The Winelands in the Western Cape are a massive tourist destination. Klink hosts its annual consumer awards and this year was a record-breaking one!
The Klink awards are hosted every year as a way to get the public’s opinion on what is good in the winelands. More than 19,879 votes from wine loving consumers and wine farm visitors decided some of the best wine and food experiences available in the Western Cape Winelands.
It was a record-breaking year! Klink received 8,506 more votes than the previous year!
“Our wine farms are without a doubt and unquestionably at a world-class standard, so it’s a great honour that we can acknowledge the outstanding contribution that they’re making to attract tourists from all over the world to South Africa, and provide them with the unique experience that each one offers.”
“The winners should feel incredibly proud as they certainly competed against some very stiff competitors. A heart felt congratulations to all the winners from us at Wine Tourism South Africa.” – Monika Elias, founder of the Klink Awards
Below are the 14 winners for each category available. These have been voted the best of the best by consumers. Each consumer got one vote, per category rule.
BEST WINELANDS BURGER: WINNER – BEYERSKLOOF
A burger is not just a burger; it is a staple on any menu worth its salt. Whether it is as simple as the good old-fashioned beef variety or something with a twist, the quest was on to find the juiciest, yummiest burger created at a winery eating spot.
WINE COUNTRY CUISINE: WINNER – LEOPARD’S LEAP
This category was selected for bistros, casual dining or café society in the Cape Winelands without all the fancy frills. The search was on for laidback venues, which showcase local and artisanal farm produce in the best possible way.
GREAT PAIRINGS: WINNER – CREATION WINES
From biltong, nuts, dried fruits to cheese, chocolate, nougat and gourmet canapé tasting platters, all go down well with wine. The art is in finding the perfect match.
GOURMET TRAVELLER: WINNER – THE KITCHEN@MAISON
This category recognises gastronomic destinations with signature chefs who create cutting edge cuisine. Restaurants that pay great attention to detail in terms of an overall wine and food experience, have a great location, first-class service, a focus on artisanal and local winelands produce, seasonal favourites and tasting menus which expertly pair food and wine.
OUT OF THE ORDINARY: WINNER – THE FRANSCHHOEK CELLARS
A wild card is the most unusual and memorable attraction, something that offers a unique selling point for attracting wine tourists to the cellar door.
BOUTIQUE CELLARS: WINNER – HILLCREST ESTATE
“Small production”, “artisanal” or even “cult”…boutique is more a state of mind than a number of bottles. It is more of an attitude than a location.
SA WINE ICON: WINNER – GROOT CONSTANTIA WINE ESTATE
This category is for wineries that have invested time and passion into making quality wine. These icons are brands that have proven themselves both locally and internationally, and have contributed to building SA wine culture.
BEST BUBBLY: WINNER – GRAHAM BECK
For breakfast, lunch…or actually, anytime. The search was on for a MCC that is out of this world, quirky and fun and the ultimate experience at a tasting room – the best to quaff, sip or savour.
GREAT OUTDOORS: WINNER – WATERFORD ESTATE
A spectacularly scenic vineyard hike, a challenging wine farm bike trail, a spirited wine route horse ride or something a little more challenging, a taste of adventure to a winelands offering was what this category was all about.
EVENTS & FESTIVALS: WINNER – ROBERTSON WINE ON THE RIVER
An event, festival, or winery event, which draws visitors and helps to build a regional wine brand or market a specific wine route destination.
ON THE HOP: WINNER – DARLING BREW
There’s something of a craft beer evolution in South Africa. With around 130 craft breweries, it is no wonder that beer adds a unique style, pair-ability with cured meats and cheeses, and a complementary relationship with wine.
TOURING: WINNER – CITY SIGHT SEEING WINE TOUR
A new addition to our categories. Touring companies were called upon – big and small – in order to uncover the brightest gems of destinations, experiences, wine and food that are distinctively wine tourism.
THE ULTIMATE WINELANDS EXPERIENCE: WINNER – GROOT CONSTANTIA WINE ESTATE
This is the perfect package. One that successfully seduces, not just with a tasting experience, but also with the ambience to match. Architecture, furnishings, lighting, sound, temperature and kinetics, which combine in different ways to enhance the brand experience of their customers.
SUPANOVA: WINNER – HILLCREST ESTATE
This award went to the Klink finalist with the most overall consumer votes.