Canto Wines has quietly become one of the Durbanville Wine Valley’s must-visit destinations thanks to it’s constantly evolving Cap Classique wines. The minimalist tasting room in the Cape Dutch architectural style will be the first hing you notice, towering around the picturesque countrysid scenes of the valley. Owner Marinus Neethling is an avid wine enthusiast and acquired the 18ha property in 2017 to envision his own approach to boutique winery that you have to try. And although they champion MCCs, the wooded Chardonnay and Pinotage certainly are worth some consideration.
On weekends and public holidays you can pack the blankets for a picnic experience on the lawn while nibbling on produce from the deli and local farms. Read on to find out more.

Wine tastings in Durbanville Wine Valley
There is a large tasting room inside Canto Wines, but if the weather is good, the best seats in the house are outside on the terrace overlooking the vines and gently rolling hills. The tasting room’s interior leans more towards the contemporary style with an airy, casual feel adn polished concrete floors.
Canto Wines prides itself on its wooded Chardonnay, Merlot and sparkling varietals, and these come in a range of price points. Try the MCC tasting which if done with patience, can take you through a spectrum of profiles ranging from a dry finish with a fine balance between fruit and acidity, a declicate strawberry accent with their Pinot Noir MCC, and the buttery Chardonnay variety which is bound to impress.
For something a little slicker than the average, opt for one their pairings where with macarons or canapes such as bobotie spring rolls, bitterballen or arancini. Cheese and charcuterie boards can be ordered with artisan salami, craft cheese, fresh fruit and homemade crackers.

Picnics at Canto Wines
Spend your weekend soaking up some epic scenery of the Durbanville Winelands at Canto Wines. Their picnic experience is available every Saturday and Sunday on a first-come, first-served basis. With a minimum spend of R180pp at the deli, you’ll secure a cosy picnic spot on the lawn. Wine and drinks for your own account.
Choose from a tempting selection of cheeses, charcuterie, condiments and more. The team also offer gourmet marshmallows and delicate macarons for those with a sweet tooth.
Children will love the open space and the cricket pitch overlooking the vineyards. There are only have ten picnic spots available and each one accommodates up to four people. Arrive early and enjoy a laid-back and quiet afternoon.
Cost: From R180pp, reserve via email at [email protected] or call 021 492 2821
When: Saturday, 10am to 6pm. Sunday, 10am to 5pm
Where: Canto Wines, Vissershok Rd, Durbanville, Cape Town

Dine on thin-crust Neapolitan pizza
The dining space at Canto Wines doubles as a humble pizza outpost that takes the fuss out of overimagined toppings for something simply delicious. Here, their shortlist of pizzas are served in the Neapolitan style with a think crust base that comes baked just right.
Go for the Canto which comes topped with biltong, blue cheese, feta, fig preserve with a dash of fieriness, and pairs quite well with wine. There’s also a special pizza for kiddos and the kitchen can accommodate vegans and vegetarians.
Cost: A la carte menu, reserve via email at [email protected] or call 021 492 2821
When: Wednesday and Thursday, 10am to 5pm. Friday and Saturday, 10am to 6pm. Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Where: Canto Wines, Vissershok Rd, Durbanville, Cape Town
Get in touch
Website: cantowines.co.za