Summer Wine Tastings & Pairings at Alto Wine Estate

Alto Wine Estate invites wine enthusiasts to indulge in a range of thoughtfully curated tasting experiences, set against the backdrop of the estate’s scenic vineyards.

Each pairing is crafted to enhance the flavor profile of Alto’s celebrated wines, offering guests a memorable journey through the estate’s signature varietals.

Smoked Cheese and Wine Pairing

For those with a love of rich, smoky flavors, the smoked cheese and wine pairing promises a unique twist. This tasting experience includes four wines, each matched with a distinct cold-smoked cheese. The tasting begins with the estate’s beloved Alto Rouge, complemented by a nettle-infused cheddar, followed by a black pepper cheddar paired with the Shiraz. Alto’s award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon is paired with a traditional Boerenkaas, while the Estate Blend harmonizes beautifully with a mature cheddar. Each pairing is meticulously crafted to bring out the wine’s bold undertones, with the gentle smokiness of the cheese providing a delightful contrast. This experience is available at R160 per person.

Biltong and Wine Pairing

Another South African classic, the biltong and wine pairing, offers a rustic yet refined taste of local flavors. Guests are welcomed with Alto Rouge paired with barbeque biltong, creating a smoky and spicy introduction. The Shiraz, with its peppery notes, is perfectly suited to a smoky biltong, while the Cabernet Sauvignon pairs with a salty biltong, enhancing the wine’s robust character. The experience culminates with the estate’s Flagship Estate Blend matched with a parmesan and truffle biltong, a fitting finale that merges umami flavors with a touch of sophistication. This pairing is also offered at R160 per person.

Summer Canapé & Wine Pairing

Alto’s latest tasting, the Summer Canapé and wine pairing, celebrates the light, fresh flavors of Italian-inspired canapés. Available exclusively from Friday to Sunday, this seasonal option kicks off with a refreshing Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé, paired with a skewer of melon, prosciutto, basil, and bocconcini, drizzled with balsamic glaze. The iconic Alto Rouge—marking its 100th vintage—comes next, paired with seared beef, caramelized onion, and rosa tomato on bruschetta. The Shiraz 2019 pairs beautifully with a pulled lamb shoulder raviolo, served with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and crispy capers, while the award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 finds its match in a biltong and parmesan arancini, accented by truffle aioli. This pairing is available for R225 per person, with advance booking required.

Additional Pairing Platters

To complement any of the tasting experiences, Alto also offers an array of sharing platters, including cheese, charcuterie, antipasto, and vineyard platters, each designed to elevate the tasting experience and provide a delightful accompaniment to their wines.

Bookings can be made directly through Alto’s website, with 24-hour notice required for the Summer Canapé & wine pairing.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Alto’s award-winning varietals or simply looking to explore new flavor combinations, these thoughtfully crafted tasting experiences provide the perfect opportunity to savor the estate’s best offerings in a warm and welcoming setting.