The Western Cape wine scene is fast becoming renowned for its art galleries as much as for its wines.

The latest addition to the long list of art venues in the winelands is the recently opened gallery at Kanonkop, the world-famous wine estate located at the foot of the Simonsberg outside Stellenbosch.

The Kanonkop Gallery houses a comprehensive and eclectic collection of paintings, sculptures and ceramics by both well-known and exciting new South African artists.

Artists whose works are exhibited include Frans Claerhout, Hannetjie de Clerq, Jan Vermeirin, Joe Maseko, Pieter van der Westhuizen, Theo Paul Vorster and David Reade.

This Stellenbosch art gallery, which forms part of the cellar complex, offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a break from viewing artworks by sampling Kanonkop’s award-winning red wines.

According to Johann Krige, co-owner of Kanonkop with his brother Paul, art was an integral part of daily life at Kanonkop.

“My mother, Mary (daughter of former minister Paul Sauer), was a great lover of art and music and we were fortunate to grow up surrounded by many artworks in our home,” says Johann.

“But because of the work involved in setting up Kanonkop, there wasn’t much time to devote to our love of art.

“Now it’s time to include art as part of the visitor’s total experience at Kanonkop and we, along with curator Francois Grobbelaar, hope to add an extra dimension to the cellar by offering this art experience.”

Krige said the gallery also represents the changing nature of wine tourism in South Africa. “Ten years ago the visitor wanted to taste a few glasses of wine and then rush to the next estate.

Today’s visitor is looking for a broader, more aesthetic experience. We’ll see to the wine side of things, while Francois and his team will ensure that the artistic dimension offers an additional reason for visiting Kanonkop.”

Opening hours at the Kanonkop Gallery are: Monday to Friday 09h00 - 17h00; Saturday 09h00 - 14h00.

The works at the gallery are available for purchase.

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