Most people head to the Cape Winelands for a glass of wine, but what if your next tasting experience involved something a little more unexpected? Water tasting is a real thing, and at one Stellenbosch wine estate, you can sample six different waters from around the world and discover just how much their taste and texture can differ.
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Water is something most of us drink every day without giving it much thought. We turn on the tap, fill a glass and get on with our lives. But have you ever stopped to consider why one water tastes crisp and light, while another seems softer, silkier or even slightly salty?
It turns out that water can be surprisingly complex. And if you thought wine was the only drink worth tasting under the guidance of a sommelier, there’s a rather unusual experience in Stellenbosch that might change your mind.
Yes, water tasting is a thing
Water tasting follows a similar principle to wine tasting. Instead of comparing grape varieties, aromas and tannins, participants learn to recognise the subtle differences between waters, from their mineral composition and natural carbonation to their mouthfeel.
The secret lies partly in where the water comes from. As water moves through rock and soil, it can pick up naturally occurring minerals, including calcium, magnesium and sodium. The amounts and combination of these minerals influence its taste. Carbonation also changes the experience, affecting everything from the sensation of the bubbles to how the water feels on your tongue.
Some waters can seem light and crisp, while others have a fuller mouthfeel or a subtle mineral finish. These distinctions can be delicate, but tasting different waters alongside one another makes them easier to recognise.
It’s a reminder that even something as familiar as a glass of water can tell a story about the landscape it comes from.
Where to try water tasting in South Africa
At present, one of the standout places to experience guided fine-water tasting in South Africa is in Stellenbosch, where a dedicated tasting room offers a different take on the Cape Winelands’ traditional tasting experiences.
The Library at Lanzerac Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
If you’re looking for something different to add to a Cape Winelands outing, The Library at Lanzerac Wine Estate offers a guided fine-water tasting in collaboration with The Fine Water Company.
Described by Lanzerac as South Africa’s first dedicated fine-water tasting room, the experience is led by Nico Pieterse, a certified water sommelier who introduces guests to the origins, mineral compositions and individual characteristics of each water.
The tasting includes six waters: three still and three sparkling. The selection features international varieties such as ISKLD from Denmark, Perlage from Poland, Socosani from Peru and Jermuk from Armenia, alongside South Africa’s own Mountain Falls.
Rather than simply drinking each sample, guests are guided through the sensory details, learning how a water’s source and mineral profile influence its flavour and mouthfeel. It’s an opportunity to pay attention to details that are easy to overlook when drinking water in everyday life.
The experience is also a reminder that a tasting doesn’t necessarily need to involve alcohol. For curious travellers, food enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys trying something out of the ordinary, water tasting offers a fresh way to experience the Cape Winelands.
Good to know
- Where: The Library at Lanzerac Wine Estate, Lanzerac Road, Stellenbosch.
- What’s included: Six waters, comprising three still and three sparkling varieties.
- Price: R350 per person, according to Lanzerac’s current experience listing.
- Booking: Reservations are essential.
- How to book: Visit Lanzerac’s official website for booking details.
Prices and availability can change, so confirm the details with the estate before visiting.
ALSO SEE: Beginner’s guide to wine tasting – what you need to know
