🌿 Klein Goederust Winery: A Proud Black-Owned Gem in Franschhoek

If there’s one stop on the Wine Tram that left the biggest imprint on us, it was Klein Goederust Winery. This estate isn’t just about wine—it’s about history, family, and transformation. In many ways, it’s a story that resembles our own.

Founded in 1905, the farm had fallen into neglect over the years. Then, in 2019, Paul Siguqa purchased the property and began breathing new life into it, making Klein Goederust the first Black-owned wine estate and wine farm in Franschhoek. From the moment we arrived, we could feel the heart behind this place. The property, staff, and atmosphere left us in awe.

As we wandered through the tasting room, our eyes were drawn to the photographs lining the walls. They featured the mother of the current owner, her smile radiating pride. In each picture, you could almost sense the joy she must have felt seeing this dream take shape. Oddly enough, we felt the same way—proud, delighted, and inspired by the beauty and care poured into this estate.

🍇 The Wines

Klein Goederust produces beloved South African favorites—Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rosé—but the real magic lies in how they’re shared. Each pour felt less like a formal tasting and more like being welcomed to someone’s table.

We found a cozy spot by the fireplace, sank into the most comfortable chairs, and savored every sip. Denise and I fell for the sweet dessert wines, while Wayne leaned toward the Sauvignon Blanc.

Their lineup also includes Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, blends, Cap Classique (including the “Nomaroma” MCC named after Paul Siguqa’s mother), and late harvest wines. Our must-take-home bottles? The Natural Sweet Chenin Blanc and Chenin Blanc.

🍴 The Experience

Unlike some polished, tourist-heavy stops, Klein Goederust felt warm, authentic, and family-oriented. The restaurant celebrates traditional South African flavors, with hearty, braai-style dishes designed to make you linger a little longer. We missed our chance to eat this time, but we promised ourselves that the mistake won’t happen again.

We also learned something exciting—the estate plans to host a Grand Opening in December 2025, with potential overnight accommodations. If that’s not reason enough to return, I don’t know what is.

✨ Why It Stole Our Hearts

Klein Goederust reminded us that wine isn’t only about notes and ratings—it’s about people, place, and story. The Solomon family has turned this vineyard into more than just a winery; it’s a symbol of inclusivity and transformation in South Africa’s wine industry.

It’s safe to say this stop became one of our favorites (5.0 out of 5.0), not just for the wine but for the story it tells. And yes—this is the winery that guarantees we’ll return to Franschhoek.

If Day One was about finding our rhythm, Day Two was about turning it up a notch. The Red Line carried us deeper into Franschhoek’s wine country, with stops that made us laugh harder, sip slower, and savor the magic of the Wine Tram all over again. Stay tuned.