Unique Wine Pairings Along the Wine Tram Route
(Credit: Haute Cabrière)
One of the best things about exploring Franschhoek with the Wine Tram is discovering experiences you may not have expected.
While wine tasting is, of course, at the heart of every route, many of our partner estates have created unique pairings that take the experience a step further. From oysters and Cap Classique to Turkish delight and chocolate brownies, these pairings offer a delicious way to experience wine through a different lens.
Here are a few unique pairings to add to your next Wine Tram adventure.
Cap Classique & Oysters at Grande Provence
Some pairings are classics for a reason. At Grande Provence, fresh oysters are paired with crisp Cap Classique, creating a combination that is elegant, refreshing, and perfectly suited to a Franschhoek afternoon. The bright acidity and fine bubbles complement the delicate flavour of the oysters beautifully.
(Credit: Grande Provence)
Liquorice & Wine Pairing at Paserene
Looking for something a little unexpected? Indulge in the pairing of Paserene wines with Lakrids by Bülow’s premium chocolate-coated liquorice. The bold, distinctive flavours of liquorice interact with the wines in surprising ways, highlighting different characteristics with each sip and bite.
(Credit: Paserene)
Wine & Macaron Pairing at Haute Cabrière
A favourite among visitors, Haute Cabrière’s wine and macaron pairing brings together delicate French-inspired treats and carefully selected wines. The sweetness, texture, and flavour of each macaron are thoughtfully matched to complement the wine, creating a playful yet sophisticated tasting experience.
(Credit: Haute Cabrière)
Wine & Turkish Delight at La Bri
At La Bri, traditional Turkish delight offers a unique pairing partner for their wines. The soft, fragrant confection creates an interesting contrast with the structure and fruit character of the wines, making for a memorable tasting experience.
(Credit: La Bri)
Chocolate & Wine Pairing at Vrede en Lust
Chocolate and wine remain one of the most indulgent pairing experiences in the valley. At Vrede en Lust, carefully selected chocolates are matched with wines that enhance and elevate the flavours of both, creating a rich and rewarding tasting journey.
(Credit: Vrede en Lust)
Macaron Pairing at Zorgvliet
Zorgvliet’s macaron pairing offers another delicious take on this popular combination. Expect beautifully crafted macarons paired with wines that bring out subtle flavour nuances and create a balanced tasting experience.
(Credit: Zorgvliet)
Chocolate Brownie Pairing at Lynx
For those with a sweet tooth, the chocolate brownie pairing at Lynx is not to be missed. Rich, decadent brownies meet carefully selected wines in a pairing designed to satisfy and surprise.
(Credit: Zorgvliet)
Wine & Pizza Pairing at Le Pommier
Sometimes the simplest pairings are the most satisfying. At Le Pommier, wood-fired pizza meets estate wines in a relaxed and flavourful tasting experience. The combination of crispy bases, fresh toppings, and carefully selected wines showcases just how well great food and wine can complement one another. It’s a laid-back pairing that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family while soaking up the Winelands atmosphere.
(Credit: Le Pommier)
Angels Tears & Nougat Pairing at Grande Provence
For those who enjoy something a little sweeter, Grande Provence’s Angel Tears & Nougat pairing is a delightful treat. Their naturally sweet Angel Tears wine is paired with handcrafted nougat, creating a tasting experience that balances rich, honeyed flavours with soft textures and subtle nutty notes. Elegant and indulgent, it’s the perfect way to round off a day in the Winelands.
(Credit: Grande Provence)
Make Your Next Wine Tram Journey Even More Memorable
Whether you’re drawn to sweet treats, savoury delights, or something completely unexpected, these unique pairings offer a wonderful way to explore the Franschhoek Wine Valley.
As you plan your next Wine Tram adventure, consider adding one (or several) of these experiences to your itinerary. You may just discover a new favourite pairing along the way.
A Few Tips Before You Book
- Try not to fit too many estates into one day. We recommend 3 – 4 estates to visit in a day.
- Choose a route based on the kind of experience you want, not just the number of stops.
- Book restaurants ahead of time, especially over weekends and public holidays.
- pairing experiences may require pre-booking and are subject to availability. Check with the estate directly before your visit.
- Leave space in your day for spontaneous stops or longer lunches.
- If you’re travelling with children, look out for estates with lawns, picnics, and outdoor seating.
Frequently Asked Questions
The wine and oyster pairing at Grande Provence is special because it combines fresh oysters with crisp Cap Classique, offering a refreshing and elegant tasting experience.
This classic pairing is beloved for its ability to enhance the delicate flavour of oysters with the bright acidity and fine bubbles of Cap Classique. The crispness of the wine complements the briny taste of the oysters, creating a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and sophisticated. This pairing is ideal for a leisurely afternoon in Franschhoek, allowing you to savour the unique characteristics of both the wine and the seafood. Grande Provence’s scenic setting further enhances the experience, making it a memorable stop on your wine tram journey.
Paserene’s liquorice and wine pairing works by combining their wines with Lakrids by Bülow’s chocolate-coated liquorice, creating a bold and unexpected tasting experience.
The distinctive flavours of liquorice interact with the wines in surprising ways, highlighting different characteristics with each sip and bite. This pairing showcases how the sweetness and spiciness of liquorice can bring out unique notes in the wine, offering a new perspective on traditional wine tasting. Paserene’s innovative approach encourages guests to explore the interplay between these flavours, making it a must-try for those seeking something different. This experience is perfect for adventurous palates looking to discover new flavour combinations in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley.
The wine and macaron pairing at Haute Cabrière is popular because it combines delicate French-inspired treats with carefully selected wines, creating a playful yet sophisticated tasting experience.
Each macaron is thoughtfully matched to complement the wine, enhancing both the sweetness and texture of the macarons and the nuanced flavours of the wine. This pairing offers a delightful exploration of how the rich, creamy texture of macarons can balance the acidity and fruitiness of the wines. Visitors enjoy the whimsical yet refined nature of this pairing, which adds an element of fun to the wine tasting journey. Haute Cabrière’s picturesque setting and commitment to quality make this pairing a favourite among guests exploring the Franschhoek Valley.
At Vrede en Lust, the chocolate and wine pairing offers a rich and rewarding tasting journey by matching carefully selected chocolates with wines that enhance and elevate the flavours of both.
This indulgent experience highlights how the complex notes of chocolate can complement the diverse profiles of different wines. The pairing is designed to explore the interplay between sweetness, bitterness, and acidity, providing a multi-layered tasting experience. Guests can expect to discover new flavour dimensions as the chocolates bring out hidden nuances in the wines. Vrede en Lust’s commitment to quality and attention to detail ensures that each pairing is a treat for the senses, making it a must-visit for chocolate and wine enthusiasts alike.
The wine and Turkish delight pairing at La Bri enhances the tasting experience by offering a unique contrast between the soft, fragrant confection and the structured, fruit-forward wines.
This pairing creates an interesting interplay of textures and flavours, with the sweetness and aromatic qualities of the Turkish delight complementing the wine’s complexity. The combination allows for a deeper appreciation of the wine’s character, as the confection’s flavours highlight different aspects of the wine with each taste. This experience is memorable for its ability to transform a traditional wine tasting into a sensory journey, encouraging guests to explore the diverse possibilities of flavour pairings. La Bri’s serene setting further enriches the experience, making it a delightful addition to any wine tram itinerary.
Whilst most Franschhoek restaurants focus on refined cuisine and wine pairings, Klein Goederust celebrates South African culinary traditions through their relaxed braai experience. The venue creates a genuine local atmosphere where visitors can experience traditional cooking methods and flavours in a casual, friendly setting. This approach offers tourists and locals alike the chance to enjoy authentic South African hospitality and cuisine, making it a refreshing alternative to the more formal dining experiences found elsewhere in the valley.
