Hazendal Wine Estate in Stellenbosch has a rich and diverse heritage, which has led to it becoming one of this wine region's most visited estates. Established in 1699, Hazendal was initially a cattle farm - wine, however, was cultivated from an early stage. Originally owned by German Christoff Hazenwinkel, the farm was given to him by Cape Governor Simon Van Der Stel himself and is one of the oldest and most established in the Stellenbosch wine region.

Hazendal has changed owners several times since its inception. In the 18th Century - apart from being a wine estate - Hazendal was used as a stopover for ox wagons travelling between Stellenbosch and Cape Town, because it was situated on the main road that connected these two cities. The original gateposts, through which the road used to pass and the kraal where oxen were kept, are still standing today and form part of the werf. These are joined in their national monument status by the original wine cellar that was built in 1790. Now a beautiful winelands restaurant, guests can experience what it was like to spend time in this ancient cellar and sample some of the delectable wines that are still made today.

Hazendal's focus was fully shifted from livestock to wine production in the 19th Century and vineyards soon began to dominate the landscape. Most vineyards farmed the Steen grape variety and this particular South African wine became extremely sought after and by the 20th Century was marketed around the country. It was even supplied to the Royals in England. Today, Hazendal's South African wines are a little more varied but equally renowned, often winning awards for their quality and innovative nature.

Get the history of Hazendal in a nutshell by finding out more about some of the estate's most important dates.