Benguela Cove Joins Top 100 Of Worlds’ Best Vineyards
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Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate, located in Hermanus in South Africa, has been ranked in the top 100 of The World's Best Vineyards. This prestigious annual list is created to promote wine tourism around the world, showcasing vineyards with exceptional visitor experiences.
The Voting Academy comprises over 500 leading wine experts, sommeliers and travel experts, who nominate vineyards based on criteria that include ambience, activities, cuisine, staff, views, value for money, and quality of the overall experience. The results of the voting are converted into the World's Best Vineyards list.
Benguela Cove Wine Estate is a member of the Benguela Collection international wine and hospitality group and is owned by the Streeter family. Situated on the Hermanus Wine Route, the estate's unique location in a tranquil lagoon at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean sets the stage for an outstanding wine tourism destination.
Penny Streeter OBE says:
"I’m thrilled that Benguela Cove is recognised as one of the World's Best Vineyards, ranking 53rd, from some 65,000 worldwide. We achieved this in just ten years since acquisition. It confirms the tireless dedication of our vineyard and hospitality teams, the commitment to sustainability, and our passion for producing exceptional South African wines.
It's an honour to see our efforts acknowledged on a global scale, and it only strengthens our resolve to continue delivering the best experiences for our visitors. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey."
Other recent accolades include the Cellar Door Experience of the Year award amongst all South African vineyards. The estate offers luxury accommodation for rental in a secure residential area. Each oceanside villa features en suite bedrooms, private pools, and Wi-Fi. The hospitality area at Benguela Cove comprises an oyster bar, the Moody Lagoon Restaurant, wine tastings, and a pontoon tour of the lagoon. The estate also offers year-round entertainment programmes, featuring live music and art exhibitions.
Unique Oceanside Terroir
Penny Streeter acquired the struggling Hermanus wine farm in 2013, which she transformed into today's award-winning wine producer and hospitality venue. Benguela Cove produces 350,000 bottles annually under the guidance of winemaker Johann Fourie.
Benguela Cove's diverse slopes, soils, and exposure to prevailing winds bring out the best in each varietal, creating unique site-specific wines that showcase the estate's terroir. The winery boasts advanced technology, traditional and modern fermentation vessels, and stunning crystal chandeliers.
The estate's South African origins and unique terroir are reflected in its wines which continue to win accolades year after year, including the Tim Atkin South African Special Report, Michelangelo, Winemag, and Platter's competitions.
The estate’s commitment to conservation and sustainability is as strong as its passion for winemaking. It is a World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) Conservation Champion and a leading ecotourism wine destination. The vineyard is situated in the UNESCO-designated Kogelberg Biosphere, uniquely positioned at sea level with the longest seaboard of any vineyard worldwide.
Penny Streeter has taken her vision to the UK, creating new vineyards in Sussex at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens in 2018 with the guidance of Johann Fourie, Benguela's acclaimed South African winemaker. The first wines from the UK vineyards will be available in 2024.
Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate's award-winning wines, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional hospitality make this Hermanus wine farm ideal for any wine lover seeking a unique and unforgettable wine tourism experience.
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Editors notes
Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate, Hermanus, is a vineyard and wine tourism destination located in the Walker Bay region of South Africa. The Benguela Collection wine and hospitality group is owned by the Streeter family. The Benguela Collection includes Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens and Mannings Golf & Wine Estate in the UK.
It was founded by Penny Streeter OBE in 2013 when she acquired and developed the 543-acre Hermanus wine farm and residential estate at Benguela Cove, located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean at the start of the Hermanus Wine Route.
Cultivars are Sauvignon Blanc 45%, Shiraz 25% and others, to create some of the best South African wines.
At Benguela Cove, guests can experience world class attractions, and superb wines. Located in the UNESCO-designated Kogelberg Biosphere, Benguela Cove is a WWF Conservation Champion. Our multi-award-winning Moody Lagoon Restaurant is one of the superb dining options available to guests. This family owned and operated winery, forms part of the international Benguela Collection of wine and hospitality estates.
With unique experiences and attractions for guests of all ages to enjoy, from pontoon boat cruises and vineyard safaris to the art gallery and sculpture park. The kids can even enjoy Little Picasso’s painting sessions, while the adults enjoy a wine tasting at the Best Cellar Door Experience 2022, in South Africa. Waterfront accommodation is also available at the on-site luxury villas.
Vineyard - Acquired in 2013; 170 acres; First vines planted in 2004; 350,000 bottles produced per year.
