Free wine tastings in the city

What’s on offer: Wines from Darling to Hermanus, all at Judd’s Local

Last updated: Tuesday, 31 January 2023

It’s easy to fall in love with wine. It’s a conversation starter, a comforting laugh, a family dinner, a memory shared with your best friend. Wine is as engrained in Cape Town culture as the mighty gatsby or hiking Lion’s Head. This local eatery and wine shop in the heart of Gardens agrees. Every Tuesday it offers a free wine tasting experience, and gives its guests a chance to taste and learn more about wine, free of charge.

Judd’s is situated on Kloof Street. Image: Judd’s Local

DISCOVER JUDD’S LOCAL

Judd’s Local is a family-owned and run restaurant on Kloof Street, with a strong focus on wine and seasonal foods, paired with even better company. This quaint eatery is cosily situated on upper Kloof Street, past Our Local. Its two verandas, with diner-style bars, overlook the quiet street and Lion’s Head, perfect for a summer’s day. Inside is a homey atmosphere with dark blue couches, shutter windows and a newly added wine bar with a wine cellar in the making.  

Judd’s was established by Erna and Bryan Judd. Image: Judd’s Local

TASTE WINE FOR FREE

To show its love for a good bottle of wine and sense of community, Judd’s hosts a wine tasting experience every Tuesday. The best part: The tasting itself is totally free. Each week a different wine rep showcases select wines to taste and learn about. You can indulge in wines from across the Western Cape, from larger farms like Grootepost and Newton Johnson to independent labels like Vine & Co or The Garajeest. The last Tuesday of every month, owner Bryan Judd hosts the tasting himself.

It’s a great way to meet fellow wine lovers and expand your circle. Image: Lara van Zyl

Judd’s has an impressive selection of wines, available for both on- and offsite consumption. So you can buy your favourite bottle, including labels from the tasting, at the wine shop inside the eatery. 

Judd’s also hosts a jazz night every Wednesday. Image: Lara van Zyl

STAY FOR DINNER

Why drink wine on an empty stomach? Besides the impressive wine collection, Judd’s has the ultimate comfort food. Go for a classic burger, like the Sriracha Chilli or plain Cheese burger. Or try something more adventurous like the Snoek Taco. If you want to be in full wine tasting mode, the charcuterie board is a must-try, with an array of cold meats, locally sourced cheese, fresh house bread and homemade Nutella. 

Judd’s also has really great brunch options. Image: Lara van Zyl

WHEN + WHERE TO GO 

Free wine tastings available: Tuesdays; 6pm - 9pm
Judd’s Local is open: Mondays, 12pm - 11.30pm; Tuesdays to Saturdays, 11am - 11.30pm; closed on Sundays
Find it: 141 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Contact on: 064 527 1272, info@juddslocal.co.za, @juddslocal

By Lara van Zyl

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