Stark-Condé Wines

About Stark-Condé Wines

Stark-Condé Wines is a family-run winery making handcrafted wines using tried and true traditional methods. The family property in the Jonkershoek Valley of Stellenbosch is 600 acres with 85 acres under vine. In addition to being viticulturally ideal, the estate is visually spectacular and attracts visitors from afar. Meticulous viticulture, selected harvesting, hand grape- sorting, small-batch fermentation, patient barrel maturation — these are the guiding philosophies behind the wines. The carefully crafted wines speak with the personality of a particular terroir.

Wine

The self-taught cellarmaster, Jose Conde, ventured into winemaking for the first time in 2000. His choice for this inaugural winemaking endeavor was none other than his beloved grape variety, Cabernet Sauvignon. Serendipitously, his father-in-law, Hans Schroder, cultivated what was arguably the finest Cabernet grapes in the region.

Employing rudimentary equipment and adhering to traditional winemaking techniques, Conde’s initial vintage produced a modest 2,400 bottles. However, defying the odds and taking everyone by surprise, this wine went on to earn numerous accolades. It received a coveted 5-star rating in the Platters Wine Guide, a commendable 92 points from Wine Spectator, and was handpicked by esteemed UK wine writer Oz Clarke as one of the Top 20 Wines of the Year. Shop their wine here.

Dine

The renowned Postcard Cafe at Stark-Condé is famous for its delectable cakes and coffee, which complement its Breakfast and Lunch menus. Whether you prefer the outdoor ambience or the indoor setting, you can find seating options to suit your preference. Please note that reservations are essential to secure your spot. The Postcard Cafe operates from Wednesday to Sunday, with opening hours between 09:30 and 16:00. Kindly be aware that it remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Wine Tasting at Stark-Condé Wine Estate

Nestled within the picturesque landscape of the Stark-Condé Wine Estate, wine enthusiasts are in for a truly remarkable tasting experience. The tasting room, a gem of architectural and natural beauty, is a destination in itself.

A Picturesque Setting:

To access the tasting room, visitors cross a charming bridge, which leads them to a remarkable space that seems to float serenely over a lily-studded dam. Oversized windows grace this inviting room, thoughtfully designed to maximize the breathtaking mountain views that surround the estate. The result is an immersive experience that combines the pleasures of wine with the splendour of nature.

Award-Winning Single-Vineyard Wines:

Stark-Condé is renowned for its award-winning single-vineyard wines. Among their most celebrated offerings are the three distinct Cabernets, nurtured at high elevations. Each Cabernet tells a unique story, reflecting the terroir and meticulous craftsmanship that go into its creation.

A Symphony of Flavours:

Beyond Cabernets, Stark-Condé presents a diverse range of wines to delight the palate. Their unique blend of four white varietals is a captivating exploration of tastes and aromas. The Petite Sirah, relatively rare in South Africa, introduces a distinctive grape, setting it apart from the more common Syrah. To add a touch of elegance to a sunny day, their rosé is a perfect choice, sipping beautifully.

Flexible Tasting Options:

At Stark-Condé Wine Estate, visitors have the flexibility to explore this exciting array of wines as they prefer. Whether you’re looking to sample a single wine or enjoy a glass of your favourite, the estate caters to your tastes and preferences.

As you sip and savour these exceptional wines in such a mesmerising setting, you’re certain to discover the passion and dedication that define Stark-Condé’s winemaking craft.

Stay at Stark-Condé Wines Estate

Nestled in the splendid Jonkershoek Valley on the renowned Stark-Condé Wines estate in Stellenbosch, this self-catering cottage features two bedrooms and accommodates up to four guests, making it the perfect retreat for those in search of serenity. While it’s conveniently close to Stellenbosch town, it offers a welcome escape from urban life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the embrace of nature.

Visitors have the opportunity to relish daily wine tastings on the estate, all while taking in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Jonkershoek Mountains that surround them. Stark-Condé also boasts the Postcard Café, where guests can indulge in breakfast, light lunches, and tea service from Wednesdays to Sundays. The cottage is strategically positioned higher up on the estate, affording forest views and partial mountain panoramas. This seclusion provides guests with an optimal level of privacy, tranquillity, and peacefulness during their stay, away from the livelier scenes of the café and tasting room.