KWV Cathedral Cellar
Experience exquisite wine and brandy tastings in the grand, renovated Cathedral Cellar, blending history with modern sophistication.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
KWV Cathedral Cellar
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience exquisite wine and brandy tastings in the grand, renovated Cathedral Cellar, blending history with modern sophistication.
"The combination of their outstanding brandies and the stunning new tasting room makes for an unforgettable outing."
🎯 Book Ahead for Tastings
Secure your spot for wine, brandy, or gin tastings by booking in advance, especially on weekends.
🍷 Explore Varied Tastings
From red wines to brandy & chocolate, KWV offers diverse pairings to suit every palate.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cathedral Cellar Itself
Main Tasting Area
Experience the grandeur of this historic cellar, a truly unique and atmospheric setting for wine and brandy tastings.
Premium Wine Pairings
Tasting Room
Indulge in expertly curated wine tastings, often paired with delicious accompaniments like cheesecake or nougat liqueur.
Brandy & Chocolate Experience
Tasting Room
Savor the rich flavors of KWV brandies expertly matched with decadent chocolates for a luxurious treat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tasting in Advance
Explore Diverse Tasting Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Tastings
Secure your spot for wine, brandy, or gin tastings by booking in advance, especially on weekends.
🍷 Explore Varied Tastings
From red wines to brandy & chocolate, KWV offers diverse pairings to suit every palate.
🍫 Don't Miss Brandy Pairings
The brandy and chocolate tasting is a standout experience, highly recommended by visitors.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Options
Kiddies' entertainment packs are available for purchase to keep little ones happy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Tastings
Secure your spot for wine, brandy, or gin tastings by booking in advance, especially on weekends.
🍷 Explore Varied Tastings
From red wines to brandy & chocolate, KWV offers diverse pairings to suit every palate.
🍫 Don't Miss Brandy Pairings
The brandy and chocolate tasting is a standout experience, highly recommended by visitors.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Options
Kiddies' entertainment packs are available for purchase to keep little ones happy.
✨ Stunning Ambiance
Enjoy the beautiful, renovated interior that enhances the overall tasting experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning ambiance and the quality of the wine and brandy tastings at KWV Cathedral Cellar, particularly the expertly matched pairings. While the beautiful, renovated space enhances the experience, some guests have noted inconsistencies in service, with a few experiencing staff who lacked personality or engagement. Despite this, the overall sentiment leans positive, with many eager to return for different tasting experiences.
"Stepping into the Emporium's newly renovated space, it's clear that a significant amount of thought and effort has gone into creating an atmosphere that perfectly complements their exceptional brandies. The transformation is striking, elevating the tasting experience from start to finish.
The new decor strikes a beautiful balance between modern sophistication and the rich heritage of brandy making. I especially appreciated the display shelving and comfortable seating arrangements. It felt both luxurious and incredibly welcoming, providing the ideal backdrop for a relaxed and informative tasting.
The combination of their outstanding brandies and the stunning new tasting room makes for an unforgettable outing. I highly recommend it"
Christo du Preez
"Went to KWV Emporium in Paarl on a mission: conquer the gin tasting. We bravely sipped through the Cruxland Black Winter Truffle, Cruxland Kalahari Truffle, Imagin Citrus, and Imagin Original gins. Spoiler alert: my taste buds were not impressed—they all missed the mark and left me with a serious case of dry mouth (not the kind you want).
But hey, the staff? Absolute legends—friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about their craft. So much so, I’m convinced they could teach a masterclass on how to make you feel fancy while your palate throws a tantrum. Also HAVE to mention the beautiful interior - STUNNING!
We left empty-handed in the gin department but scored a sweet consolation prize: a bottle of Sally Williams Nougat Liqueur. Because if life gives you dry mouth, make it delicious instead.
Plot twist: We’re already planning our return visit to try other tastings—because apparently, my taste buds are picky but my curiosity isn’t!"
Debbie (Atomic-Chicken)
"During my recent visit to the KWV Emporium I had a great experience. They truly have a tasting experience for everyone. Within our group we did a couple of different tastings from a Premium Red Wine selection to a Cap Classique with cheesecake and a Brandy and chocolate (which is the one I did). Every tasting was a hit, and the pairings were perfectly well-matched. An added bonus was the kiddies' entertainment packs (purchased separately), complete with snacks and drawing materials, which kept the little ones happy. The lady that did our tasting, Kim, was also friendly and helpful, making the experience even better. If you're planning a day in Paarl, the KWV Emporium is a must-visit!"
Dewald Reinke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
KWV Cathedral Cellar is located in Paarl, South Africa. It's easily accessible by car, and is a popular stop for those exploring the Cape Winelands. Consider ride-sharing services or designated drivers if you plan on indulging in tastings.
Yes, ample parking is typically available at the KWV Emporium, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! KWV Cathedral Cellar is a frequent stop on many Cape Winelands tours. Many tour operators include it in their itineraries, offering a hassle-free way to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tasting experience in advance, especially for weekends or specific pairings, to guarantee your spot.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official KWV website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their operating times.
Tasting prices vary depending on the type of tasting selected (wine, brandy, gin, etc.) and any included pairings. It's advisable to check their website for current pricing.
Yes, you can purchase bottles of the wines and brandies you enjoyed during your tasting at the KWV Emporium shop.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
KWV Cathedral Cellar offers a variety of tastings, including premium red wines, Cap Classique with cheesecake, brandy and chocolate pairings, and gin tastings.
The beautifully renovated tasting room at KWV Emporium provides a sophisticated atmosphere that can be suitable for private events and functions. Inquire directly with KWV for event bookings.
Visitors consistently praise the stunning, renovated interior which strikes a balance between modern sophistication and heritage, creating a welcoming and luxurious ambiance.
Yes, KWV Emporium offers kiddies' entertainment packs for purchase, which include snacks and drawing materials, to keep younger visitors engaged.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the focus is on tastings, some pairings may include small accompaniments like cheesecake or nougat. For full meals, consider dining at restaurants in Paarl.
Typically, outside food is not permitted as the experience is centered around their curated tastings and pairings.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, allowing you to capture the beautiful ambiance and your tasting experience. Be mindful of other guests and staff.
The grand Cathedral Cellar itself, the beautifully decorated tasting room, and your artfully presented tasting platters are all excellent subjects for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This allows parents to relax and savor their tasting experience without the added stress of keeping children entertained. The spacious and beautiful surroundings also provide a pleasant environment for the whole family. It's a great way to introduce children to the concept of a vineyard visit in a structured and enjoyable manner.
🥂 Couples and Wine Aficionados
The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the nuances of each wine or spirit, enhancing your appreciation. It's an ideal setting for a leisurely afternoon, allowing you to connect over shared sensory discoveries in a beautiful, historic environment.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Cape Town
Combine your visit with other nearby wine estates or attractions in Paarl for a full day of exploration. The diverse tasting options mean you can tailor the experience to your group's preferences, whether it's wine, brandy, or gin. Remember to arrange transportation, such as a designated driver or ride-sharing, if you plan on tasting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The KWV Cathedral Cellar Experience
The core of the visit revolves around their diverse tasting options. Whether you're drawn to premium red wines, the decadent combination of brandy and chocolate, or even their range of gins, there's a curated experience for every palate. The pairings are frequently highlighted as being exceptionally well-matched, elevating the flavors of both the wine/spirit and the accompanying food.
Beyond the tastings themselves, the staff's passion and knowledge are frequently cited as a significant factor in the positive experience. While some reviews mention service inconsistencies, many highlight friendly and helpful staff who enhance the overall enjoyment. The availability of kiddies' entertainment packs also makes it a viable destination for families looking to enjoy a sophisticated outing.
Exploring KWV's Wine and Brandy Offerings
The brandy and chocolate pairing is another signature experience that consistently receives rave reviews. This tasting expertly marries the rich, complex notes of KWV's brandies with carefully selected chocolates, creating a harmonious and indulgent sensory journey. It's a sophisticated treat that appeals to both seasoned connoisseurs and those new to brandy.
While the focus is often on wine and brandy, KWV also offers other tasting experiences, such as their gin range. These provide a different facet of their product innovation and are a great option for those looking for something beyond traditional wine tasting. The variety ensures that most visitors can find a tasting that aligns with their preferences.
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