HERITAGE AROUND
EVERY CORNER

South Africa's most loved wine region

HISTORY & TERROIR

THE HISTORY
OF OUR WINES

HISTORY & TERROIR

THE HISTORY
OF STELLENBOSCH

1697

Stellenbosch is founded and named by Governor Simon van der Stel.

1697

Stellenbosch becomes an independent local authority.

1687

The Kweekskool is built.

1690

French Huguenot refugees settle in Stellenbosch and plant grapes with the intention of producing wine.

1723

The Moederkerk is built to replace the original church of Stellenbosch, which was burnt down in a fire in 1710. The new church is constructed on the outskirts of town to prevent a similar incident in the future.

1777

The Kruithuis is completed as the munitions building for the Dutch East India Company.

1859

The Theological Seminary for the Dutch Reformed Church is established in Stellenbosch, marking the beginning of higher education in the town. It is housed in the historical Kweekskool building.

1860

Rhenish Girls High School is established.

1866

Stellenbossche Gymnasium is established, later becoming Paul Roos Gymnasium in 1940.

1874

Higher education classes become Victoria College, and then in 1918 University of Stellenbosch.

1914

The Wine Institute building is completed at Elsenberg, marking the beginning of systematic viticultural research in South Africa.

1917

Professor AI Perold is appointed as professor of viticulture and oenology at the University of Stellenbosch, successfully introducing tertiary education in viticulture in South Africa.

1939

The Stellenbosch Town Hall is built, designed by renowned architects Elsworth & Walgate. It currently hosts the Stellenbosch Wine Festival in August.

1971

Stellenbosch Wine Route, the first wine route in the country, is founded.

As a member of our mailing list, you will receive regular newsletters about our latest releases and exclusive offerings.

    The Stellenbosch Wine Club offers members the opportunity to enjoy a regular delivery of premium wines from The Stellenbosch Collection, special releases, dining at Guardian Peak and The Stellenbosch Wine Bar, and other exclusive offers.

    Scroll to Top