Franschhoek Cellar

In 1945, a group of local grape farmers in the Franschhoek Valley banded together to vinify their grapes on a cooperative basis. What they founded -- Franschhoek Vineyards Ltd -- was one of the earliest collective winemaking ventures in a valley that had been producing wine since French Huguenot settlers arrived over 350 years ago. The cooperative model allowed small growers who could not afford their own cellars to produce quality wine under a shared label, and it became a pillar of the community.

Over the decades, Franschhoek Cellar evolved from a traditional co-op into a modern private cellar, but it has never lost its community roots. The cellar sources grapes from across the Franschhoek Valley, giving it access to a diversity of sites and microclimates that few single estates can match. This breadth shows in the portfolio, which spans Bordeaux blends, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Rose, and Methode Cap Classique.

The wine range is structured around several tiers. The Village Walk collection is inspired by the history and heritage of Franschhoek, with wines named after landmarks and monuments in and around the village -- the Statue de Femme Sauvignon Blanc and Baker Station Shiraz among the most recognisable. The Vinologist range positions itself as the premium tier. Across all ranges, the wines aim to capture the joie de vivre of the Franschhoek Valley and the French Huguenot spirit that has shaped the region for centuries.

The cellar's physical home on Main Road in Franschhoek has grown into a substantial visitor destination. Beyond the tasting room, facilities include a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner; a coffee shop and bakery; an art gallery; a children's play area with jungle gym; and function spaces for weddings and corporate events. Guided cellar tours, vineyard tours, art tours, and walking tours are all available, along with private tutored tastings for those seeking a deeper experience. The estate is a stop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram route.

Franschhoek Cellar also holds IPW and WIETA sustainability accreditations, reflecting its commitment to responsible farming and fair labour practices. With a wine club membership, online shop, and free wifi throughout, the cellar has modernised thoroughly while remaining true to its founding purpose: making the wines of the Franschhoek Valley accessible to everyone.

Open seven days a week -- weekdays from 10:00 to 18:00, Saturdays from 09:00 to 18:00, and Sundays from 09:00 to 17:00 -- Franschhoek Cellar is one of the most complete wine destinations in the valley, and certainly one of the most family-friendly.