nabygelegen – a hidden gem in wellington


I had never heard about Nabygelegenwine farm until recently, so going out to visit this week was like discovering a little gem. Meaning ‘lying nearby’, its tucked just below Bains Kloof pass and is a place rich with history. The farm itself goes back to the early 18th century and has a very old history of wine making, with the original cellar building dating back to well before its inscribed 1815. Open concrete fermenting tanks, stone foot presses and an underground storage tank now form part of the barrel maturation room.

Their wine range consists of: Sauvignon Blanc, the Lady Anna, Chenin Blanc, Scaramanga, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Nabygelegen 1712 and Grappa. Tasting notes and more information on the wine can be found on their website here.

They also produce a small quantity of estate olive oil.
I have a bit of a soft spot for Wellington and think its the Boland town that’s the least commercialised but is equally as pretty and thus more appealing.
James McKenzie, the owner and wine maker of Nabygelegen has recently restored the beautiful Gate House, one of the original buildings on the farm, and this along with its own private swimming pool is available to rent.


James took me on a walk around the beautiful farm whilst the shoulder of boar I was roasting was in the oven.




Find out more about Nabygelegen on their website or visit their facebook page to hear about upcoming events and happenings.
One of the other very exciting activities of the day was the opportunity ot cook for the first time, wild boar. Im going to write about that in my next blog post.
wow, so beautiful. do they offer accomodation on teh farm?
This looks just up my street and afraid to say, I have never been to Wellington! *blushes profusely*. Definitely my next weekend away.
Hi Karen, yes the Gate House (in the article) is available to rent (including private pool)
Hi Bern, I love it! its much more ‘farmy’ and rustic and there are some incredible places to visit. A bit limited on the restaurant front though. But check out the Stone Kitchen.
https://drizzleanddip.com/2011/06/01/a-day-in-wellington
sam
Sam thanks so much for coming to visit us at Nabygelegen and for your fantastic write up on the farm! Look forward to seeing you again soon!!
Pleasure Cath, it was lovely to spend a day in the country.
see you soon!
S x
Thank you for the write up. I absolutely agree it is a very special wine farm. Catherine is just such a delightful person and we really enjoyed our trip to the farm and to Wellington. Absolute hidden gem of a town – so much to offer, mostly, the hospitality is incredible. Love the people and the vibe, so laid back yet professional ! Never got to meet James… maybe next time 🙂
I’m so glad it was awesome for you Frances and now Wellington has its own official wine route, so I m sure that things will grow.