wine & chocolate tours cape town
Gems, chocolate, and wine share a natural connection through Africa’s ancient geology. Tanzanite forms deep within Tanzania’s volcanic earth, and diamonds are shaped over millions of years by powerful geological forces — the same forces that influence the continent’s vineyards and cocoa farms. Every flavour, from a South African white Pinotage to chocolate made from Tanzanian cocoa beans, carries the signature of Africa’s mineral-rich soil and volcanic history.
At The Diamond Works Institute in Cape Town, you can explore this connection through a combined tour, wine tasting, and chocolate tasting experience. Enjoy three expressions of Pinotage, South Africa’s signature varietal, sourced from Deetlefs, one of the country’s oldest wine estates dating back to 1822 in the Western Cape.
You can also opt for an Afrikoa chocolate tasting. This African-born chocolate brand uses cocoa beans grown in Tanzania, making it the perfect pairing with tanzanite — the violet-blue gemstone found in the very same geological terrain as cacao trees.
Afrikoa is our chosen partner because they operate through Direct Trade, a transparent model that connects cocoa farmers directly with chocolate makers. By removing middlemen, both parties share responsibility, success, and value. Unlike Fair Trade, Direct Trade is not based on grants or penalties; it is built on long-term relationships, ethical sourcing, and true value sharing.
By working directly with cocoa farmers, Direct Trade ensures they earn significantly more than they would through traditional supply chains with middlemen. Farmers can support their families, invest in producing exceptional cocoa, and build long-term, sustainable livelihoods — and you can enjoy Afrikoa chocolate knowing it’s been sourced ethically and responsibly.
Celebrating African and South African heritage also means sharing the story behind Pinotage, the country’s signature grape. Created in 1925 as a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut (then known as Hermitage), Pinotage blends the finesse of Pinot Noir with the durability and bold flavours of Cinsaut. The result is a uniquely South African wine style: rich, smoky, full-bodied, and often layered with notes of dark berries, plum, coffee, and chocolate.
Pinotage thrives in South Africa’s diverse terroirs and is crafted into a wide range of wines — from powerful reds to crisp rosés and even Cape-style sparkling Pinotage. More than just a varietal, it represents the innovation and resilience of South African winemaking, offering a flavour profile that exists nowhere else in the world.
Origin Truffle Tasting – R100 pp
Chocolate with added Pinotage Experience – R150pp
Bookings are essential
FAQs
Are the tours family-friendly?
Yes, the tours are accessible to all ages (apart from the Deetlefs wine tasting). Tweens, teens, and young adults will especially enjoy the AR photo booth for dazzling selfies, and there is a safe relaxation corner with activity books, high-speed Wi-Fi, sofas, coffee, chocolate, and a laptop counter.
Do the experiences appeal to adults or kids?
The experiences are interesting for both kids and adults and are tweaked according to the audience. The exhibits are interactive, with elements like AR and VR experiences that appeal to younger ages and elements like fascinating information boards for adults.
Do I have to book, or can I just walk in?
You can walk in or book if you prefer. For bigger groups, booking is advised. Booking ahead also gives us a chance to better customise your experience.
Are the tours and experiences free?
The Signature Tanzanite and Diamond Tour, AR and VR experiences, and viewing the collections are all free (of all the free activities in Cape Town, these are the most sparkling!) Please enquire about the Deetlefs Wine Tasting and Afrikoa Chocolate Tasting, as the price is dependent on how many people and tastings are involved. Appointments with our master goldsmiths for custom jewellery design are free, and they will provide you with a quote for your pieces.
Do I have to tour the exhibits with a guide, or can I browse at my leisure?
You can browse at your leisure and/or book with one of our knowledgeable guides to show you around – they know all the fascinating stories and have in-depth knowledge about all things diamonds and tanzanite.
How do I book my tour/experience?
You can call 021 425 1970 or email [email protected]
Are you open seven days a week and on public holidays?
We are open every day from 9 am to 7 pm and on public holidays.