DeMorgenzon is bumpy and rustic at best, edged by peaceful fields and narrow country lanes.
For me, this is part of the charm because, like its setting, which oozes country vibes and tranquility – Jordan Wines comes from humble beginnings. Purchased in 1982 by Ted and Sheelagh Jordan, this 164-hectare, historic Stellenbosch farm demands a rather more quiet respect than your typical Stellenbosch estate.
It has everything you want (excellent wines, world-class food, lovely accommodation and incredible farm experiences) – and yet, Jordan doesn’t have that densely crowded, frenzied feel some Cape Winelands estates do.
It feels like Jordan Wines is a reluctant celebrity on the wine scene. Jordan is accomplished and superbly beautiful and yet, oddly bashful and secluded. Rather, it lets its beauty, food and wine and spectacular setting sing its praises.
The estate wine has won numerous accolades (evident from the tasting room, lined with framed certificates), yet it still remains outrageously underrated in the Stellenbosch Wine Route.
Other estates draw all the attention – but I can’t help feel that Jordan Wines is where it’s at. The staff are polite and professional, the farm is exquisitely beautiful, yet farmed properly and the wines – oh, the wines – they deserve every award and then some.
Like their slogan says, “South African roots, world-class acclaim”.
Blown Away by Jordan Wines
During my first visit to this estate on a blustery, yet beautiful winter’s day, Jordan Wines blew me away, literally and figuratively. Here’s why:
Delicious Food and Drink at Jordan Wine Estate
With a beautiful dam, encircled by trees, gardens and lush lawns and a tranquil courtyard, The Cellar Door (formerly The Bakery) at Jordan is blessed with one of the best restaurant settings anywhere.
If views could sate one’s hunger, those that Jordan’s Cellar Door enjoys would do just that.
Add to that, Chef Thys Esterhuysen’s impeccable food – which is fresh, seasonal and casual-meets-classy – and wines sold at cellar door prices and you have a truly outstanding food- and wine-experience.
View this post on Instagram
Jordan’s main restaurant, which is undergoing renovations until September 2022, is now fronted by talented chef, Marthinus Ferreira. Chef Ferreira recently took over from George Jardine, who long oversaw The Jordan Restaurant.
Until the restaurant reopens, guests can enjoy memorable meals at The Cellar Door. Or book special cellar dinners with Chef Marthinus Ferreira.
Brunch at the Cellar Door
I enjoyed a brunch at The Cellar Door and was positively wowed by the setting, as much as the food and drinks and service.
You can read all about my meal here. However, I will say that it is one of the best meals I have had anywhere!
Dreamy Picnic Pods by the Dam
View this post on Instagram
Jordan Wines is also big on their picnics and with such a idyllic setting, it is the perfect picnic spot! Thanks to their newly launched winter picnics, picnicking is now a year-round affair.
Guests can book out a private picnic pod and feast on a picnic basket. Picnics are suitable for minimum two guests, although they can accommodate between 2-8 adults. Picnics must be booked 48 hours in advance.
For more information on Jordan’s picnics, please see here or contact them directly.
Jordan also caters to kiddies with their kids’ picnic basket. Vegetarian- and vegan-options are also available. (Note: Vegan picnics can be arranged for an additional fee.)
Best of all, Jordan is ideal romantic picnics. Or even a surprise proposal; for planning assistance, please contact their events team.
View this post on Instagram
Luxury Accommodation Suites to Linger Longer In
View this post on Instagram
Unknown to many, Jordan also offers guests a choice of beautifully appointed luxury suites. Equipped with contemporary finishes and creature comforts, these rooms offer a tranquil Stellenbosch stay. There are four classic suites; two deluxe suites; four superior suites; and two 2-bedroom luxury suites to choose from.
For more information or to book an accommodation suite, please see here.
World-class Wines and a Vineyard Safari with a Front Row View of Table Mountain
Perhaps one of the most exciting things at Jordan is their incredible vineyard safari. I was fortunate to enjoy this on my visit – and it took my breath away!
Included in your booking is a wine tasting (at several scenic spots on your safari, each with a relevant or interesting connection to the wines); 360-degree views of the farm, winelands and if you are lucky, Table Mountain; and a fascinating cellar tour.
Despite the wind being crazy strong on the day I went, I had the most amazing time with estate manager, Chim, who served as the friendly, fun and informative tour guide.
You set off in the safari-style Land Rover (maximum of ten guests per tour) and enjoy several fun stops along the way.
Each provides a different vista and background narrative to this beautiful, sustainably run farm.
I loved hearing about the farm’s history – but, with a glass of Jordan’s impeccable wines in your hand: the views and scenery are what really steal the show.
On my tour, I sampled the following of Jordan’s wines:
- Jordan Cold Fact Sauvignon Blanc 2021
- Jordan Unoaked Chardonnay 2020
- Jordan The Real McCoy Riesling 2021
- Jordan The Prospector Syrah
- Jordan Black Magic Merlot 2019
Each was excellent but my top picks were the Chardonnay and Merlot. You can read more about the vineyard safari experience here.
Tours last for between 1.5 – two hours so you certainly get your money’s worth for R625 per person.
Tours are weather-permitting and subject to availability and pre-booking is required.
Giving Back to People and the Planet
One of the things that most impressed me about Jordan is its consciousness towards giving back to people and the planet. Even the estate’s adorable Cape chameleons (which even have their own road sign) are carefully cared for here.
Jordan is involved with several wonderful initiatives, including Premium Independent Wineries of South Africa (PIWOSA), Women in Wine, Jordan Chameleon Research Bursary and the Bumble Bee Fund. You can read more about these here.
In addition to this give-back campaigns, Jordan also has a sustainably minded farming approach, ensuring that they leave as gentle a footprint on the planet as possible.
How It Rated Overall
Overall, Jordan Wines is a truly stunning, vast estate, equipped with incredible wines, excellent staff, amazing food and wonderful scenery. It makes for a highly memorable visit and as you roll down the driveway, you are already mentally planning your next visit.
Contact Information
For more information on Jordan Wines, please contact: +27 (021) 881 3441 or email them at reservations@jordanwines.com.
You can also visit their website or find them for yourself at Jordan Wines, Stellenbosch Kloof Road, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa.
Jordan Wines is also on leading social media platforms, so be sure to connect with and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
About the Author
