Best Winter Wine Pairings near Cape Town in 2026

Lead photo credit: Middelvlei

It’s true that, at times, (especially during an icy cold front or epic Cape Storm) winter in the Western Cape can be a miserable, dreary affair.

But overall, the Mother City has so many incredible indoor and outdoor experiences and foodie offerings that most locals and tourists don’t seem to mind a bit of rain or wind too much, even during its freezing wintertime.

And, even if they do, it’s nothing that good quality South African fare and our award-winning wines can’t fix!

In light of this, we’re sharing some of the best winter wine pairings near Cape Town to savour during winter ‘26:

A Rooibos-infused Wine Experience at Klawer Wines

This West Coast wine estate is a bit of a drive from the city but, if you are in the area or up for a road trip, it’s well worth it.

Especially when you hear they have a range of perfectly winter-appropriate pairings on offer, with everything from red wine and chocolate to olives and wine.

But, for this post, it’s their unique rooibos pairing that we wish to focus on.

Photo credit: Klawer Wynkelder/Wines via Facebook

Why Try It?

Because, for R80 per person, you can sample a variety of delicious treats, infused with healthy rooibos properties, and some beautiful Klawer wines.

First up, there’s the sweet, rooibos-infused fudge with Villa Esposito Sauvignon Blanc or the also oddly sweet tasting Melba toast and locally made rooibos-infused drizzle with the Villa Esposto Rose.

Next, there’s the South African favourite pinotage (this is the Klawer Pinotage, in this instance) that is enjoyed with rooibos-infused biscotti, dipped in chocolate.

Lastly, there is also a salty soya sauce cracker with Klawer Cabernet Sauvignon and a “soetwyn” (sweet wine) rooibos- and Buchu-infused African Vermouth.

Best for Which Type of DK Villas Guests:

Any of our guests will love this uniquely South African wine pairing but it’s a particular winner for adventurous international couples exploring SA or for any families with kids, as they even have a fun kids’ pairing (grape juice and treats) available!

With this in mind, it’s perfect for our guests staying at our Harbour View self-catering apartment, which comfortably sleeps six guests, including children.

Our three-bedroom apartment offers stunning Hout Bay views, luxury amenities and in-room appliances, 24/7 security and safe parking.

Website/socials: www.klawerwine.co.za

Location: Birdfield Farm, N7, Klawer.

Braaibroodjies and Tapas at Middelvlei

Situated in the stylish Stellenbosch Winelands, Middelvlei is famous for its unique braai-style offerings.

And what could be more perfectly South African and wintertime-inspired than braaibroodjies (delicious toasties made on a South African barbeque) and wine tapas?

Why Try It?

Because it’s a quintessential South African favourite paired with wine! There are three braaibroodjie options on offer with the braaibroodjie pairing (including snoek and cottage cheese paired with Middelvlei Chardonnay; boerewors and mozzarella braaibroodjie with Middelvlei free-run Pinotage; and lastly, fig and brie braaibroodjie with Middelvlei Cabernet Sauvignon). This pairing is available Wednesday to Sunday.

If that doesn’t whet your winter appetite, then Middelvlei also has a tapas and wine pairing, which stars some quality wines served with mini potbrood and snoek pate, biltong and mozzarella braaibroodjie and a cocktail boerewors sosatie.

Best for Which Type of DK Villas Guests:

We love this option for families or friends staying over together at either our three-bedroom Harbour View or two-bedroom The Boardwalk self-catering apartments.

As Middelvlei offers a great atmosphere, farm experience and even a kiddies’ pairing!

Either way, our guests are assured a central Hout Bay location with its own unique interiors, beautiful views, close proximity to local restaurants and attractions, luxury amenities and appliances and of course, 24/7 security and safe parking to boot.

Website/socials: middelvlei.co.za

Location: Middelvlei Wine Estate, Flamingo Street, Stellenbosch

Other Winter Pairings to Try in 2026:

If you need some further inspiration, check out these other perfectly winter-appropriate pairings:

• Imbuko Wines’s pie and wine
• Cape Point Vineyards’s sushi and wine
• Blaauwklippen’s pizza and wine
• Skilpadvlei’s cheesecake and wine
• Durbanville Hill’s biltong and wine