Favorable teroirs, carefully chosen cultivaars,a unique micor climate and a French viticulure tradition that dates back to 1694 - when the Huguenots planted the first vines in the valley - combine to produce a diverse range of fine wines. From straw-colored whites and honey-hued dessert wines to burgundy and plum-colored reds, Franschhoek's wines are celebrted by connoisseurs arouund the world. 
Visiting Franschhoek is an unforgettable experience. Majestic mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the neat rows of freshly ploughed earth and vines that dazzle with their dark green leaves. The edge of the rows occasionally have a bed of protea's the South African naational flower. 
Franschhoek, is often described as the gourment capital of South Africa. Here culinary excellence is the touchstone. Franschhoek is also the source of suberb honey, and a resident chocolatier. Art and craft shopes in the village and at the wineries provide hours of browsing
I will list the various wine estates that I visited during my 2 week visit. Even though I managed to visit many of the vineyards and eat at many of the restaurants, i didn't even "scratch the surface" of the valley's treats.
RICKETY BRIDGE
This delightful winery is nestled against the hillside of Franschhoek. Prominent wines - Reserve Cabernet Savignon and Shiraz
The property opened its doors in 2012. Grapes are sourced from 5 climatic regions, allowing the production of a wide variet of wines.
This historic estate, dating back to 1694, is an impressive blend of old and new. The Gallery has established itself as a leading venue for contemporaty South African Art.
Known for their sparkling wines, and gourmet dining restaurant.
Great restaurant, beautiful environment.
One of the newer wineries. Great restuarant.Great art collection.
LA BOURGOGNE
SO WHERE'S THE WINE TASTING ?
Small winery, good cabernet's.
Small winery.
NEETHLINGSHOF
Large production wine.
Spier is one of the oldest wine farms in South Africa, dating back to 1692.
The winery has won multiple awards in recent years. It has a successful venue for hotel, restaurants, and activities.
Oldest red wine estate. The reference is the the altitude of the vineyards and the high aspirations.
"Gift from God" and the exquisite mountain vistas
Great Restaurant - wonderful view.
HAUTE CABRIERE
Hillside location and extensive terrace. Deep rooted tradition , cellar is under the mountain.
Hiking La Motte trail.....
Baboons on my trail.......
Beautiful sculpture, garden,museum , farm produce and great restaurant. The owner , a member of the Rupert family, Hannah is an opera singer.
Farm to table estate - wonderful food, beautiful grounds....
A beautiful estate and historic wine farm that Laurence Graff, Chairman of Graff Diamonds International transformed in 2003 as the most desirable art, hospitality and wine destination in the area.
THE TASTING ROOM A MICHELIN 3 STAR TREAT
