BRAND NEW on the Paarl wine route, off the beaten track, are the bistro, cellar and tasting room at Brookdale Estate of British businessman and property developer Tim Rudd. Among the foothills of the Klein Drakenstein mountains, the home of luxurious accommodation – and one of the most talked-about South African Chenin Blancs on the world stage last year – opened to the public after years of being for manor house guests only.

À la carte rather than a set menu, both indoor and outdoor seating, with a terrace presenting views of the surrounding vineyard and valley. Starters from R125 to R220, mains from R160 to R380. The bistro winelist, described as a work in progress, features the Brookdale range – including their single-vineyard Old Vine Chenin – but also whites and reds from outside the district. Interesting bubbly choice: no Champagne, with the Aristea Cap Classique sparkling wine of Constantia producer Matthew Krone given exclusivity. In fact there are numerous Aristea listings, with ‘wow’ appeal thanks to producers Kershaw, Alheit, Thorne & Daughters, Savage and the Sadie Family, to name just some.

• For all of the places to lunch at on top Cape wine farms in Paarl, among the vines, click here.